Best attractions and places to see around Sherborne include a variety of historical sites and picturesque settlements within the scenic Cotswolds area. The region is characterized by its traditional architecture, rivers, and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore villages known for their unique charm and ancient structures, making it a notable area for places to visit near Sherborne.
Last updated: October 5, 2026
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Settlement
Showing Translation
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Sherborne.
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Beautiful village but extremely busy with tourists. There are many more beautiful villages in the region without all the people.
2
0
One of the many nice little rivers in the Cotswolds where you can walk along through quiet villages.
1
0
Beautiful old water mill that you should definitely visit, especially on days when it is less crowded with tourists.
1
0
Beautiful Cotswold village with, among other things, a local art gallery, pub and manor. Most visitors, however, will come for the magnificent old watermill. Worthwhile and, despite the tourists, considerably quieter than the nearby Bourton-on-the-Water.
2
0
In the case of a "market cross," as we encounter here again, one would have to ask the fundamental question of whether it is actually primarily a small sacred monument—as its cross shape suggests—or whether it is more of a secular object. In times long past, such a cross—unlike classic wayside crosses or field crosses—was only allowed to be erected if the corresponding locality also possessed so-called "market rights"—that is, if it had been granted them by the local ruler.
1
0
In the middle of a small green area within the village, a cross rises atop a tall stone shaft. However, as hikers notice upon approach, this is by no means a small sacred monument in the sense of the wayside crosses common in some regions. Rather, this monument, like those found in many villages, is dedicated to the memory of the victims of war and tyranny.
2
0
Yes, several attractions in the Sherborne area are great for families. Bourton-on-the-Water village, often called the 'Venice of the Cotswolds', offers charming bridges and shops, including the Dragonfly Maze and The Model Village. Lower Slaughter and The Old Mill, Lower Slaughter, with its museum and riverside cafe, are also popular choices for all ages. Additionally, Arlington Row in Bibury is a picturesque spot that families enjoy.
The region around Sherborne is rich in history. You can explore The Old Mill, Lower Slaughter, which sits on a site dating back to the Domesday Book in 1086 and now houses a museum. Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross, a medieval structure, reminds visitors of the town's market history. The charming villages of Bourton-on-the-Water and Lower Slaughter also boast historical significance with their traditional architecture and ancient origins.
Yes, some attractions offer wheelchair accessibility. Bourton-on-the-Water village is noted for being wheelchair-friendly, allowing visitors to enjoy its picturesque setting. The Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross area is also generally accessible.
Many of the popular spots have cafes or nearby eateries. The Old Mill in Lower Slaughter features a lovely riverside cafe. The village of Bourton-on-the-Water is known for its many nice little shops and cafes. Similarly, Lower Slaughter also has a cozy cafe in its former watermill. Stow-on-the-Wold Market Cross is surrounded by plenty of choices for coffee, tea, or a meal.
The area around Sherborne offers various outdoor activities, particularly cycling and running. You can find numerous routes for touring bicycles and road cycling, often passing through charming villages and scenic landscapes. For specific routes and details, explore the Cycling around Sherborne and Road Cycling Routes around Sherborne guides. There are also many running trails available, detailed in the Running Trails around Sherborne guide.
Yes, the Sherborne area is excellent for walks and running. You can find moderate running loops like the 'Great Rissington & Great Barrington running loop' or the 'Sherborne Village Shop and Deli loop'. For more options, including routes that connect villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Lower Slaughter, check out the Running Trails around Sherborne guide. Many cycling routes also offer scenic paths suitable for walking.
Bourton-on-the-Water village is an archetypal Cotswold village renowned for its pretty cottages, honey-coloured brick houses, and delightful arched bridges spanning the River Windrush. Its unique charm has earned it the nickname 'Venice of the Cotswolds'. Visitors enjoy its many shops, the Dragonfly Maze, and The Model Village.
Lower Slaughter is a picturesque village situated on the River Eye, which flows directly through its center. It's celebrated for its unique charm, traditional architecture, and the historic Old Mill, which now houses a museum, shop, and riverside cafe.
Arlington Row in Bibury is a nationally notable architectural conservation area, famous for its row of 17th-century weavers' cottages. These iconic cottages, overlooking the tranquil River Coln, contribute to Bibury's reputation as one of the most beautiful villages in the UK and are even depicted on the inside cover of some British passports.
Visitors consistently praise the unique charm and picturesque beauty of the villages, particularly the traditional Cotswold architecture and the serene river settings. The historical significance of sites like The Old Mill and the vibrant atmosphere of market towns are also highly appreciated. The area's appeal is reflected in over 600 upvotes and more than 200 photos contributed by the komoot community.
The entire region offers scenic beauty, with many villages themselves acting as viewpoints. Bourton-on-the-Water village and Lower Slaughter are particularly noted for their picturesque settings along the River Windrush and River Eye, respectively. The rolling hills and traditional settlements of the Cotswolds provide numerous opportunities for enjoying the landscape.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: