Hestercombe House and Gardens
A stunning fusion of Lutyens's architecture and Jekyll's planting, Hestercombe offers formal gardens, a dramatic landscape, and historical charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Roses in bloom, fewer crowds
Hestercombe House and Gardens
Best Time
Roses in bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning fusion of Lutyens's architecture and Jekyll's planting, Hestercombe offers formal gardens, a dramatic landscape, and historical charm.
"The gardens were lovely, a really lovely garden to walk around. Would definitely go back."
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Many garden paths are hilly and rough. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for exploring Hestercombe's grounds.
Check garden conditions :droplet:
During dry spells, the landscape garden's waterfall may not be running. Visit after rain for the full effect.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Formal Gardens
South of the House
Explore the meticulously designed formal gardens, a collaboration between Lutyens and Jekyll, featuring rills, pergolas, and pools.
Landscape Garden
West of the House
Wander through the dramatic landscape garden with its temples, waterfall, and panoramic views across the valley.
Gertrude Jekyll's Planting
Throughout the Gardens
Appreciate the vibrant and thoughtful planting schemes designed by the renowned Gertrude Jekyll, especially visible in rose season.
The Stables Restaurant
Near the Entrance
Enjoy locally sourced meals and refreshments in this independently run cafe, perfect for a post-garden treat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Garden Accessibility & Terrain
Best Time for Full Garden Impact
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Many garden paths are hilly and rough. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for exploring Hestercombe's grounds.
Check garden conditions :droplet:
During dry spells, the landscape garden's waterfall may not be running. Visit after rain for the full effect.
Cafe food variety :fork_and_knife_with_plate:
The cafe offers good food, but vegan options can be limited. Consider bringing your own picnic for more choice.
Dog-friendly welcome :dog:
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens, making it a great spot for a family outing with your furry friend.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Many garden paths are hilly and rough. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for exploring Hestercombe's grounds.
Check garden conditions :droplet:
During dry spells, the landscape garden's waterfall may not be running. Visit after rain for the full effect.
Cafe food variety :fork_and_knife_with_plate:
The cafe offers good food, but vegan options can be limited. Consider bringing your own picnic for more choice.
Dog-friendly welcome :dog:
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens, making it a great spot for a family outing with your furry friend.
Photography paradise :camera_with_flash:
The house and gardens offer endless photo opportunities, from formal beds to dramatic landscapes. Allow ample time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the beauty and design of Hestercombe's gardens, highlighting the collaboration between Lutyens and Jekyll as a major draw. The staff are often described as friendly and helpful. However, some find the terrain challenging for mobility, and opinions on the cafe's food quality are mixed.
"Our first visit to Hestercombe. It's been on our list to visit for ages. Very lovely staff at the entrance. Explained everything we needed to know. The gardens were lovely. Unfortunately it's been so dry that they are looking a bit parched. It didn't spoil our enjoyment though. Map is easy to read. Be aware that a lot of the trails are quite hilly and rough under foot so not suitable if you have mobility issues. There are however trails that are suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs etc.
We didnt use the café as we brought our own food. The café is independently run.
All in all a lovely few hours wander."
Myfanw Jones
"Our visit to the Hestercombe House and Gardens was a good morning visit just off M5. Currently being renovated it still offers an insight into the past of the house and previous uses, ground floor and couple rooms upstairs available, outside a good garden and walk through woods. Grounds a little parched after heatwave ( End of August) and need of TLC. Good restaurant on site with nice meals."
Darren Cope
"Called in on our way home from Cornwall as it breaks the journey up.
Only 10 minutes from junction 25 of the M5 and fairly straightforward to get here. We arrived around 11am and it was quite busy but still able to get a space.. Headed to cafe and had a nice pot of tea and cheese scone..(scone nice and warm but butter was too hard to spread,needed to soften first).scummy though.
We then visited the house and we're greeted by some friendly ladies who gave us some information sheets to read on the brief history of the house. Most of the rooms are empty from furniture but their are display cabinets with items to view and loads of pictures and history facts to read.
We walked the gardens at the front of house and then headed round past the orangery and walked all the way to the top of vast rear gardens and back down the other side which is higher up and you can look down from above the water cascade ,which unfortunately this time had no water running down for full impact..quite rough and steep in places but not too bad ."
Paul Slade
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hestercombe House and Gardens is conveniently located just 10 minutes from Junction 25 of the M5 motorway. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. For public transport, you can take a train to Taunton and then a local bus or taxi to Hestercombe.
Yes, there is parking available at Hestercombe House and Gardens. It can get busy, especially during peak times, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended.
While driving is the most convenient, you can reach Hestercombe via public transport. Take a train to Taunton and then arrange a taxi or local bus service to the gardens.
Information on EV charging points is not widely available, so it's advisable to check the official Hestercombe website or contact them directly if this is a concern.
Yes, it's straightforward to find from the M5, being only 10 minutes from Junction 25. Follow the signs for Hestercombe.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hestercombe House and Gardens typically opens daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Hestercombe website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Admission fees apply for the gardens. Prices can vary, and it's recommended to check the Hestercombe website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts.
Yes, you can visit The Stables cafe without purchasing garden entry tickets. This is a great option if you're just looking for refreshments or a light meal.
Hestercombe hosts various events throughout the year, including Christmas illuminations 
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is often recommended, especially for special events or during peak visiting seasons, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Hestercombe's gardens have hilly and rough terrain in many areas, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, there are some accessible trails suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, so it's advisable to consult the accessibility map on their website.
Yes, Hestercombe is dog-friendly, and well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens. This makes it a great destination for a walk with your pet.
Hestercombe House is currently undergoing renovation, but it offers an insight into its past. You can explore the ground floor and a few rooms upstairs, with displays of historical items, pictures, and facts.
Most visitors spend a few hours exploring the gardens and house. If you plan to enjoy a meal at the cafe or attend an event, you might want to allocate more time.
Information on regular guided tours is not always prominent, but talks by experts, such as those on Gertrude Jekyll's gardens, are sometimes offered.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Stables restaurant offers a range of meals, including vegan options, and is independently run.+1 They also serve hot drinks and cakes, perfect for an afternoon treat.
Yes, the cafe at Hestercombe does offer vegan options, such as pea soup and beetroot falafel salad. However, the variety might be limited, so it's good to check their current menu.
The cafe is generally considered fairly priced,+1 offering good value for the quality of food and the beautiful surroundings.
Yes, visitors can bring their own food and have a picnic. Some reviewers mention bringing their own food instead of using the cafe.
Reviews are mixed, with some praising the meals and cakes, while others note issues like dry bread or potentially pre-made falafel.
The service is generally described as good.
📸 📸 Photography
Hestercombe House and Gardens is a photographer's playground.
While some professional drone footage exists,
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for photography. However, the gardens are also stunning on overcast days, which can provide softer, more even lighting, and during evening illuminations.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial or professional shoots, especially weddings,
Hestercombe is ideal for landscape, garden, architectural, and portrait photography. It's also a very popular venue for wedding photography due to its diverse and picturesque settings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The gardens offer space to explore, and the landscape garden can feel like an adventure. However, be mindful of the terrain; some paths are steep and rough, which might be challenging for very young children or strollers.🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers and Art Lovers
+1 The changing seasons and special events like illuminations +1 provide continuous opportunities for stunning shots. Art lovers will appreciate the historical significance of the Lutyens and Jekyll collaboration.💍 Couples and Wedding Seekers
+1 offering a romantic setting with its elegant house and diverse gardens. Couples looking for a picturesque location for photos or even a wedding ceremony will find plenty of charm. The gardens provide intimate spots for strolls, making it a lovely destination for a romantic day out.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Design Legacy of Lutyens and Jekyll
Lutyens's architectural elements are evident in the pergolas, rills, seats, staircases, and pools that define the formal garden spaces. These features provide a strong framework and visual interest, guiding visitors through the landscape. Jekyll's contribution lies in her masterful use of color, texture, and plant combinations, creating a vibrant and immersive sensory experience. Her planting schemes are designed to evolve throughout the seasons, offering continuous beauty and delight.
Visitors can explore the distinct styles of both designers, appreciating how their individual talents merged to create a cohesive and breathtaking garden. The interplay between Lutyens's hard landscaping and Jekyll's soft planting is a key reason why Hestercombe is considered a significant example of early 20th-century garden design.
Exploring the Gardens: A Journey Through Landscapes
Venturing into the landscape garden reveals a different character. This area features temples, a striking waterfall (though its flow can vary with rainfall
Whether you're drawn to the structured beauty of the formal beds or the wilder charm of the landscape, Hestercombe's gardens provide a rich and varied experience. The inclusion of elements like the orangery and various follies further enhances the sense of exploration and wonder for visitors of all ages.
Hestercombe Through the Seasons and for Events
while summer offers lush greenery and the possibility of evening light trails. Autumn paints the landscape in rich hues, and winter can bring a magical atmosphere, especially during the popular Christmas illuminations.The venue is also a sought-after location for special events, most notably weddings. Its stunning architecture and diverse garden settings provide a picturesque backdrop for ceremonies and receptions.
+1 The house and gardens are frequently praised by wedding photographers for the endless photo opportunities they present. Beyond weddings, Hestercombe also hosts other events, such as talks by garden experts and seasonal celebrations like Father Christmas visits.
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