Sherborne Old Castle is a 12th-century fortress originally built by Roger de Caen, Bishop of Salisbury, one of the most powerful ecclesiastical figures of his age. The castle later became the celebrated home of Sir Walter Ralegh, the Elizabethan explorer and favourite of Queen Elizabeth I. During the English Civil War, it served as a powerful Royalist stronghold until Oliver Cromwell's forces besieged and captured it in 1645 after eleven days of fierce fighting. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of its great tower, chapels, and southwest gatehouse set within grounds that have become a haven for wildlife and birds, offering remarkable views across the Dorset countryside.
