Local Reviews
In December 2024, Sue P said about Hestercombe Gardens
Illuminate lights. Friendly staff.
The lights were amazing even though our English weather had broken some the previous night in a bad storm. We didn't know what had been broken, a few visual signs but it didn't ruin the evening. The colours and displays were spectacular, absolutely loved it. Because we were unable to see everything we were given tickets to come back at any time within the next 6 months which we look forward to.
We ended the evening with a delicious turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce roll and a cuppa.
The lights were amazing even though our English weather had broken some the previous night in a bad storm. We didn't know what had been broken, a few visual signs but it didn't ruin the evening. The colours and displays were spectacular, absolutely loved it. Because we were unable to see everything we were given tickets to come back at any time within the next 6 months which we look forward to.
We ended the evening with a delicious turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce roll and a cuppa.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In December 2024, helgre2016 said about Hestercombe Gardens
Even though its December the garden still held loads of interest. We were not here for the light show but it looked like it would be very good.
Lots of little seating areas all the way around, good paths for the buggy, there were off raod paths but as a bit muddy we left them for a return visit.
Interesting house with history being displayed. Interesting history display in the mill house with types of alternative power.Lovely gift shop, santas grotto and tea shop.
Weve not been here before but there was something for us all and we will definately return in the new year.
Lots of little seating areas all the way around, good paths for the buggy, there were off raod paths but as a bit muddy we left them for a return visit.
Interesting house with history being displayed. Interesting history display in the mill house with types of alternative power.Lovely gift shop, santas grotto and tea shop.
Weve not been here before but there was something for us all and we will definately return in the new year.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In December 2024, Yvonne said about Hestercombe Gardens
We visited their Illuminated gardens, which run over the Festive period. It was amazing and well thought out. We had to pre book a time slot, I assume , to stop having too many people at one time. Even then, it was busy. Some of the paths were steep and rugged so care to be taken in the dark.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In February 2025, Yvonne T said about Hestercombe Gardens
We went for an anniversary treat, to see the Illuminated Gardens. We booked on the internet for 5.15 and was quite busy, although only just opened. We were not disappointed, it was amazing and magical. Although it was a misty evening it was briilaint.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In February 2025, A P said about Hestercombe Gardens
The afternoon tea was a good size for the 2 of us. We each had 3 finger sandwiches with tasty fillings, a sausage roll slice, a huge scone with a generous portion of jam and clotted cream plus 5 other sweet treats. We really enjoyed our afternoon tea and ended up taking some of it home with us as there was plenty to eat. My only negative was that it was half an hour from sitting at our reserved table before it arrived. As we had booked in advance I assumed we would be served fairly quickly.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In March 2025, Sarah D said about Hestercombe Gardens
We had lovely morning here. Started off with a Cappuccino and cake. Then we had a nice hour walk with our two dogs around the gardens. Enjoy seeing the waterfall and the swan.
We then and had lunch in the cafe. I had a burger and chips. My partner had chicken leg curry. Both were really tasty. We were impressed there was a non alcoholic choice. I had a Taunton cider company 0% & my partner had a Peroni 0%. Very enjoyable visit.
We then and had lunch in the cafe. I had a burger and chips. My partner had chicken leg curry. Both were really tasty. We were impressed there was a non alcoholic choice. I had a Taunton cider company 0% & my partner had a Peroni 0%. Very enjoyable visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In April 2025, Nigel S said about Hestercombe Gardens
Gardens are amazing all year round plenty to see as you walk around formal gardens are varied and well kept and the woodland/park areas offer interesting mix. Gallery was ok but overall let the whole thing down a little and had the feel of needing a bit more work. Internal visit of building could do with more information about history. Cafe provides a varied menu but certainly not cheap.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In April 2025, Daydream20759995959 said about Hestercombe Gardens
Ordering tea coffee cake or savoury snack used to be pleasurable.
Now there is a Please wait to be seated sign.Quite unnecessary on a quiet day.
Worse still one is not permitted to enter purchase and pay for hot drinks cake etc
Hence this is no longer a place where I feel happy to lunch or bring friends.
I prefered it when it had a less elitist feel.
Your small cafe is better but rarely open.
PG tea bags are a disappointing feature.I would expect better.
A more casual relaxed feel would be better suited to a garden visit.
If I wanted fine dining and table service I would go elsewhere.
I would like cosy casual and much rather pay as I order.
Sadly it was lovely and now it isn't.
Now there is a Please wait to be seated sign.Quite unnecessary on a quiet day.
Worse still one is not permitted to enter purchase and pay for hot drinks cake etc
Hence this is no longer a place where I feel happy to lunch or bring friends.
I prefered it when it had a less elitist feel.
Your small cafe is better but rarely open.
PG tea bags are a disappointing feature.I would expect better.
A more casual relaxed feel would be better suited to a garden visit.
If I wanted fine dining and table service I would go elsewhere.
I would like cosy casual and much rather pay as I order.
Sadly it was lovely and now it isn't.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In May 2025, Margaret B said about Hestercombe Gardens
Absolutely wonderful gardens. Loved the daisy steps and the climb through trees and past ponds is well worth it for the view of Taunton vale. Lots of temples and such like allowing you to take in the vistas and have a rest.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In May 2025, Patembleton said about Hestercombe Gardens
The gardens are lovely as usual but there is no where to get a drink of anything or buy a cake or ice cream without sitting in a restaurant setting. I had lunch there and although I felt the waiters welcoming but the food was mediocre and I really don’t want to be forced into a formal setting when I visit a garden. It is also worrying that there are no points to even fill a water bottle, I became dehydrated as i finished the gardens.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk