Hestercombe Gardens
Latest Reviews
Lovely gardens lit up at night. The best thing though was the hot food in the restaurant - make sure you book in advance though!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Hestercombe Gardens are NOT part of the National Trust. It is supported by a stand alone trust and over the past 30 odd years the trust has reclaimed the landscape garden and built Hestercombe into the visitor attraction it is today. Until very recently the house was owned by Somerset County Council and used as the HQ for the Fire Service. The Trust is now working to restore and develop the house.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited whilst on holiday and thought that the formal gardens at the front of the house were just marvellous. There are a number of different areas and terraces, gradually going downhill, the whole effect is beautiful. The planting was good with lots to see and many butterflies and other insects; the small 'daisies' filling many cracks in the steps and walls were lovely. We walked through a lot of the rest of the garden and there was plenty to see.
We had lunch when we arrived and, yes, it was rather expensive, although very tasty sandwiches, served with crisps and coleslaw. The shop and plant sales were good.
My one complaint is this - the boards displaying the entrance fee {not cheap} had a small note to say that prices include a 'voluntary' 10% contribution to the upkeep. We did not see this until after we had paid and no one drew our attention to this supposedly voluntary contribution - not a good arrangement, we would have liked to know this before we paid, how many of us study the small print on a board by the entrance?
However, in spite of this, the gardens are well worth a visit.
We had lunch when we arrived and, yes, it was rather expensive, although very tasty sandwiches, served with crisps and coleslaw. The shop and plant sales were good.
My one complaint is this - the boards displaying the entrance fee {not cheap} had a small note to say that prices include a 'voluntary' 10% contribution to the upkeep. We did not see this until after we had paid and no one drew our attention to this supposedly voluntary contribution - not a good arrangement, we would have liked to know this before we paid, how many of us study the small print on a board by the entrance?
However, in spite of this, the gardens are well worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This National Trust supported venue has most things that Great Houses and historical gardens have to offer, That said it is most definately not as good as other National Trust Gardens and Historical Buildings. The gardens and walks are very pleasant and there is some great opportunities for 'Photo Shots' However, where this falls down is there is little or no information available to explain the history of the house and its gardens except for the video recording in the 'Mill House' that aside there is little or no snippets of information as you make your way way around except for the grounds layout map you receive on entrance payment.
The tea rooms are expensive and it maybe advisable to take your own food if you are a family visit with children. The upstairs gallery in the main house is presently closed for refurbishment so there is little or nothing to see inside the house. Compared to say Dunster Castle Gardens which is not too far from Hestercombe the venue takes a second place in value and informative details
Worth a visit but not a second visit for me as in many cases I do visit places of interest on several occiasions
The tea rooms are expensive and it maybe advisable to take your own food if you are a family visit with children. The upstairs gallery in the main house is presently closed for refurbishment so there is little or nothing to see inside the house. Compared to say Dunster Castle Gardens which is not too far from Hestercombe the venue takes a second place in value and informative details
Worth a visit but not a second visit for me as in many cases I do visit places of interest on several occiasions
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited Hestercombe to see the gardens. These were as good as expected, with a magnificent formal garden facing the house and extensive walks through woodland and less formal gardens.
We were then encouraged to see the art exhibition in the house; we were informed that a number of the artists were Turner Prize winners. Oh dear..... The only good thing was that there was no extra charge for rooms full of puzzling exhibits.
But don't let this review put you off visiting the gardens.
We were then encouraged to see the art exhibition in the house; we were informed that a number of the artists were Turner Prize winners. Oh dear..... The only good thing was that there was no extra charge for rooms full of puzzling exhibits.
But don't let this review put you off visiting the gardens.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The woodland walks are especially beautiful in springtime, with lovely views across Taunton from the folly at the top of the hill, which can be seen from Obridge Viaduct if you look up to the right. Plenty of places to sit and rest if needed and the formal gardens in front of the beautiful former fire brigade headquarters are beautiful when the roses are in bloom.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
From the first visit, we were hooked! We immediately became members and have returned at least monthly for the past two years (sometimes weekly during the summer). Hestercombe is so beautiful and there are so many little places for the little ones to explore. The children also love feeding the ducks (although we all wish the swan would return to the lower pond, as he is quite aggressive sometimes) and the fish at the 'secret lake' at the top of the gardens. Our favorite spot for a break is the witch's house, but of course, we spend hours at the waterfall paddling around in the stream. It's lovely. One of the best places in Somerset. Easy parking - not too far from Taunton. Fantastic.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited the gardens whilst on holiday in Somerset for the first time. Would definitely visit again.
We were lucky that the weather was lovely, sunny and warm for our visit. The wilder gardens have paths to wander around with little features that you can sit and take in. The waterfall was lovely as was the various pools. The more formal gardens were absolutely beautiful with some gardeners working on them whilst we were there.
There was an art exhibition on in the house on the grounds which we were told changes on a regular basis.
The gardens allow dogs and the pathways are wheelchair and buggy friendly in most places. You are given a map on entry which lets you know the accessible paths.
You could spend a few hours having a gentle stroll and wander around these lovely gardens and the entrance fee was reasonable.
We were lucky that the weather was lovely, sunny and warm for our visit. The wilder gardens have paths to wander around with little features that you can sit and take in. The waterfall was lovely as was the various pools. The more formal gardens were absolutely beautiful with some gardeners working on them whilst we were there.
There was an art exhibition on in the house on the grounds which we were told changes on a regular basis.
The gardens allow dogs and the pathways are wheelchair and buggy friendly in most places. You are given a map on entry which lets you know the accessible paths.
You could spend a few hours having a gentle stroll and wander around these lovely gardens and the entrance fee was reasonable.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I actually visited Hestercombe for my friends wedding that was taking place in the grounds, however, we got to have a wander around the gardens and they are absolutely beautiful- well worth a visit on a nice sunny day.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What a beautiful place to get married the gardens were immaculately kept, lots of pathways & beds full of colour stunning views across to the Mendips . The staff very polite & helpful .
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Come here quite regularly, live very near, peace and quiet, lovely gardens and a nice cup of tea and a scone fo rafters!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I love this place. I have gone a couple of times now, this place has something for everyone. Inside the house there is an art gallery, and high tea. The front gardens are pristine but my favorite part is the back gardens. Perfectly wild, the back gardens run lush, with even a waterfall and lovely resting places to boot. I've seen deer and swans here. A great place to get lost.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Stunning venue with excellent service and hospitality. My friends married by the waterfall, and it was idyllic.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Hestercombe Gardens can be enjoyed slowly and at your own pace without too many other people around. It has lovely formal gardens you can wander around and look at the well maintained flowers. The wilder gardens are good to walk around with some interesting little features and a small waterfall. It is a nice place to sit and take in the fresh air or just wander. The walking is easy and the gardens not too big. We paid to go in and one friend took an annual subscription which seems a much better option and value for money.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited with a group, not knowing what to expect and was absolutely thrilled. Simply beautiful, lots to see at every turn, and the unexpected around every corner. Will be returning as soon as possible. Loved it.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visit for the third time in the last couple of years this time with our local Gardening Club and the gardens were looking the best we have seen them despite a few showers during the visit. Plenty to do walks wise and we aim to return for a winter walk having only visited in the early/late Summer time up till now. A lovely place.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Beautiful Gardens, and wonderful views make this garden one not to be missed. The gardens are well laid out with lots of colour and as you wander around the grounds you get many different aspects of this lovely garden which also has pergolas and ponds. There is also a theatre in the mill which charts the history of how the estate and gardens came into being.
The woodland walk around the extensive grounds is also one not to be missed and although it is uphill in parts it is not that steep and when you return to the house you can enjoy a drink and food in the restaurant or coffee bar
The woodland walk around the extensive grounds is also one not to be missed and although it is uphill in parts it is not that steep and when you return to the house you can enjoy a drink and food in the restaurant or coffee bar
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Gardens and lakes are pretty. Restaurant offers good food. However word of warning these gardens are NOT suitable for anyone in a wheelchair. The lift to the restaurant was out of order and was told it was going to cost too much to repair.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Used tesco vouchers to get in, and even though website quoted £23, we were charged £24.20.
It was nice place for a walk with family and 2 dogs, and saw lots of nice things and scenery.
The food was nice in the restaurant.
There was an art exhibition on in the house, which was good, but found the house was a bit smooth apart from that. The gardens were nice and well presented.
Unfortunately not somewhere I'd be tempted to visit again though.
It was nice place for a walk with family and 2 dogs, and saw lots of nice things and scenery.
The food was nice in the restaurant.
There was an art exhibition on in the house, which was good, but found the house was a bit smooth apart from that. The gardens were nice and well presented.
Unfortunately not somewhere I'd be tempted to visit again though.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Really interesting gardens and estate - something different around every corner and lots of land and walks to be had - also cafe/tea-room has a good menu
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Bit pricey, as other reviewers have stated, but I wanted to get some greenery in my sight and smell, away from London, and this provided. In my opinion, a nice mix of the formal garden, which I could take or leave, and some wilder, marshy areas which were more me.
Lots of benches and places to sit, and the estimated time it takes to walk around (as noted on the map you are given when you pay the entrance fee) is hugely over estimated, so don't be put off - 2 hours is more like half an hour, and I'm no spring chicken, nor a gym bunny :)
Several reviewers have noted that the restaurant is very overpriced, I'm not sure I agree. It's not cheap, but the service was good, and so was the food.
Lots of benches and places to sit, and the estimated time it takes to walk around (as noted on the map you are given when you pay the entrance fee) is hugely over estimated, so don't be put off - 2 hours is more like half an hour, and I'm no spring chicken, nor a gym bunny :)
Several reviewers have noted that the restaurant is very overpriced, I'm not sure I agree. It's not cheap, but the service was good, and so was the food.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We've been members of Hestercombe for a couple of years now and we are enjoying the place more and more. There's always something to see in the gardens and the walk around the whole site is well worth doing.
We were there last evening to see an open air performance of 'The Taming of the Shrew' by the Folksy Theatre Company. What a great evening. The weather played ball and the cast had us spellbound and roaring with laughter. Most people brought picnics and all-in-all, it was great night out.
Must just mention the food in the restaurant which is excellent.
We were there last evening to see an open air performance of 'The Taming of the Shrew' by the Folksy Theatre Company. What a great evening. The weather played ball and the cast had us spellbound and roaring with laughter. Most people brought picnics and all-in-all, it was great night out.
Must just mention the food in the restaurant which is excellent.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Very interesting gardens, beautifully restored over the last few years. A pleasure to just wander around and explore.
Also, the on-site cafe is very welcome!
Also, the on-site cafe is very welcome!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
It's a lovely place for a stroll, or just a coffee and scones. We're members, so we visit regularly and have a different experience every time. We'll definitely be keeping the membership too.
Also, I like that there's an electric car hook up. We don't have one, but I like the forward thinking.
Also, I like that there's an electric car hook up. We don't have one, but I like the forward thinking.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Wow! I was completely blown away by Hestercombe gardens near Taunton. Every friday in the school holiday they hold themed days. My ten year old son and his friend did raft building and then had to work as a team to paddle it on the lake. The woodland gardens are beautiful and full of follies. The waterfall is magical and the water drops down into a pretty stream, a great place to rest hot tired feet on a baking hot day. We didn't see all that was on offer, so will definitely return. The website is very informative.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
