Hestercombe, Taunton TA2 8LG
Hestercombe House & Gardens is a hidden gem tucked away in the rolling hills of Somerset, England. This breathtaking estate is a perfect escape for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat. The garden covers over 50 acres of land and is an awe-inspiring blend of formal gardens, woodland walks, and serene water features. This article will take you on a tour of the garden, highlighting its most prominent features, and provide tips on how to make the most of your visit.
History of Hestercombe House & Gardens
Hestercombe House & Gardens dates back to the 18th century when it was built for the Warre family, a prominent family of wool merchants. Over the centuries, the estate has seen numerous transformations, with the most significant one carried out by the renowned garden designer, Gertrude Jekyll, and architect, Edwin Lutyens, in the early 20th century. The duo created a masterpiece by combining Jekyll's planting skills with Lutyens' architecture, creating a garden that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
What to See at Hestercombe House & Gardens
Upon entering the garden, you are greeted with a breathtaking view of the Edwardian Formal Garden, which comprises terraces, hedges, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The garden is divided into three terraces, each with its distinct planting theme, creating a harmonious blend of colors and textures.
The Great Plat is the central terrace, and it is a masterpiece of symmetry and proportion. The planting here is in shades of green, creating a sense of tranquility and calmness. The Lower and Upper Wilder Terraces are a riot of colors, with their mixed herbaceous borders, providing a stark contrast to the Great Plat.
One of the most popular features of the garden is the Rill, a narrow water channel that runs through the garden, adding a sense of calmness and tranquility to the space. The Rill feeds into the Pear Pond, which is home to a range of aquatic plants and wildlife, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
Another must-see feature is the Victorian Shrubbery, a densely planted woodland walk with a range of trees, shrubs, and plants. The walk takes you through the heart of the garden, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Tips for Visiting Hestercombe House & Gardens
To make the most of your visit to Hestercombe House & Gardens, it is recommended that you set aside at least half a day to explore the garden fully. There is a lot to see and do, and you don't want to rush through the garden and miss out on any of its unique features.
It is also advisable to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved, especially if you plan on exploring the woodland walks. Don't forget to bring a camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the garden.
Lastly, make sure to check the Hestercombe House & Gardens website before your visit as there are often special events and exhibitions taking place, which can add an extra dimension to your visit.
Conclusion
Hestercombe House & Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Somerset, England. Its stunning Edwardian Formal Garden, serene water features, and peaceful woodland walks create a sense of tranquility and calmness that is hard to find in today's fast-paced world. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty, Hestercombe House & Gardens is a true testament to the wonders of nature and a perfect escape from the daily grind.
Hestercombe House & Gardens is a stunning estate located in Somerset, England. The estate is home to a beautiful house and expansive gardens that are sure to delight any visitor. While there is plenty to see and do on the estate itself, there are also many other places and activities nearby that are worth exploring. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best places and things to do near Hestercombe House & Gardens from a tourist perspective.
1. Taunton
Taunton is the county town of Somerset and is just a short drive from Hestercombe House & Gardens. There is plenty to see and do in Taunton, including visiting the Museum of Somerset, exploring the historic Taunton Castle, and shopping in the town centre. Taunton also has a number of restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to stop for lunch or dinner.
2. The Quantock Hills
The Quantock Hills are a range of hills located just a few miles from Hestercombe House & Gardens. The hills offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are a great place to go for a walk or a hike. There are a number of trails to choose from, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
3. Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park is a vast and beautiful area of moorland, woodland, and coastline that is just a short drive from Hestercombe House & Gardens. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the park, including walking, cycling, and horse riding. There are also a number of charming towns and villages in the park that are worth exploring.
4. Dunster Castle
Dunster Castle is a historic castle located in the village of Dunster, just a short drive from Hestercombe House & Gardens. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the castle's interior, which is filled with historic artefacts and exhibits.
5. West Somerset Railway
The West Somerset Railway is a heritage railway that runs between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead. The railway passes through some of the most beautiful countryside in Somerset and is a great way to see the area. There are a number of stations along the route, each with its own unique charm and character.
6. Cheddar Gorge
Cheddar Gorge is a spectacular natural landmark that is just a short drive from Hestercombe House & Gardens. The gorge is home to some of the most impressive limestone cliffs in the country and is a popular destination for climbers and hikers. Visitors can also explore the many caves and caverns in the area.
7. Glastonbury Tor
Glastonbury Tor is a hill located in the town of Glastonbury, just a short drive from Hestercombe House & Gardens. The tor is steeped in myth and legend and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can climb to the top of the tor to enjoy the views and explore the ruined tower that sits at the summit.
8. The Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is a World Heritage Site that stretches along the south coast of England. The coast is home to a number of stunning beaches, cliffs, and rock formations, as well as a wealth of fossils and other geological treasures. Visitors can explore the coast on foot or by boat, and there are plenty of opportunities for fossil hunting.
In conclusion, Hestercombe House & Gardens is a wonderful destination in its own right, but there is also plenty to see and do in the surrounding area. From exploring historic castles and villages to hiking in the Quantock Hills, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a relaxing break, Somerset has plenty
| Sunday | 10 am–5 pm |
|---|---|
| Monday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Tuesday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Wednesday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–5 pm |
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