The Digby (m)

Set in stunning gardens, The Digby was once a four-star hotel and was mentioned by Thomas Hardy in The Woodlanders. Regular refurbishments, including in the summer of 2018, have ensured the standard of accommodation remains high, with comfortable rooms and three separate outdoor areas.

Boys in The Digby make full use of the space around them to play, breathe and relax. This feeds body and soul, ensuring the House has a happy and mutually supportive atmosphere, not too pressured but with a strong commitment to every member achieving their potential.

The Digby’s community celebrates everyone’s achievements, regardless of their focus. Sport has always been a strong suit for the House, but academic success and outstanding ability in Music, Art or Drama are equally valued.

At heart, The Digby is concerned about the same values that underpin Sherborne’s wider community.

Boys are kind, compassionate and invested in each other. It is a place of laughter and joy, care and generosity. A wonderful place for boys to call home.
 

Housemaster Elect (January 2026): Barny Allen Barny studied Sport Science at the University of Bath before completing a Master’s degree in Strength and Conditioning at St Mary’s University, Twickenham. He went on to spend ten years working in professional rugby, holding positions with Gloucester Rugby, London Irish, and the London Broncos. During this time, he also supported the England Senior Men’s Rugby team under Martin Johnson, contributing to Autumn International campaigns and an overseas tour to Argentina. After a decade in elite sport, Barny moved into education, completing his PGCE at the University of Buckingham. He joined Sherborne Boys from Dulwich College as Head of Physical Education and is due to become Housemaster of The Digby (from January 2026), whilst continuing to teach across the PE curriculum. He coaches a range of sports and maintains a strong interest in athlete development and performance. Barny is married to Bea, and together they have three children who keep them happily busy outside school life.