Local Reviews
In August 2016, pja47 said about Hestercombe Gardens
We spent over two hours here, walking around the gardens, which are really beautiful. The video detailing the history of the gardens and their restoration is very well done and well worth seeing. The second hand bookshop had some real bargains. Neither my wife nor I enjoyed the current (end August) art exhibition, but we are not avid fans of modern art. The staff were very friendly, and we would go again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2016, CrichtonDorset said about Hestercombe Gardens
Arrived on a hot Tuesday afternoon during the school holidays and found out that there were children's activities each Tuesday during the holidays. It looked really good and all the children were enjoying themselves. The gardens were remarkable and very visitor friendly with regard to access. Went in the house but did not go to the Art exhibition but went into the secondhand book sale. It was too hot to be indoors so went out and explored the gardens a little more before finishing off with a cream tea in the courtyard café. We did not have as much time there as we would have liked so will return and stay longer.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In August 2016, Tim T said about Hestercombe Gardens
Hestercombe has a great deal to offer both adults and children. Four aspects justify mention.
The formal gardens, were designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens with planting based on schemes from Gertrude Jekyll. Walls on three sides surround the garden, which is laid-out in a rectangular pattern, with rills of water between rows of planting. To the south is an open view over the Vale of Taunton Deane to the Blackdown Hills. The semi-amphitheatre setting and the view to the south make for a special atmosphere. The range of plants is worthy of study.
The Orangery and Shrubbery, and the plants within them, also contribute to Hestercombe being a special place to visit.
Hestercombe covers some 40 acres containing the very special woodland walk. Laid-out in a valley, the walk contains a stream, several ponds, with associated planting, and the Grand Cascade, a waterfall issuing from a leat built into the hillside. On the hillside, set amongst the planted trees, there are a number of follies, including temples, urns and observation points, which add to the romantic atmosphere.
The cafe/restaurant in the converted stables, provides more than adequate refreshment, suitable for all ages, and the shop is well-stocked for gifts and souvenirs to purchase and take away.
Hestercombe is therefore a romantic and attractive venue for a relaxing and stimulating visit. it is only a short distance from the M5 motorway, and worth any detour to break-up any journey.
The formal gardens, were designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens with planting based on schemes from Gertrude Jekyll. Walls on three sides surround the garden, which is laid-out in a rectangular pattern, with rills of water between rows of planting. To the south is an open view over the Vale of Taunton Deane to the Blackdown Hills. The semi-amphitheatre setting and the view to the south make for a special atmosphere. The range of plants is worthy of study.
The Orangery and Shrubbery, and the plants within them, also contribute to Hestercombe being a special place to visit.
Hestercombe covers some 40 acres containing the very special woodland walk. Laid-out in a valley, the walk contains a stream, several ponds, with associated planting, and the Grand Cascade, a waterfall issuing from a leat built into the hillside. On the hillside, set amongst the planted trees, there are a number of follies, including temples, urns and observation points, which add to the romantic atmosphere.
The cafe/restaurant in the converted stables, provides more than adequate refreshment, suitable for all ages, and the shop is well-stocked for gifts and souvenirs to purchase and take away.
Hestercombe is therefore a romantic and attractive venue for a relaxing and stimulating visit. it is only a short distance from the M5 motorway, and worth any detour to break-up any journey.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2016, Chell S said about Hestercombe Gardens
We bar costed Hestercombe so many times and each time we have a wonderful time.
The views and the gardens are spectacular and we love stomping round to explore. The cafe and tea room are delightful and all the food is fresh and (I am guessing) local. It certainly seems it!
The addition of a BBQ over the recent bank holiday weekend was a brilliant idea and we really enjoyed tucking into it after our walking.
The views and the gardens are spectacular and we love stomping round to explore. The cafe and tea room are delightful and all the food is fresh and (I am guessing) local. It certainly seems it!
The addition of a BBQ over the recent bank holiday weekend was a brilliant idea and we really enjoyed tucking into it after our walking.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2016, Jennifer M said about Hestercombe Gardens
We have always passed by this garden and never thought to go in it until we saw it on gardeners world .What a wonderful garden and grounds it takes your breathe away.There is a play area for small children and a picnic area as well as a cafe .If you are to walk the grounds wear good shoes as it is a 56 acre garden with pools and lakes with follies as well as the beautiful formal gardens and orangery.Paths are disabled friendly and pushchair friendly.Dogs are welcome on leads .The house has a artist in residence and her works are on show.The house is empty of furniture but has a restaurant as well as a second hand book shop.toilets are disabled and child friendly .Car park and coach park.Afterwards ? you will be too tired to any more ,
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2016, MartynP2 said about Hestercombe Gardens
First time here today. Fabulous gardens and a beautiful walk. So many interesting outer buildings and follies. Fascinating history. Well worth a visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2016, ibar1922 said about Hestercombe Gardens
The beautiful gardens of Hestercombe are well worth a visit but this review is a wedding location recommendation. The ceremony was in the unique orangearie with harpist in the background. Pimms and games on the lawn then dinner in the hall. Excellent food and service and the location generally for wedding photography was excellent. Lots of room for breakaway groups of friends and room for the children to play. Highly recommended.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2016, Rob L said about Hestercombe Gardens
Popped in to Hestercombe for a lovely tranquil walk in the woods.
Wandered around the beautiful gardens, and had a fresh cup of coffee with a salmon baguette. Never been before but will definitely be going again.
Wandered around the beautiful gardens, and had a fresh cup of coffee with a salmon baguette. Never been before but will definitely be going again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2016, piney56 said about Hestercombe Gardens
Good all round place for visit particularly with children or older people, very nice walks with unusual features and lakes as well as lovely formal gardens, shop and plants for sale and cafe serving nice food.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
In September 2016, Dave n Sal H said about Hestercombe Gardens
Dogs allowed everywhere except inside the house (as usual for most attractions). The house is architecturally interesting externally but inside is of more interest to modern (contemporary?) art lovers.
Gardens are a pleasure and well landscaped with some great views over the valley.
Could do with a few more dog waste bins around though, especially to the south of the formal gardens.
Gardens are a pleasure and well landscaped with some great views over the valley.
Could do with a few more dog waste bins around though, especially to the south of the formal gardens.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk