The Conduit Market Cross
A 16th-century hexagonal structure, once a monks' washhouse, now a charming centerpiece in Sherborne's market square.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Enjoy the market atmosphere
The Conduit Market Cross
Best Time
Enjoy the market atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century hexagonal structure, once a monks' washhouse, now a charming centerpiece in Sherborne's market square.
"A very pretty and interesting feature of Cheap Street, hosting seasonal displays."
📸 Snap a Photo
The Conduit is a picturesque spot, especially with seasonal displays. Great for a quick photo op!
🚶♀️ Stroll Cheap Street
Combine your visit with a walk down Cheap Street for shopping and admiring architecture.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Conduit Market Cross
Market Square, Sherborne
A distinctive hexagonal 16th-century structure, once a monks' washhouse, now a charming centerpiece.
Cheap Street Charm
Adjacent to Market Square
Wander through this picturesque street with its varied shops and beautiful historic buildings.
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Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse into History
Explore Beyond the Cross
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Exploring Dorset
📸 Snap a Photo
The Conduit is a picturesque spot, especially with seasonal displays. Great for a quick photo op!
🚶♀️ Stroll Cheap Street
Combine your visit with a walk down Cheap Street for shopping and admiring architecture.
🕰️ Historical Context
Learn about its past as a monks' washhouse and water supply for a richer visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Snap a Photo
The Conduit is a picturesque spot, especially with seasonal displays. Great for a quick photo op!
🚶♀️ Stroll Cheap Street
Combine your visit with a walk down Cheap Street for shopping and admiring architecture.
🕰️ Historical Context
Learn about its past as a monks' washhouse and water supply for a richer visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find The Conduit Market Cross a distinctive and historically interesting 16th-century structure, appreciated for its role as a centerpiece and its past as a monks' washhouse. Its location on Cheap Street, known for its shops and attractive buildings, adds to the appeal of the area.
"Distinctive 16th century structure, originally used for washing by Benedictine monks at Sherborne Abbey. It later served a variety of different purposes, and today simply provides shelter from the elements and makes an attractive centerpiece for the market square. Take a walk up Cheap Street while here, it has a good variety of shops and some very attractive buildings."
Andrew Thomas
"The Conduit The hexagonal 16th-century structure originally stood in the north cloisters of the Abbey, where it was used as the monks' washhouse. It was moved to this site. in 1553 to house the monks' former water supply for the benefit of the townsfolk."
Malcolm Petfield
"This is a very pretty and interesting feature of Cheap Street. It was hosting a Christmas nativity display in December."
Tom Price
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While specific public transport routes to the immediate vicinity of The Conduit Market Cross aren't detailed in the provided information, Dorset offers various bus services. For independent travel in Dorset, researching local bus routes is recommended. E-bike tours are also an option for exploring the region.
Information on specific parking availability near The Conduit Market Cross is not provided. However, as it's located in the market square, it's likely there are public parking facilities in the vicinity of Sherborne town center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No ticket is required to view The Conduit Market Cross as it is a public structure in the market square. Entry is free.
The Conduit Market Cross is an outdoor landmark and is accessible at all times. However, shops on Cheap Street will have their own operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Today, The Conduit Market Cross serves as an attractive centerpiece for the market square, providing shelter from the elements. It also hosts seasonal displays, such as a Christmas nativity.
Originally a hexagonal 16th-century structure in the north cloisters of Sherborne Abbey, it was used as the monks' washhouse. It was moved in 1553 to provide the townsfolk with the monks' former water supply.
Adjacent to The Conduit Market Cross is Cheap Street, which offers a variety of shops and attractive buildings to explore.
📸 📸 Photography
The Conduit Market Cross is photogenic throughout the day. Consider visiting during market days for a lively atmosphere or during festive periods like Christmas for special displays.
The hexagonal structure itself is a unique subject. Capturing it with the backdrop of Cheap Street's architecture or during seasonal events like the Christmas nativity display offers distinct photo opportunities.
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Deep Dives
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The Fascinating History of The Conduit
In 1553, the Conduit was relocated to its current prominent position in the market square. This move transformed its function from a private monastic facility to a public amenity. It was repurposed to house the monks' former water supply, making this vital resource accessible to the townsfolk. This transition underscores the evolving needs of the community and the repurposing of historical structures.
Today, the Conduit stands as an attractive centerpiece, offering shelter and a focal point for the bustling market square. It continues to be a site of interest, occasionally hosting seasonal displays, such as a Christmas nativity, further weaving it into the fabric of contemporary town life. Its enduring presence offers a tangible link to Sherborne's rich past.
Exploring Cheap Street: A Complementary Experience
Beyond its commercial appeal, Cheap Street is also celebrated for its attractive buildings. The architecture along this street contributes significantly to the overall historic ambiance of Sherborne. Taking a leisurely walk here allows you to appreciate the well-preserved facades and the character of the town. It’s a perfect complement to the historical significance of the Conduit Market Cross, offering a broader picture of Sherborne’s enduring charm.
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