Top 4 Lakes around Trent

Sherborne Castle & Gardens, often called the "New Castle," was built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594 after he decided the neighboring 12th-century ruins were a bit too "medieval chic" for his tastes. Today, it remains the private home of the Wingfield Digby family but is open to those who want to see how the other half lived during the Tudor and Georgian eras. ​The Castle Interior ​The house is a grand H-shaped mansion that has managed to hoard four centuries of high-end decor. It’s essentially a very large, very expensive time capsule. ​The State Rooms: Features a blend of Tudor architecture and 18th-century "upgrades," including ornate white marble fireplaces and Georgian sash windows. ​Art & Porcelain: The walls are lined with nationally important collections of fine art and furniture that make a modern IKEA catalog look deeply upsetting. ​The Family Museum: Located in the cellars, this museum covers the castle’s "Great Stories," including Raleigh’s local legacy and the 1753 transformation of the grounds.

Sherborne is so fancy it has "spare" castles. Sherborne Old Castle started as a 12th-century fortified palace for a bishop who clearly valued "defense" over "patience." Fast forward to 1592, and Sir Walter Raleigh moves in. He tried to modernize the drafty ruins but eventually gave up, presumably after realizing medieval plumbing is just a hole in a wall. ​He built Sherborne New Castle nearby—a chic Elizabethan mansion. During the Civil War, Parliament got annoyed and "slighted" (read: blew up) the Old Castle. Now, the ruins serve as a romantic backdrop for the New Castle’s "Capability" Brown gardens.

Set in the rolling hills of the Somerset and Dorset border. There are lots of pretty wildflowers and great views across the lovely blue waters, which attract a wide variety of butterflies such as Small Skipper and Marble White.

Comprising of five distinct zones, the park boasts a diverse array of landscapes and feautres. From the bustling pathways and water routes of Ninesprings to the Riverside walk, where the tranquil ambiance of the woods embraces you, allowing you to escape the urban bustle and wander alongside the meandering path of the River Yeo.

Once the former home of Sir Walter Raleigh, Sherborne "New" Castle is an ideal place to visit while on a hike around Sherborne. The mansion dates back to the 16th century, while Sherborne Old Castle dates back to the 12th century. Open every day, the Castle and gardens also hold events throughout the year. https://www.sherbornecastle.com/

Good atmosphere, scenery and facilities (picnic area and loos)

Excellent gravel either way! Technically no visitors welcome, however, anglers were friendly and it seems fine to stop for a sandwich and a drink in the car park. Best to keep the noise down to a minimum and stay within the car park only.

Built in 1955 Sutton Bingham reservoir is managed by Wessex Water. It's a popular fishing and walking destination and a pretty spot for a stop off while riding around central Dorset. There is a public toilet and bike racks in the car park.