Visit some of the top gardens of Somerset with David Domoney
SOMERSET is a gardenlover’s dream destination, with a fabulous variety of stunning places to visit. From manicured countryhouse gardens to cottage plots with lush flowerbeds and edible plants, there’s so much for the green-fingered to see and do in this colourful county.
Our tailor-made five-day itinerary has been designed to give you a real taste of Somerset life, with trips to several of the area’s pictureperfect gardens and an inspiring talk from leading horticulturist David Domoney.
Among the many highlights of the trip are visits to Lytes Cary Manor with its Arts and Crafts-inspired gardens; the tranquil Tintinhull Garden in the grounds of a grand Tudor manor house; historic Hestercombe House, whose gardens date back to medieval times; and Bishop’s Palace gardens, adjacent to Wells Cathedral.
Also on the itinerary is a visit to Batcombe House, with its herbaceous borders and ornamental kitchen garden. Here you’ll be joined by David Domoney for a special tour, and later he’ll join you again for a delicious three-course lunch where he will give a talk and answer your questions.
You’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable tour manager Sally Nex, an expert in sustainable gardening. She will give you fascinating insights into the local area and its horticultural history.
Your base for this trip will be the spectacular, ivy-clad Castle Hotel in Taunton, a four-star retreat famed for its food.
It’s one of the UK’s most historic hotels, with parts of the building dating back some 1,000 years, and for more than 60 years it has been run by the Chapman family. You’ll have plenty of free time to enjoy the hotel and surroundings.
REASONS TO BOOK
Enjoy exclusive events with David Domoney: The celebrity horticulturist will join you for a guided tour of the beautiful gardens at Batcombe House. He will also meet you for a three-course lunch in the stylish At The Chapel restaurant in Bruton, after which he’ll give a talk and answer your queries during a Q&A session.
Stay in a historic hotel: The accommodation for your holiday is the lovely Castle Hotel in Taunton. Set in a 12th Century castle, the familyrun hotel has built a reputation for fine food and wine, comfort and attentive service.
Have a special dinner: Enjoy a delicious three-course private dinner with wine at the historic Hestercombe House & Gardens.
Explore Somerset’s most magnificent properties: Visit some of the county’s finest country houses, including Kilver Court, Lytes Cary Manor and East Lambrook Manor.
Get expert advice: As well as David, you’ll be joined by tour manager
Sally Nex – a gardening expert with inside knowledge of the local region.