48 HOURS IN… SOMERSET
IN A ROLLS-ROYCE CULLINAN
A relaxing trip – in a Rolls-royce!
GETTING THERE
As my family, and one of our kids’ friends, headed west in the Rolls-royce Cullinan SUV, to say we travelled in style is an understatement. The car is impressive outside and in, including instrument dials that look like works of art. Although we didn’t manage to venture off-road, it was clear the car could take on any terrain, as the air suspension adjusts its height automatically, thanks to a camera that scans the road, ensuring an exceptionally smooth ride. Turning heads all weekend, what a car!
WHERE TO STAY
Godney Arts House is nestled in the wilds of the Somerset Levels surrounded by peat moors, dairy farms and national wildlife reserves. Its beautiful decor is an inspired mix of eccentric and traditional; the owner’s artwork adorns the walls alongside antlers and African sculptures. Artefacts are found in every corner of the house, including a 19th-century typewriter in my son’s bedroom and a collection of yo-yos in mine. Each of the three spacious bedrooms has an en-suite bathroom, and there’s a copper roll-top bath in the master suite.
MUST-VISIT
Wookey Hole is only a 15-minute drive away, as is the city of Wells, where you can stroll around the cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace. But we chose to explore Glastonbury (also 15 minutes from Godney Arts House), where you can visit the mysterious Tor and the Abbey. We ate a healthy lunch at one of the town’s cafes, and then ambled around the shops, the children stopping at the many selling crystals, poring over all the beautifully coloured stones before finally choosing one to take home as a souvenir of our 48 hours in Somerset.
FOOD AND DRINK
The idiosyncratically decorated Sheppey Inn is practically next door to the house. Serving exceptional food, it attracts diners from miles around; expect a warm welcome and a very good glass of red to sip while you relax on the veranda overlooking the River Sheppey. Self-catering house for 8, from £140 a night (sawdays.co.uk/ godneyartshouse)