Local Reviews
In September 2025, SandVP said about Hestercombe Gardens
We had a visitor staying with us in Taunton who could not walk far. We inquired by phone about the possibility of hiring a tramper vehicle at the site. The response could not have been more helpful, both on the phone and at the site. We hired the tramper for a couple of hours and were provided with a map of the landscape gardens showing the routes suitable for trampers. The vehicle was easy to drive and felt very stable. We were able to reach all areas of the landscape gardens in the hire period. The tramper hire was reasonably priced and allowed our visitor to enjoy the site to the full. Thank you Hestercombe.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2025, Jane N said about Hestercombe Gardens
The gardens are lovely but that is more than you can say for our meal in the Stables Restaurant.
We only wanted a snack so opted for the cheese and ham toastie. You imagine cheese melting inside the bread and combining with the ham. We we got was bread in the verge of being toasted ie dry, cheese that had only just started to melt with thick ham , some almost 1cm thick (more like a ham steak) stuck on the top.
My husband managed less than a quarter and I managed only slightly more. Our complaint was met with indifference as we were presented with the bill.
We only wanted a snack so opted for the cheese and ham toastie. You imagine cheese melting inside the bread and combining with the ham. We we got was bread in the verge of being toasted ie dry, cheese that had only just started to melt with thick ham , some almost 1cm thick (more like a ham steak) stuck on the top.
My husband managed less than a quarter and I managed only slightly more. Our complaint was met with indifference as we were presented with the bill.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In October 2025, Dunc51 said about Hestercombe Gardens
Visited today - I have to say that the staff were superb - all of them to friendly and enthusiastic. Also, an excellent selection of gluten free cakes :)
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In December 2025, NicoleO513 said about Hestercombe Gardens
We have been visiting on and off for years. The gardens have several aspects and will delight visitors. The walks on the wider estate are through a wooded valley and up to a glorious view point over the whole of Taunton vale. There are several paths, each offering different surprise vista points with views across to the cascade (waterfall) or to the various follies or right down to Taunton. The follies are all completely individual and all have brilliant character. The ducks and swans obviously enjoy the small lakes. It is often quiet up here and tranquil and it’s great to sit and enjoy the amazing birdsong. The formal gardens are a complete contrast, but brilliant in their own way, with straight lines, traditional planting schemes, fountains and more views over Taunton. The gardens are extremely well kept and dogs are allowed everywhere. The house is open but now has fewer exhibits than in years gone by. The staff in the ticket office are outstanding with a wealth of knowledge and always a big smile and friendly words. This garden is historic and great pains were undertaken to restore it. It is well worth supporting and in doing so you will have a lovely and rewarding day out!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In January 2026, S T said about Hestercombe Gardens
A lovely winter visit to the charmingly pastoral 18C Landscape garden and spectacular formal Lutyens/Jekyll garden. There was a frosting of snow. It is always worth a visit and we enjoyed our coffee in the Stables which is always very welcoming.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2026, Francesjay said about Hestercombe Gardens
Visited today with a friend and had a wonderful day in the sunshine. The valley was awash with daffodils and the cascade was in full flow.
The lakes were tranquil with a solitary swan and several pairs of ducks.
We enjoyed a delicious lunch in the Stables restaurant, and enjoyed the exhibition in the house. All the staff were friendly and helpful. I would recommend you visit Hestercombe for a happy day out.
The lakes were tranquil with a solitary swan and several pairs of ducks.
We enjoyed a delicious lunch in the Stables restaurant, and enjoyed the exhibition in the house. All the staff were friendly and helpful. I would recommend you visit Hestercombe for a happy day out.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2026, verchaixbob said about Hestercombe Gardens
Nice Mothers' Day walk around the grounds of Hestercombe with a lovely roast dinner in the Stables. Only problem was that when we wanted to go back into the gardens after we'd eaten, it was impossible - even though they are open until 5pm! Ticket office was closed and there was no other way of returning to the garden. A disappointing end to the visit, considering the price paid for a group of four people.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2026, LexiJane said about Hestercombe Gardens
Beautiful gardens & scenery.
Annie who greeted us was a credit to Hestercombe as she was very friendly and knowledgeable. She really made our visit special.
Annie who greeted us was a credit to Hestercombe as she was very friendly and knowledgeable. She really made our visit special.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2021, Jonny and Charlie said about Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa
Came here with my partner for a night away and a walk round pendle hill. The hotel is lovely, in a great location the room is great and the best shower we've ever had! The reception staff were very helpful and more than accommodating but Chris from the cameo bar was above and beyond. He couldn't have been more helpful. What a great place to stay!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2021, Julie N said about Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa
First impressions lovely. On closer inspection not so !!! Sorry. Staff in the treatment rooms absolutely faultless, patient, relaxing and caring. No complaints here at all. There was an obvious lack of staff which became more apparent as their working day progressed. The young ladies working in the restaurant area where absolutely amazing, polite, funny and they were happy to help and assist. Worth far more than they are probably paid, especially when you compare the absolute rudeness of the restaurant manager!!!!! We all have a bad day, I get that, but wow, we were there to help our best friend celebrate her hen party. We were barked at in no uncertain terms and especially at breakfast we were all told off like children - so disappointing, the lady serving up the hot breakfast was also rude, slopping food on plates like an old fashioned dinner lady. Sorry not impressed. I will not be recommending this hotel. One last thing, perhaps another look at the ladies on the reception desk might be something to do, again one very helpful others condescending and if honest a little rude
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk