Transforming Your Print Needs into Reality
Sherborne Museum is a captivating establishment situated in the heart of one of Dorset's most stunning towns. Our mission is to bring to life the rich heritage of Sherborne through our intriguing collections, making learning an enjoyable experience for all. We are a significant part of the community, offering a wide range of services designed to cater to history enthusiasts, scholars, and the generally curious.
Visiting the Museum
The museum is open to the public from April to mid-December, Tuesdays to Saturdays, from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Admission is free, and we are located at Abbey Gatehouse, Church Lane, Sherborne, DT9 3BP. We encourage our visitors to plan their visit to make the most of their time with us.
Exhibitions, Talks, and Events
Our museum offers an ever-changing roster of free exhibitions, talks, and family-friendly events. These are designed to inform, intrigue, and inspire, offering a deeper understanding of Sherborne's history and its community.
Our exhibitions range from the historical, such as the Sherborne Missal - the largest and most lavishly decorated English Service book to survive from the Middle Ages - to the personal, like the works of Mabel Frances Wickham, a much-loved art teacher in Sherborne and member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours.
Our talks cover a wide array of topics, from the development of Sherborne and the crucial role of the River Yeo, to the significance of trades such as silk manufacture and willow working. We also host family-friendly events, ensuring that learning is accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
Fairs, Festivals, and Markets
One of our main temporary exhibitions celebrates Sherborne's famous medieval street fair, Pack Monday. This exhibition is a testament to our community's rich history and the occasions when we come together in time-honoured and traditional manners.
Collections
Our museum boasts an extensive collection that spans various disciplines. Our Intangible Heritage Archives and Library house a wealth of documents and records that provide insight into Sherborne's history and the lives of its inhabitants.
Our Art collection includes works by renowned artists, while our Industrial and Social History collection showcases the evolution of industries and societies in Sherborne. Our Textiles collection is a testament to the town's rich textile history, and our Numismatics collection houses a variety of coins and currency.
Our Archaeology collection provides a glimpse into Sherborne's ancient past, and our Geology and Natural History collection features fascinating specimens from the natural world.
Visitor Testimonials
We are proud of the feedback we receive from our visitors, who often describe our museum as an "amazing hidden gem, " a "treasure, " and a "fantastic museum." We are grateful for their kind words and continue to strive towards excellence in preserving and presenting Sherborne's history.
Museum Experience
The reviews for this charming museum in Sherborne reveal a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff. The museum is free to enter, making it a unique experience for visitors. The exhibits are well-presented and bring to life the history of the town, making it an interesting place to visit, especially on a rainy day.
Display and Collections
The museum's displays are described as "plenty", "lots", and "lots to look at", showcasing a range of exhibits that are well-researched and well-preserved. The collections include historic vehicles, model steam locomotives, and even a digital copy of the Sherborne Missal.
Service and Staff
The staff are praised for being friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable, with many reviewers commenting on the volunteers' tireless work. The museum's facilities, including its cafe and outdoor spaces, are also well-regarded.
Varied Experience
While some reviewers mention that the museum is small, they also appreciate the variety of exhibits and activities on offer, including messy Monday sessions and hands-on collections. One reviewer even comments on the fun activities during the Queen's jubilee celebrations.
Minor Criticisms
A few reviewers mention that the museum is small, but most agree that it's worth visiting despite its size. One reviewer comments that there's little of interest, but notes that it's free, making it worth a quick visit.

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