What's on in Sherborne

Wondering what events or festivals are taking place in Sherborne during your visit? 

The town has a year-round events programme, so whatever time of year you visit, there’s always something to enjoy... 

From page to screen 

Sherborne has had a long association with the creative arts. Poets and writers have been visiting the town since the 18th century, but actors and more particularly film actors have also been connected to the town. 

The very popular Sherborne International Film Festival takes place every Autumn. So if you’re a film buff, you’ll find a visit during October entertaining, informing and perhaps even astonishing! 

Enjoy world-class performances by international music stars  

Sherborne is lucky enough to benefit from its own Music Festival which takes place every May and is set against the magical and mesmerising backdrop of Sherborne Abbey. You could be one of thousands of visitors each year who come to be entertained by Renaissance music to classical performances, lively jazz events and exceptional young local talent. From improvisation workshops, poetry and close harmonies to salon baroque, madrigals and classical ukulele - the Festival delivers a varied programme which truly offers something for everyone. 

The prestigious Sherborne School also hosts music events and recitals at their Music School throughout the year. In August, their annual Summer School of Music has around 30 daily concerts and if you’re a musician, you can even enrol in a course and take part in one of the performances! 

Pack Monday Fair 

The Fair is an age old annual event which takes on the first Monday after old Michaelmas Day (October 10th).

The central streets of the town are filled with visiting market traders selling food, jewellery, clothes, household goods and more.

There is also a Fun Fair and evening entertainment too.

Events at Sherborne Castle 

The Sherborne Castle Country Fair which takes place every May has a fun programme of events and country activities plus stalls and entertainment, including one of the largest Rare Breed Shows in the country. 

In July, the annual Classic and Supercars Show has 2000 classic, supercars, veteran, race, rally, American, custom, Hot Rod and special cars. Along with more than 150 trade, autojumble and craft stands plus live music, food hall and beautiful picnic areas, the show has something for all ages. 

And in the Autumn, the Autumn Colours weekend towards the end of October shows off the Capability Brown landscaped gardens in all their glory, rounded off with a bang (and a laser light show!) at the spectacular Fireworks Extravaganza in November. 

Festive favourites 

The annual Sherborne Festive Shopping Day in early December is always popular with locals and visitors. Take the opportunity to pick up a unique Christmas gift from the independent shops, indulge in some festive fayre at a local pub or see the twinkling Christmas lights which adorn the town centre. 

Sherborne Abbey hosts carol concerts as well as traditional church services and there will be festive markets in the town too! 

Encore! 

If you are looking for events on specific dates, you can use the search box to show which events are taking place during your visit. 

And if you're thinking about staying overnight, we hope our variety of accommodation options will tempt you into visiting for a short break or holiday.