There’s nothing better than a long afternoon spent wandering the grounds of a stately home finished by an afternoon tea. We have gathered some of the best stately homes with stunning gardens in Somerset
Milton Lodge Gardens
The sophisticated garden at Milton Lodge is a wonderful place to peruse in the afternoon. Open between two and five, this garden has a lily pond and multiple terraces with gorgeous views over the Vale of Avalon, making it a perfect place for a post-lunch wander.
Orchard Wyndhams
Check the website for times and book a guided tour around the gardens and house of Orchard Wyndham. The medieval manor house and accompanying gardens are open on specific days throughout the year and showcase fascinating architecture in the building and beautiful gardens surrounding it.
Hestercombe
With over 50 acres of inviting landscape to explore, the eclectic gardens at Hestercombe are truly a sight to behold. Spanning over 300 years of garden design, there is plenty to see here. You can even enjoy a champagne afternoon tea at the Stables Café when you have finished.
Montacute House
The grand Elizbethan Montacute House is surrounded by lush greenery that you can include in your tour of this estate. With something for everyone including tree swings and long walks with views of the deer park.
Dunster Castle
You might not expect to find a Mediterranean garden in the heart of the Somerset countryside but prepare to be amazed by the diverse range of wildlife at Dunster Castle which includes a Mediterranean inspired garden. The castle itself is a dramatic and historic building that is over 1000 years old and you can even take a train, the Dunster Castle Express, and arrive in style.
The Bishop’s Palace
The 800 year old medieval Bishop’s Palace which has been the home for Bishops of Bath and Wells since it was built, has over 14 acres of luscious gardens to explore.
Barrington Court
With stunning orchards and rolling gardens, the historic Barrington Court was built in 1674 and is open for all to visit and see these picturesque gardens and fascinating interiors.
Tyntesfield
The gothic Victorian Tyntesfield is truly breathtaking upon first sights, with plenty to discover both inside the historic building and out in the gardens that have remained unchanged since 1900 and include an Orangery, a Rose Garden and more.
Prior Park Landscape Garden
The 18th century landscape garden that is Prior Park is a perfect day out for some fresh air and a way to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. With events such as foraging walks in which you can pick wild garlic, these enjoyable and stunning gardens are a treat for everyone.
Clevedon Court
The Grade I listed Clevedon Court dates back to the early 14th century and has been added to ever since, with the garden being listed as Grade II*, this is one of Somerset’s best stately home and gardens.
Temple of Harmony
With just the name, the Temple of Harmony entices visitors to see what it has to hold. A replica of the Temple of Portunous in Rome, it was built in 1767 on the grounds of Halswell House and the gardens were made into a Georgian pleasure gardens. Halswell House is surrounded by 450 acres of land which visitors can peruse at their leisure, absorbing the history of this magnificent place.
