Local Reviews
In July 2016, Chris L said about Hestercombe Gardens
The Gertrude Jekyll gardens are lovely but we enjoyed the walks through the woodland as much. The grounds have a series of grottoes, temples and other "enhancements" dotted through them. There are also a series of lakes. The views out over the surrounding countryside are stunning. Difficult to believe how much the restoration of Hestercombe has achieved in relatively little time.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2016, Bill H said about Hestercombe Gardens
Lovely gardens, the sunken garden is a delight. Once you've enjoyed the formality, there is the larger landscaped gardens with ponds and a river. Finally try the cafe, really nice.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2016, gpw150 said about Hestercombe Gardens
We enjoyed ou summer day visiting this su[p garden a real treasure of a find
Every part was a colourful vista
Every part was a colourful vista
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2016, lancslass67 said about Hestercombe Gardens
On our way to Chard we visited this lovely garden. Three contrasting areas - a longish valley garden with statuary etc., a large lake fed by a waterfall and providing a home for mallards. A classical garden on the south side of the property with formal beds and plantings, also an orangery with orange and lemon trees (in bloom when we visited and giving off a wonderful scent). A few sitting areas in quiet corners. The generator house where electricity is/was generated to serve the house and flour mill. The latter is all set up in working order and is therefore of historical interest, particularly for young people. A well used cafe with extensive interesting menu and small gift shop. Car parking is up into the woods and can be quite a hill up for people of limited mobility. Arrive early to overcome this!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2016, Cavalier said about Hestercombe Gardens
We go here a fair bit as it makes a change from town centre or mass chain coffee shops
Like the staff and quality of food offered and it always is busy which says it all
You can use coffee shop without paying entrance fee into the wonderful grounds
Like the staff and quality of food offered and it always is busy which says it all
You can use coffee shop without paying entrance fee into the wonderful grounds
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2016, eaglesdare said about Hestercombe Gardens
This is a wonderful place to go with friends or family. Membership definitely worth it but regardless food is great! Cafe / restaurant at front serves great salads, sandwiches and hot food and service is excellent ! For something a bit more special try the restaurant in the main house !! Overlooking gardens :-) .
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2016, tigerexplorer2015 said about Hestercombe Gardens
We last visited Hestercombe Gardens in 2013 and after our visit last week, I felt a little disappointed. The gardens were very much the same, and the walk around the lakes was very pleasant, but the entrance fee has risen to £11 per person. The only addition for the increase in price was entry to Hestercome House, which was completely empty except for paintings in an art exhibition and a second hand book shop, which took a very short amount of time to walk around. The house is in need of some period furnishings, but I assume this is a work in progress. The gardens were lovely, which is why I have rated the experience as 'very good'. However, sadly the cafe has gone down hill. It looked tired, dirty and in need of redecoration. We sat at a dirty table and while the staff cleared away the cups etc, none of the tables were wiped clean.
I would recommend visiting for the garden and parkland walks, but the house and cafe were disappointing, and did not seem good value for money.
I would recommend visiting for the garden and parkland walks, but the house and cafe were disappointing, and did not seem good value for money.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2016, Tony and Joy W said about Hestercombe Gardens
We visited Hestercombe Gardens and spent a wonderful day there exploring all the trails and also the formal gardens of Hestercombe House. All the gardens are well laid out with plenty of seating and picnic areas too. A handy guide map is given free and very helpful, as are the staff. There are events during the year and is dog friendly. There is a shop, plant centre and Stables Cafe that does a good variety of food and drinks. Nearby is Hestercombe House which offers a second-hand book shop, art exhibitions and the Column Room Restaurant (Wed-Sun) offering waiter service for lunch and afternoon tea. Well worth a day out.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2016, 576davidjames said about Hestercombe Gardens
Everything about Hestercombe Gardens is on a grand scale. This beautiful estate in a Quantocks valley has been occupied for over a thousand years and presents an extended view of the neighbouring Blackdown Hills. The present- day house has an unfortunate, heavy Victorian facade built of a sullen grey stone, and looms above this gorgeous setting.But never mind: the flamboyant plaster work of its interior is hugely impressive.And such an appropriate venue for an art galley currently dominated by the landscape artworks of Clare Woods. Her brilliantly coloured paintings on aluminium and plastic, flood the vast spaces in a way you are unlikely to see anywhere else. Simply stunning.
The gardens were originally designed to be viewed and admired as a series of landscape paintings, accompanied by a series of cascades, canals and pools which are a joy to walk around. The later gardens are a Jeykyll/Lutyens masterpiece.
Do eat in the Stables. The food is imaginative, well presented and served. A treat.
The gardens were originally designed to be viewed and admired as a series of landscape paintings, accompanied by a series of cascades, canals and pools which are a joy to walk around. The later gardens are a Jeykyll/Lutyens masterpiece.
Do eat in the Stables. The food is imaginative, well presented and served. A treat.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In July 2016, Nelson S said about Hestercombe Gardens
Not just a lovely garden but also some excellent food, nothing over the top, but wholesome, and the Sunday lunch is simple and uncomplicated leaving you felling full.
Downs side only one till so if coach in can be a long line waiting to order
Downs side only one till so if coach in can be a long line waiting to order
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk