Local Reviews
In May 2026, ScotinEngland said about Hestercombe Gardens
A really well laid out garden reflecting many styles of layout from formal to herbaceous to rambling walks to folly buildings to bluebell walks and amazing waterfalls. Could not have been more varied. Well worth the visit. A good garden diagram supplied on entry too.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In May 2026, victoroscar said about Hestercombe Gardens
Fantastic and well kept house and gardens. Really picturesque and varied landscape. Lots of cars in the carpark but so big we barely saw anyone. Beautiful views and the formal gardens by the house are spectacular. The wisteria was out and gorgeous, and they have the biggest clematis I've ever seen. The house had lots of interesting photos and info too.
The only thing stopping me from giving 5* is the very expensive food and drink and the added service charge you are not told about, plus the way they don't like you going in to look at what the cakes are like so you can choose. . The staff in the shop and the ticket desk were very friendly and helpful though.
The only thing stopping me from giving 5* is the very expensive food and drink and the added service charge you are not told about, plus the way they don't like you going in to look at what the cakes are like so you can choose. . The staff in the shop and the ticket desk were very friendly and helpful though.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In May 2026, Clare D said about Hestercombe Gardens
I walk my dogs here twice a week as it’s a safe space for me and my dogs . My dog was bitten by a snake and I managed to get a picture before I rushed stright to the vets .It shocked my dog who even messed herself and I was in shock I won’t be bringing my dogs back here so if u have dogs even small kids please Becarefull
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2026, derek c said about Hestercombe Gardens
10 mins from motorway but through some narrow Somerset lanes.
Upmarket restaurant no simple hotpots.
Wonderful historic gardens. Well maintained. A 18th century woodland garden with eye catchers contrasts with a Gertrude Jekyll / Edward Lutchens garden. There’s a mansion to visit as well but it’s the gardens which are the real attraction.. 3/4+ hrs.
Upmarket restaurant no simple hotpots.
Wonderful historic gardens. Well maintained. A 18th century woodland garden with eye catchers contrasts with a Gertrude Jekyll / Edward Lutchens garden. There’s a mansion to visit as well but it’s the gardens which are the real attraction.. 3/4+ hrs.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2026, Helen G said about Hestercombe Gardens
The staff are friendly and welcoming and very informative and helpful. The admission fee is reasonable. We spent a couple of hours wandering round the well kept tranquil gardens and then had a lovely lunch in the cafe. The menu is varied and the food is very tasty. A trip round the house in the afternoon was interesting.
We all had a very pleasant day and the weather was glorious
We all had a very pleasant day and the weather was glorious
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2026, 522sarah104 said about Hestercombe Gardens
From reading reviews I wasn't sure what to expect but was very pleasantly surprised. On arriving we were made to feel very welcome and given a great explanation of the garden. We started with the army barracks before going up the Georgian landscape garden which had a peaceful feel to it. After a picnic at the mill pond we saw the watermill, watched the video of the garden revival and then saw the formal area which for us was the highlight of the day. The Dutch garden and Orangery area was picturesque with Mexican daisies softening all the cracks in the paving and steps. The formal terraces across the different levels with the views out to the countryside were amazing, yes they could do with a bit of TLC (deadheading and weeding) but it didn't spoil our enjoyment of them. The roses up the pergola were beautiful and smelt heavenly. Inside the house was full of amazing photos, videos and history and well worth a visit. We looked in the well stocked bookshop and at the plants and overall had a very lovely day out.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In June 2026, David H said about Hestercombe Gardens
HESTERCOMBE HOUSE AND GARDENS
Situated just outside my home town of Taunton, this is well worth a visit.
The original gardens were later influenced by Gertrude Jekyll, who laid out the Victoria Terrace, and by Edwin Lutyens who both designed parts of the garden and the orangery.
A lot of the history is on display in the house with an introductory film.
There is a book shop and plants for sake and the cafe using local produce has a covered seating area.
Free to Historic Houses member.
Situated just outside my home town of Taunton, this is well worth a visit.
The original gardens were later influenced by Gertrude Jekyll, who laid out the Victoria Terrace, and by Edwin Lutyens who both designed parts of the garden and the orangery.
A lot of the history is on display in the house with an introductory film.
There is a book shop and plants for sake and the cafe using local produce has a covered seating area.
Free to Historic Houses member.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2021, 910brygom said about Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa
The hotel has changed a lot since our last visit 20 years ago. There was a queue at reception due to an awkward group of guests tying up one receptionist. Our room was massive, very clean, super comfortable beds and plenty of towels for the three of us. Breakfast was generally good, but only a limited range of cereals and the hot selection was not replenished quickly enough whilst we were there. Excellent value for money compared to the wedding venue where we had spent the two previous nights. We will certainly return if the need arises.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2021, heavoh86 said about Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa
I attended the SPA having been bought a voucher (Buy a gift) for Christmas 2019 (Due to COVID we had to extend voucher - there was no issues with this) I went with my Sister in Law and we both agreed we will be going again. It was a lovely relaxing day. We both had a facial and a massage along with some lunch, the Tapas was amazing, not something I would normally choose, however I was not disappointed. All staff are very friendly and approachable. I did find before visiting it was difficult to get through to somebody on the phone, I manage it in the end, but I do feel an answering machine may possibly assist! We had the pleasure of the sun on our day so was able to sit in the nice garden out front. Hopefully be back soon with my partner. We didn't go in the hotel.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2021, Debbie H said about Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa
A lovely country hotel and lady who greeted us at reception was lovely and friendly. Booked into a twin room which.was very spacious and had had 2 double beds, lovely bathroom but that's where it ends. Room boiling hot and no fan plus one of the big windows was painted shut so you couldn't open it. Room view was lovely, but the roar of the M65 in the distance wasn't, so bring earplugs! Asked to book a table for dinner, but was asked if we were on a package?!!! Said no, so was asked to come back after 5pm to see if space as that's when their package guest list comes out. Went back and no availability at all for dinner. Suggested we go to local town for dinner. Erm no that is not what I wanted to do after a 4 and a half hour drive, but had no choice. Had to pay for a taxi there and back with only 1 restaurant open as it was a Monday. On our way out heard reception guiding people who had just checked in to restaurant area, wanted to say no chance of dinner unless you're on a package!!. I have never been to a hotel where you can't book a table to eat. Also the bar area or outside seating area can't serve food as asked to sit there to eat. How ridiculous is that! Luckily the £10 car park fee has been suspended for now, as I certainly wouldn't have paid it due to the above. Thank goodness we only stayed for 1 night. Heard other people complaining too about the fact they couldn't book a table, so wasn't just us.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk