Local Reviews
In September 2014, ElaineJune_11 said about Hestercombe Gardens
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
In September 2014, emmajoanne said about Hestercombe Gardens
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
In September 2014, Baggiebird68 said about Hestercombe Gardens
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
In September 2014, Cathy T said about Hestercombe Gardens
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
In September 2014, Anita J said about Hestercombe Gardens
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
In September 2014, Pachydiplax said about Hestercombe Gardens
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
In September 2014, Roger187047 said about Hestercombe Gardens
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
In September 2014, Jean F said about Hestercombe Gardens
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
In September 2014, rml43 said about Hestercombe Gardens
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
In September 2014, markandelaina b said about Hestercombe Gardens
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