“A handsome 16th century pub right opposite the Abbey. Of the four attractive guest rooms, one leads off the charming hamstone-walled courtyard. The biggest and best surprise is the food: be wowed by a tempting selection of Italian tapas dishes. A classic inn with contemporary cuisine.”

Hotel review

The magnificent sight of Sherborne’s famous Abbey, lit up at night, is reason enough to stay at this inn. Occupying a 16th century Grade II-listed, honey-stone building with bags of character, The Plume (as it’s known locally) could hardly be in a better position, but that’s not its only selling point. On the ground floor, a long, narrow room is devoted to the restaurant and bar, where an open fire, old prints and mellow wood floor boards, panelling and furniture create a traditional, cosy atmosphere. Staff are friendly and efficient, and not surprisingly the restaurant is often full and buzzy. The stand-out food is the real draw. On an imaginative, balanced menu, you might find such irresistible Italian small plates as fritto di funghi, duck ragu or cauliflower salad, and a number of delicious pizzette (mini pizzas). All the ingredients are seasonal and most are local. The pasta and bread are homemade, and there’s plenty of choice for vegetarians and vegans. The same dishes are served outside in the pretty courtyard garden when the weather’s warm enough. As for drinks, in addition to classic pub tipples, The Plume stocks more than 60 Italian wines.

Individually and classically decorated in soothing colours, the four guest rooms are spacious, comfortable and well-priced. Upstairs, the super-king has the best view of the Abbey, while the downstairs studio room is the largest and handiest for the bar. The pub hosts regular events, such as quizzes, musical evenings and wine tastings; you might want to check the programme before you book.

Leonie Glass
Leonie Glass Review published: 31/10/2018

Recommended for

  • Foodies

    • For many the food is the star of the show here. Delicious Italian small plates cuisine created from local, seasonal produce
  • Families

    • This is a particularly family friendly pub — all rooms can easily accommodate children on sofa beds
  • Local exploring

    • Just a stone's throw from Sherborne Abbey and a great location for exploring further afield
  • Pet friendly

    • All rooms are dog friendly with a maximum of two per room (nightly charge applies)
  • Sights nearby

    • Across the road from Sherborne Abbey and Sherborne Castle is a stroll away
  • Full of character

    • The property has many period features and is a listed building
  • Minimum Stay

    • Two night min stay except Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
  • Family Suites

    • The courtyard suite can easily accommodate a family of five
  • Other Activities

    • Sherborne has an annual literary festival every October
  • Views

    • One guest room has stunning views over Sherborne Abbey
  • Local markets

    • Sherborne Market runs from April to November
  • Restaurant

    • The restaurant serves Italian small plates
  • Historic

    • The pub dates back to the 16th century
  • Great walks

    • There is lovely walking from the door
  • Child friendly

  • Traditional

  • Charming

  • Less £

  • Inn

Facilities

  • Rooms

    4 rooms in this hotel
  • Pet friendly

    All rooms are dog friendly with a maximum of two per room (nightly charge applies)
  • Minimum Stay

    Two night min stay except Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays
  • Family Suites

    The courtyard suite can easily accommodate a family of five
  • Views

    One guest room has stunning views over Sherborne Abbey
  • Parking

    Free on site parking — one space for each room
  • Restaurant

    The restaurant serves Italian small plates
  • Bar

  • Walking distance restaurants

  • Satellite / Cable TV

  • Child friendly

Activities

  • Sights nearby

    • Across the road from Sherborne Abbey and Sherborne Castle is a stroll away
  • Other Activities

    • Sherborne has an annual literary festival every October
  • Local markets

    • Sherborne Market runs from April to November
  • Great walks

    • There is lovely walking from the door

Map & Location

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.