Dorset Group visit to Sherborne Almshouses and Abbey

Event details

Friday 9 May 3.30 - 6.30pm

Join the Dorset Group for a guided tour of the Abbey buildings followed by a visit to the adjacent Almshouses.

We will meet in the newly opened Almsouse tea rooms where you can purchase refreshment.

The first part of our visit will be to the Abbey where guides will explain the evolution of the building we see today.

From there we will visit the Almshouses of St John the Baptist and St John the Evangelist. We will be lead by Larry Burke, 25 years a trustee of the building. We will learn about the history of the almshouse and the practicalities and challenges of using this Grade I listed building together with plans for the future.

We will be joined by Barry Brock and Tony White who have researched the roof structure and recently published “The Almshouse of SS.John, Sherbourne – a preliminary exploration of the roof”. They will discuss their research. 

The Almshouse was built in the 15th century for 12 poor men and four poor women and was expanded in the Victorian period.

The Abbey has ancient and monastic origins and is perhaps now best known for its impressive Perpendicular features and fan vaulting.

How to get there

Sherborne Abbey and Almshouses 
Trendle Street 
Sherborne 
DT9 3NT 
 
Please note parking is not available on site. There is a short stay/long stay car park called Culverhayes (DT9 3ED) a couple of minutes' walk from The Abbey. 

Accessibility

There are stairs and steps within the almshouse.

If you have any requirements to assist access these can be accommodated if known in advance.

Unfortunately it is not possible to access the roof space.

Parking is not available on site .
There is a short stay/long stay car park called Culverhayes (DT9 3ED) a couple of minutes walk for The Abbey.

Toilets are within the Almshouse tea room (non in The Abbey)

Anything we can do to make this event more accessible for you? Please email membership@spab.org.uk.

We may take photos or videos at this event to be used in future promotion, including in print and online.

All bookings are subject to our Terms and Conditions.

Photo credit: St Johns’ Almshouse and Sherborne Abbey - Carole Paton