Hugh Sexey, like other ambitious young men of his time, left Somerset to seek his fortune in London. In the right place at the right time his insider knowledge as a clerk in the Exchequer allowed him to build up an extensive property portfolio. The profits from this, along with his money-lending activities enabled him to amass a fortune. The pinnacle of his career came in 1603 when he was appointed an Auditor to James I. Twice married but childless, Sexey transferred his estate to Trustees to be used for charitable purposes - the Hospital in Bruton that bears his name.