A Complete Campervan Road Trip Guide to Charming Sherborne
Read Time: About 17 minutes
Sherborne Castle
Hello, and welcome to this the start and the first part of an exciting campervan road trip through Dorset. In this guide, we will make our way to the picture-perfect town of Sherborne, arguably one of the most attractive towns in England. Fall in love with a charming, honey-coloured town, home to rich history and heritage. Home to two castles, one romantic ruin and gorgeous castle grounds. There’s plenty to see and do here and an impressive array of beautiful buildings that really give the town a charming atmosphere creates a vision of how the town would have looked many years ago. Tucked in the green valleys and quiet wooded hills, Sherborne offers a wealth of attractions ranging from historic landmarks to picturesque walks. There’s plenty to explore.
If you're planning a campervan road trip to Dorset and wondering what your itinerary should look like, why not use our guide to create your road trip, jam-packed with the best Dorset adventures? We'll list the best things to do in the county, the best campsites in Dorset and the best places to hire campervans. Use this first step in our itinerary as inspiration for your campervan road trip through Dorset.
- Things to Do in Sherborne
- Sherborne Camping
- Campsites at Sherborne, Dorset
- Tent Camping at Sherborne
- Caravan Camping at Sherborne
- Sherborne Camping Cabins
- Campervan at Sherborne Price
- Campervan at Sherborne Dorset
- From Sherborne to Shaftesbury in a Campervan!
Things to Do in Sherborne
Start with a fresh, hearty breakfast, either at your campsite courtesy of a barbecue or head into town to explore a range of cafes and restaurants offering a wide range of delicious breakfast dishes. Work off your meal with a stroll around the town to soak in the stunning architecture, including the Almshouse of St. John, which stands at the entrance to Sherborne Abbey Close. The almshouse is a historic charity house that has provided shelter for people in need since the 15th century. If you're on a budget, explore free-to-visit attractions like the town's impressive Abbey Church, often touted as the 'cathedral of Dorset', featuring a stunning fan-vaulted ceiling made of stone. It is a sight to behold and is open throughout the year from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm. In the heart of the town, Sherborne Museum is free to visit and exhibits archaeological finds, local artefacts and arts.
A quick look at the reviews for Riverside Lakes will hearten a camper's heart and make one want to rumble over as soon as the weekend or school holidays are in session.
Stroll through the charming high street of Sherborne, Cheap Street, lined with independent shops, boutiques, and stunning traditional storefronts. Window shop, browse unique offerings, and enjoy the town's character, perhaps stopping for a pint or heading back to your campsite with a hidden gem. Pack a hamper with your favourite snacks and explore Sherborne's outdoor spaces for a breath of fresh air. From the serene Paddock Gardens and the Pulieu Meadow, plus the stunning water features at Pageant Gardens, plenty of green spaces are ideal to stretch out, unwind and reconnect with nature. Perhaps sign up for a guided tour with Sherborne Walks for more greenery to learn more about the town's tales and intriguing residents. We also recommend the Yeo River Walk, a scenic trail along the River Yeo meandering through quiet countryside and lush woodland.
No trip to Sherborne is quite complete without exploring its stunning castles. Depending on time constraints, you may want to explore one fortress, but try to squeeze in a stop at both. Sherborne Old Castle, managed by English Heritage, was constructed in the 12th century and acquired by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1592. The castle was ordered to be destroyed by Parliament following severe damage during the Civil War. The crumbling remains stand tall and proud, whispering stories of former inhabitants and wars. Head over to the Sherborne Museum to see what the castle looked like in all its glory. Sherborne Castle and Gardens, the newer of the town's castles, rests on the grounds of a former hunting lodge and has remained in the Digby family since 1617. Explore the castle's excellent furniture, porcelain, and picture collections and learn about its fascinating history.
After all that sightseeing, you'll need something scrumptious to end the day on a high note. Wind down under the stars around a crackling campfire with food courtesy of the town's many restaurants, or fire up the grill and sizzle your snacks over the coals. If you're too tired to think of washing up, let someone else cook - find a cosy pub or a well-rated restaurant and sit down to a delicious meal. Explore Sherborne's charming streets and historic attractions with convenient campervan hire Dorset services that let you travel at your own pace.
Sherborne Camping
Sherborne Castle Grounds. Mr Eugene Birchall
Sherborne is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, with rolling hills, lush meadows, and beautiful woodlands. Camping in Sherborne is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature while exploring the historic charm of Sherborne Old Castle and Sherborne Castle. Nearby, the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fab base for a day out with the family, where you can collect fossils, explore coastal walks, and admire breathtaking sea views. For those seeking alternative locations, campsites in Bristol provide another excellent option with urban conveniences while still offering easy access to countryside adventures. The surrounding area brims with outdoor opportunities, and many campsites in Sherborne cater to families, offering amenities like playgrounds, picnic areas, and even organised activities for children. Our campsites in Sherborne are ideal for a fulfilling outdoor experience. Vist our campsites page for more campsites in UK.
Experience a picturesque camping retreat in the heart of Dorset with our campsites in Sherborne. We recommend finding campsites in Poyntington, Longburton, and Castleton, all fantastic locations for exploring Sherborne and the long list of Dorset’s attractions. Set up camp in the quiet countryside or park by the ocean and enjoy the freedom to wander from your pitch to a golden sand beach in minutes. With excellent attractions like Sherborne Castle and the shimmering Yeo River nearby, there are plenty of scenic places to set up camp and unwind. Our campsites in Sherborne are ideal for embracing nature, big skies, and stunning vistas.
Camping in Dorset is a truly enchanting way to reconnect with nature. Rumble past rolling hills and stunning coastlines that set the stage for memorable holidays and unforgettable adventures. Wake up to the gentle sound of the waves lapping the shore at a seaside campsite near famous attractions like Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. Follow serene coastal paths or head inland for a countryside camping experience, pitching your tent near the sleepy village of Sherborne. Wander through magnificent gardens and uncover the town’s historical charm. Camping in around Dorset is a great way to blend comfortable and cost-effective lodgings with unrivalled exploration while enjoying the thrills of campfires, starry nights and tranquil mornings.
Countryside stays are the order of the day at our campsites in Poyntington, a serene village surrounded by idyllic countryside, where undulating fields and charming landscapes create stunning backdrops for romantic retreats. Pitch your tent or park your camper in a tranquil corner, perhaps under the speckled shade of a leafy tree, and wake up to the gentle rustling of leaves and the unrivalled scent of fresh countryside air. Discover the lush grounds of charming gardens like Poyntington Estate, skip through pretty local woodlands, and savour the joy of outdoor living with the thrills of Dorset’s natural and historical treasures, all within easy driving distance. We currently list 430 campsites within 30 miles of Poyntington, and offer more campsites in Templecombe, campsites in Yeovil, campsites in Wincanton, campsites in Castle Cary and campsites in Chilthorne Domer.
Riverside Paddock Camping Site is a green and peaceful campsite surrounded by beautiful scenery. The site is ideal for guests who enjoy adult-only camping spaces. devoid of rambunctious youngsters and wailing toddlers.
Lovey Longburton is a quiet village hidden amid swathes of green countryside in the heart of Dorset, creating a tranquil and lush space with unrivalled natural beauty and plenty of lovely campsites in Longburton. Set up your tent in this idyllic village and immerse yourself in the green setting, listening to the calls of birds and other wildlife echoing across the lush landscape. Stop at local farms to restock on fresh produce and meats to sizzle over the grill, or head out for quiet picnics in picturesque meadows. Nearby attractions like the famous Sherborne Castle and the stunning village of Cerne Abbas, with its iconic giant chalk figure and charming streets, are just some of the exciting Dorset attractions nearby. We list 427 campsites within 30 miles of Longburton, and offer more campsites in sturminster newton, campsites in Christchurch and campsites in Bournemouth.
Set up camp within England's quintessential countryside scenery at our campsites in Castleton, and wake up to sweeping views of rolling fields and wildlife-packed woodlands in the charming village of Castleton. Savour a blend of untamed beauty and quaint rural charm as you rumble through the pastoral scenery, exploring the stunning architecture of Longburton's historic churches, or get lost along the walking trails and thriving wildlife of the nearby Stour Valley Nature Reserve. A short drive takes us into the market town of Sherborne, famed for its majestic abbey, enchanting castle, and rich history. Fall in love with the simple pleasures of starlit nights around the campfire with our selection of 428 campsites within 30 miles of Castleton. We also have campsites in Yetminster and campsites in South Barrow.
Campsites at Sherborne, Dorset
If you’d like us to make planning an itinerary to Sherborne all the more easier, why not have a peek at our campsites recommendations below? We’ve picked the best rated, most scenic yet well-placed camping locations in Sherborne, and recommend staying at Wyndham Farm in Gillingham, Little Rodmore Camping in Sturminster Newton, and Woodfrys Farm Campsite in Shaftesbury. These campsites are peaceful, spacious and well-equipped to welcome both tents and touring vehicles. Read on to see if these campsites make your list.
Wyndham Farm in Gillingham
Wyndham Farm, Gillingham
Wyndham Farm is a certificated location in Dorset and a stunning five-van site for Caravan and Motorhome Club members. The site is level, well-drained, and rests approximately 2 miles from the A303, creating an excellent base for extended stays and overnight stops. The site has pitches on gravel with a grass area for setting up awnings and other equipment next to the plots. Explore nearby attractions like National Trust property at Stourhead, the famous Gold Hill and buzzing Shaftesbury. The cities of Bath and Salisbury are a reasonable drive away. However, there’s no need to rush about. Sit back and admire the lovely views of the chalk downlands from your spacious, uncrowded campsite.
Little Rodmore Camping in Sturminster Newton
Little Rodmore Camping, Sturminster Newton
If you prefer nearly wild camping overcrowded parks with evening entertainment, you’ll love kicking back at Little Rodmore Camping in the heart of Blackmore Vale in Dorset. The site is an easy forty-minute drive from Weymouth and Osmington beaches along the Jurassic Coast and welcomes campers to enjoy sunny days on grassy meadows in the summertime. The pitches are set in the middle of several lush fields and rest on a peaceful family farm, with a friendly team to assist with questions about the campsite and the local area. There are no electric metres, and the site only welcomes tents and campervans measuring no more than 6 metres, creating a wonderfully uncrowded and quiet camping setting with a communal fridge, composting toilet, chemical disposal and charging facilities. Barbecues and campfires are allowed, and pets are welcome.
Woodfrys Farm Campsite in Shaftesbury
Woodfrys Farm Campsite, Shaftesbury
It’s all about guilt-free camping at Woodfrys Farm Campsite, an eco-friendly camping space that offers unforgettable nature escapes. Set alongside a sparkling lake, this small 25-acre smallholding rests just outside Shaftesbury. It is an ideal retreat after exploring Salisbury and the Jurassic Coast, just an hour’s drive away. Owners Hannah and Liam are a cheery team who are often praised for being friendly and welcoming, and their kids are your guide for all things related to camping and local attractions. Sit back and let out a sigh of contentment from your peaceful spot at the base at Melbury Hill, and listen to the sounds of wild animals who visit the chalk river nearby. The site has a food shop, welcomes barbecues and campfires on-site, and boasts a-friendly amenities, like handmade compost toilets and eco toiletries.
Tent Camping at Sherborne
Tent camping in Sherborne is one the best ways to get as close as possible to nature whilst enjoying protection from the elements. If you’re in need of a tent friendly campsite in Dorset, consider a stay at Lyons Gate Holiday Park. This peaceful woodland site rests in the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and blends quiet camping stays with the freedom to walk from your pitch to one of four well-stocked fishing lakes in mere minutes. The Jurassic Coast beaches are approximately 30 minutes away, and Dorchester is an easy 20-minute drive. Indulge in fishing on your holiday, and try catching tench, chub, perch, roach, rudd or 20-pound carp. The site has grass and hardstanding bases for tents and touring vehicles with lake and countryside views. Barbecues are encouraged, and pets are most welcome to tag along.
Purbeck Glamping is a calm and welcoming site enjoying a relaxed yet well-placed position in Dorset. The site is maintained to a high standard.
The Mason’s Arms is a lovely pub site with self-catering abides and camping pitches for tents, motorhomes and caravans. Pitches are generously spaced and set away from the road, overlooking lush open fields. Pitch a tent or park your tourer on one of 14 summer pitches, 8 with electric metres and a spacious hardstanding area. Guests share access to a unisex shower block with all the expected facilities, including hairdryers, an ironing board, and a washing-up area. One of the perks of camping here is the freedom to enjoy a delicious pub meal and imbibe freely, staggering safely to your pitch in a few minutes. A handy farm shop in the village makes it easy to sort nibbles and snacks throughout your stay.
Caravan Camping at Sherborne
Sherborne. Alexeltome
Caravanners, fret not, as we haven’t forgotten you. You’ll need a roomy pitch with all the expected amenities, and we have the best spots for you. Henstridge Golf and Leisure is a caravan friendly campsite in Dorset, resting in the scenic Blackmoor Vale. Set an easy 15-minute drive from Shaftesbury and 20 from Sherborne, this fab site has all the amenities for a relaxing holiday. A stunning fishing lake, a nine-hole golf course, and a cracking clubhouse with a bar and restaurant exist. You may even postpone sightseeing to unwind on site, enjoying a range of comforts without the need to step outside the gates. Caravans, campervans, motorhomes and tents are all welcome on a blend of grass or gravel pitches with optional electric connections. Standard amenities are available, and pets are welcome to tag along.
Cosy up in your caravan at Cherry Cottage, a Caravan and Motorhome Club Certificated Location accepting just five caravans or motorhomes. Set on the outskirts of Middlemarch, the campsite is well-placed for exploring central Dorset and the beautiful town of Sherborne. Wander amid the countryside made famous in Thomas Hardy novels, dig your toes in the sand at the beaches along the Dorset coastline, sit back on your spacious pitch at Cherry Cottage, and admire sweeping views over the countryside and farmland. The site is open throughout the year and offers two hardstanding plots plus three lawn pitches. Amenities include toilets, chemical disposal, a laundry room, a communal fridge with freezer and free Wi-Fi.
Sherborne Camping Cabins
Fancy shelter from the chilly winters? Or you may enjoy unwinding in the cosy comfort of a camping pod near sherborne, with electricity and a few home comforts. Check out Rexes Hollow, a stunning site just two miles from Yeovil, with cosy, simple pods in a setting ideal for walks and bike rides. The coast is a quick 40-minute drive away, and attractions like Cerne Abbas Giant are just 20 minutes away by car. Get out and about, enjoying local scenery along a network of public footpaths and cycle routes, with stunning views and cosy pubs scattered in lush nooks, offering a welcome respite on balmy summer afternoons. There’s excellent fishing nearby, a climbing and golf course in town, and several riding centres for those who fancy exploring the area on horseback. The pods offer plenty of room around the abode for stretching out and admiring the views, and guests have happily confirmed that the pods receive excellent 4G reception.
Your friends will be green with envy when they hear about your memorable holiday at Green Valley Yurts, a lovely glamping space tucked deep in the verdant heart of the stunning Cerne Valley in Dorset. The campsite rests on a small, peaceful organic arable farm, and invites guests to enjoy the unrivalled peace and breathtaking views within the heart of the South Downs.
Campervan at Sherborne Price
How much will a campervan rental cost for a road trip through Sherborne? There are a few factors to consider that will affect the overall charge of your campervan rental in Sherborne. If you have a motorhome or campervan, consider hiring out on Camperbug and earn when you’re not using your vehicle. For our readers who need a home on wheels, we recommend factoring in the duration of your holiday, the type of motorhome or campervan you want to hire, and the season of hire. Bookings during off-peak seasons are cheaper, so try to fit your holiday between November and April. The larger, more decked-out campervans and motorhomes tend to be more expensive. We suggest booking a simple, budget-friendly campervan with minimal frills, especially if you plan to travel during the warmer months and do not require heating. Be sure to ask our private campervan owners if insurance is included in your hire fee, and ensure you are eligible for the policy. Our campervans in Sherborne start as low as £80 per night and come in various makes, ranging from the classic VW T2 to the more modern T6 models.
Campervan at Sherborne Dorset
Sherborne Castle Lake. Debs-Eye
Hire a campervan in Dorset and easily explore a range of stunning attractions and sceneries, soaking in the sights and sounds at your pace. With a campervan hire, you can easily traverse the countryside to the coastline, pottering about in charming towns and stopping to soak in the scenery or enjoy a picnic. Imagine waking up to the gorgeous views of Lulworth Cove, hitting the open road to admire the iconic Durdle Door, and then winding down with a quiet night at a countryside campsite near Sherborne. Campervan travel provides the freedom to uncover hidden gems and the comfort of a mobile home, making it easy and comfortable to unwind even on the road.
You've already planned your itinerary, and now it's time to look into hiring a campervan for your Dorset road trip. Speak to private campervan owners in Christchurch, Yetminster, and Oborne. These locations are well-placed for exploring Sherborne and are ideal spots for camping, making it easy for our readers to plan a holiday in one go. Additionally, campervan hire Bristol offers excellent vehicle options with easy motorway access to reach Dorset's stunning countryside and historic towns. Book a campervan by the coastline or find one for hire in the countryside and rumble through Sherborne, stopping to admire the scenery and explore its varied attractions.
Age: 25-70
Travel: Local Area Only
Gearbox: Manual
Welcome to Carlos, the camper. He is younger than he looks. Enjoy the character and charm of a classic VW camper, and take yourself back to the carefree days of the 70s.
Fall in love with the picturesque settings in Yetminster and uncover a range of exciting attractions around this charming Dorset village. Speak to private campervan owners and book the perfect home on wheels, complete with all the comforts and conveniences of a hotel and the freedom to explore ever-changing views. Stop at Yetminster Abbey, home to fascinating architecture and lush grounds. Hop in your campervan for hire in Yetminster and explore the lush landscapes of Yeovil Country Park, or sit down for a picnic beside the River Yeo. We have 35 campervans and motorhomes within 60 miles of Yetminster, and also list campervans for hire in Chilthorne Domer, campervans for hire in beaminster, campervans for hire in Godmanstone, campervans for hire in Crewkerne and campervans for hire in Martock.
Hire a campervan in Christchurch and uncover a beautiful coastal town with exciting attractions and activities. Our campervans in Christchurch are ideal for quiet seaside escapes, and a campervan provides the flexibility to unwind or explore when the mood arises. Check out local attractions like the the impressive Christchurch Priory, a gem of mediaeval architecture, or potter around the serene Christchurch Harbour, a lovely location for viewsome walks and water-based activities. Lounge on pretty Mudeford Beach and soak in the sunshine or splash in the water on a refreshing swim. Immerse yourself in local beauty and history with our selection of 34 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Christchurch. We also offer campervans for hire in Bournemouth, campervans for hire in Poole, campervans for hire in Dorchester, campervans for hire in Bere Regis and campervans for hire in Preston.
Kick off your holiday in Dorset at the delightful village of Oborne, a quiet campervan hire location in picturesque surroundings and well-placed for exploring the varied attractions of Dorset. Stay close to nature in your campervan hire in Oborne, and start your holiday by visiting the historic Oborne Church, famed for its stunning architecture and quiet settings. For expansive views, head to Ham Hill Country Park and follow scenic trails, or explore the lush landscapes of the nearby village of Sherborne, another great spot for a campervan rental. Uncover Dorset’s hidden treasures with our selection of 100 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Oborne. We also have campervans for rent in Templecombe, campervans for rent in Yeovil, campervans for rent in South Barrow, campervans for rent in Wincanton, and campervans for rent in Sturminster Newton.
Age: 25-79
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
We’re excited to introduce you to our newly converted T5 VW campervan. It's equipped with everything you'll need to escape, explore, and relax.
From Sherborne to Shaftesbury in a Campervan!
And there we have it! A flexible road trip through Sherborne, complete with our pick of top campsites, campervan hire locations, a list of must-see historical attractions, and exciting outdoor activities to keep you active. Please amend our An Itinerary For A Campervan Road Trip Through Dorset to suit your holiday requirements, tastes, and travel timings. We hope we’ve made planning an itinerary to Dorset easier and look forward to adding more helpful pointers at our next stop - the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
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