Great British Gardens

Somerset and its neighbouring counties are blessed with a huge variety of splendid gardens that never fail to inspire the dedicated gardener, and lift the spirits of all who visit them. Many such beautiful places come with a cafe and/or restaurant attached so you can round of the garden tour with a delicious treat.

Stourhead Gardens, near Mere BA12 6QD, are a stunning example of the traditional the English Landscape Garden and Palladian house set in the quaint Wiltshire village of Stourhead, 40 minutes drive from Upper Vobster Farm. The romantic setting perched around the source of the River Stour never fails to inspire and amongst other claims to fame has been the classical backdrop for the filming of Pride and Prejudice in 2005.

Open from April 1st to September 30th every year, Iford Manner near Freshford BA15 2BA, is a privately owned Grade I listed garden. First established in the early 1900's by Harold Peto, this beautifully landscaped Italian inspired garden is an enchanting mix of classical structures, elegant perennial borders and mature trees, that together frame the many gorgeous views over the sleepy Somerset valley below. With a delicious cafe and restaurant on site it makes for a very leisurely day out.

Courts Gardens near Melksham, BA14 6RR, originally created at the beginning of the 20th century, is a delightful water garden was based on a Hidcote model. This seven acre site is superbly planted and carefully maintained with lop sided topiary, pools and plants typical of Arts and Crafts style gardens. Cafe and shop on site provide those additional extras that make for an enjoyable afternoon's visit.

Close to Courts Gardens sits the graceful Great Chalfield Manor and Garden, Melksham SN12 8NH. With its medieval roots the Manor and gardens have stood their ground for over 500 years. The gardens today elegantly reflect the Arts & Crafts movement with a mixture of formal planting and romantic vistas framed by apple trees, terraces, clipped hedges and perennial borders, and a spring fed fish pond. The rose adorned Tudor house is also open to visitors to enjoy. Please check opening times before venturing out.

The Italian inspired gardens of Iford Manor

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