Summer is the perfect time to explore Sherborne and the Dorset countryside that surrounds it. From grand castle gardens and golden coastline to family days out and quiet historic villages, there’s plenty to fill a stay at The Hillbrook — whatever pace you’re looking for.

We’ve picked out a few of our favourite ways to spend a summer day nearby, all within easy reach of the hotel.

Sherborne Castle & Gardens

Best for: History and gardens | Getting there: A short walk from The Hillbrook

Just moments from the hotel, Sherborne Castle is the perfect summer outing when you don’t want to travel far. Originally built by Sir Walter Raleigh, the castle sits within 42 acres of “Capability” Brown landscaped grounds, with sweeping lawns, a lake and mature specimen trees to wander through.

Reduced-price tickets are available this summer as part of the Great British Summer Savings scheme, making it a great value day out — check the castle’s website for current dates before you visit.

Stourhead Gardens

Best for: A full day out | Getting there: A short, scenic drive from The Hillbrook

For a bigger garden adventure, Stourhead is hard to beat.

This National Trust landscape unfolds around a lake dotted with classical temples, grottoes and follies, with woodland paths that change character at every turn. It’s the sort of place that rewards slow exploring — pack a picnic and make a day of it.

Weymouth Beach

Best for: Classic seaside fun | Getting there: An easy drive from The Hillbrook

When the sun’s out, Weymouth delivers everything you want from a British beach day — golden sand, calm safe swimming and a lively promenade with plenty of ice cream stops along the way.

It’s a firm favourite with families and a lovely way to spend an afternoon on the Jurassic Coast.

Lyme Regis

Best for: A harbour town day trip | Getting there: An easy drive from The Hillbrook

Fossils, film locations and sea-view cafés — Lyme Regis is the Jurassic Coast at its most charming.

Wander along the historic Cobb harbour wall, browse the independent shops, or try your hand at fossil hunting on the beach before a leisurely lunch overlooking the water.

Moors Valley Country Park

Best for: Families | Getting there: An easy drive from The Hillbrook

With a treetop adventure trail, a miniature steam railway and miles of forest cycling and walking paths, Moors Valley is a brilliant option for a full family day out.

There’s plenty of space to let the kids run off energy while the grown-ups enjoy the woodland scenery.

Monkey World

Best for: Families | Getting there: Within easy reach of The Hillbrook

Home to rescued chimpanzees, orangutans and monkeys living in naturalistic habitats, Monkey World is a genuinely uplifting day out for animal lovers of all ages, and a favourite with families staying at The Hillbrook.

Make a Stay of It

With so many events and things to do in Sherborne and Dorset this summer, it’s worth turning your day trip into more than just a day trip.

At The Hillbrook, you’ve got a quiet, comfortable base to return to after a day exploring the coast, gardens or countryside — close enough to slip into the events, but tucked away in property to unwind properly afterwards.

Whether you’re here for a festival weekend or a relaxed countryside break, it’s a lovely place to settle in.