England: Somerset’s Secret Gardens
4th Jul 2026
Key Highlights
- Eclectic mix of topiary and hedging at Watcombe
- Breathtaking views of Wells and the Vale of Avalon at Stoberry
- Grade I registered garden of Iford Manor
- The hidden gem of Cannington Walled Garden
- Scenic drive through the Quantock Hills
Summary
One of England’s most scenic counties is Somerset, whose lush green pastures, orchards and little villages provide a wonderful backdrop to a most colourful and varied collection of private gardens at a time when they will be looking at their absolute best.
We begin with a visit to Watcombe, an idyllic rural garden with a sublime mix of thoughtful planting. The same can be said of Batcombe House, an outstanding plantswoman’s garden in two parts, one a riot of colour, the other an oasis of contemporary calm. After some free time in the cathedral city of Wells we visit Stoberry a sympathetically planted garden with breathtaking views over the Vale of Avalon. Closer to our base in North Petherton we call Bradon Farm, a classic formal garden with good use of structure and later we visit the Grade I registered garden of Iford Manor with its romantic design and architecture.
Finally, after a scenic drive through the Quantock Hills, we visit the Walled Gardens of Cannington, which has both classic and contemporary features.
What's included
- Three nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast at the Walnut Tree, North Petherton (or similar)
- Comfortable coaching throughout
- All visits as outlined in the itinerary
- Services of a Professional tour manager
Day by Day Itinerary
We depart from our London, Reading, Swindon and Bristol pick-up points this morning and head for our first visit, the privately-owned Watcombe garden. This ¾ acre garden was created between 1937 and 1975, in an Edwardian style of formal layout and informal planting. Because different parts were acquired at different times, there is an eclectic mix of topiary, box hedging, a lime walk, pleached hornbeams, two formal ponds, mixed herbaceous borders and orchard. There are many unusual trees and shrubs, separated by a strong framework, giving scope for exploring round unexpected corners.
We then continue to our accommodation in Taunton.
Meals includedDinner
Departure Routes
| Location | Pickup Time | Dropoff Time |
|---|---|---|
| To be advised | 00:00 | 00:00 |
| London, Tothill St, Westminster | 08:00 | 21:00 |
| Reading, Sainsbury’s, Jcn 12, M4 | 09:15 | 19:45 |
| Swindon, Holiday Inn Express, Frankland Rd | 10:30 | 18:30 |
| Bristol, Bus stop outside DoubleTree Hilton, Redcliffe Way | 12:00 | 17:00 |
** Please note that all timings are approximate and subject to change. Final timings and pick-up points will be confirmed with your joining instructions approximately 10 days prior to departure. **
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