A New Reason to Visit Sherborne: Art, Culture and a Town in the Spotlight

Sherborne has always been one of Dorset’s most beautiful market towns. Now there is even more reason to visit.

The town has officially been named Dorset Town of Culture 2027, recognising the extraordinary mix of creativity, heritage and community that can be found throughout Sherborne. For guests staying at Hillbrook, it means an already beautiful Dorset break is about to become even more interesting.

Sherborne Named Dorset Town of Culture 2027

The Dorset Town of Culture title will bring a year-long programme of arts, exhibitions, events and community activity to Sherborne during 2027.

The award recognises a cultural scene that has been developing across the town for some time. Historic buildings sit alongside independent galleries, makers, restaurants, festivals and creative organisations.

Dorset Council says the programme will showcase Sherborne’s cultural identity while attracting visitors and creating new opportunities for local organisations and artists.

It comes as Sherborne continues to receive national attention. The Telegraph recently highlighted the town’s combination of history, independent character, food and developing cultural life, describing it as increasingly becoming a destination in its own right.

Discover The Sherborne

One of the places driving that cultural renaissance is The Sherborne.

Set within the restored Georgian Sherborne House, this admission-free arts and cultural destination brings contemporary exhibitions together with centuries of history.

Visitors can explore galleries, discover the nationally significant Sir James Thornhill mural, wander through the terrace gardens or stop for something to eat and drink.

The house, galleries and gardens are free to enter, making it an easy addition to a day exploring the town.

A Landmark New Installation This September

From Monday 7 September 2026, The Sherborne’s gardens will become home to a major work by acclaimed British-Trinidadian artist Zak Ové.

The Invisible Man and the Masque of Blackness brings together thirteen monumental figures, each standing more than two metres tall.

The work explores themes including identity, visibility, power, resilience and belonging. It has previously been presented internationally, but its arrival in the grounds of The Sherborne will create an entirely new setting for the installation.

The figures will remain in the gardens until 6 September 2027, meaning visitors will be able to experience the work as the landscape changes through autumn, winter, spring and summer.

Admission is free and advance booking is not required.

More Things to Do in Sherborne

The Sherborne is only part of what makes the town worth exploring.

Take time to visit Sherborne Abbey, wander through the historic streets and browse the independent shops around Cheap Street. Sherborne is also home to medieval landmarks, two castles, gardens, markets, cafés and restaurants.

The compact town centre makes it particularly suited to a relaxed short break. Rather than rushing everything into an afternoon, stay for a night or two and explore at your own pace.

Make Hillbrook Your Base

After a day discovering Sherborne, return to Hillbrook and relax.

Our individually designed rooms provide a comfortable base for a Dorset escape, whether you are joining us for a weekend away or turning a midweek visit into something more memorable.

With Sherborne entering an exciting new cultural chapter and a growing programme of exhibitions and events ahead, there will be plenty of reasons to return.

Explore our latest stays and make your next visit to Sherborne a little longer.