Stylish self-catering holidays and short breaks in Somerset
The Best National Trust Gardens to Visit in Somerset & Wiltshire
Would you like to immerse yourself in the some breathtaking National Trust gardens in the South West UK?
Discover my own personal collection of breathtaking National Trust gardens that promises everyone an unforgettable experience. From the magnificent Tyntesfield House Gardens in Bristol to the hidden gem of Tintinhull Garden near Yeovil, these meticulously maintained gardens offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
So, get ready to explore the best National Trust gardens in Somerset and Wiltshire and create some very cherished memories amidst some very stunning landscapes.
Tyntesfield National Trust Park and Gardens
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If you're in the Bristol area then I'd say it's worth checking out Tyntesfield House Gardens, a magnificent Victorian Gothic Revival treasure surrounded by 540 acres of enchanting gardens and timeless parkland. It’s located right on Bristol's doorstep!
This National Trust property boasts beautiful gardens, including a wonderful rose garden, perfect for leisurely walks in the sun. With its well-maintained grounds and pleasant nature walks, I think it's an ideal spot for families. To beat the weekend crowds, I'd recommend you arrive early to enjoy it at its best.
There's 3 play areas and den building in the woodland too, ensuring your kids can get plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs and explore. Two charming cafes are also available offering refreshments and a farm shop selling delicious treats to help you refuel and recharge.
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/bath-bristol/tyntesfield
Address: 64 Stable Yd, Tyntesfield, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1NS
Opening Hours: Gardens open from 10am to 5pm
Distance from us: 30 miles – 1 hour 8 minutes drive
Montacute House, just West of Yeovil, Somerset
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I've always thought Montacute House with its rich history and remarkable beauty to be a true gem among Elizabethan houses in England.
I've always admired their beautiful gardens offering extensive views, simply breathtaking. You can take a leisurely stroll through the well-maintained grounds and there’s usuallyh plenty of spots to enjoy a delightful picnic as well as a café if you forget to bring lunch! Do note that the on-site cafe is a popular spot so to avoid the crowds, I’d say it's best to drop in early for a cuppa!
Steeped in history and maintained to the highest standards by the National Trust, Montacute House is a family-friendly destination that offers something for everyone. In our family’s own experience this Elizabethan House and Garden is certainly worth a visit whilst you’re on holiday in Somerset.
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/somerset/montacute-house
Address: Montacute House, Montacute, Somerset, TA15 6XP
Opening Hours: Gardens open from 10am to 6pm in the Summer (till 5pm in the Winter)
Distance from us: 40 miles – 53 minutes drive
Stourhead Gardens
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Just over the Wiltshire border (close to us) is the truly stunning Stourhead Gardens, a beautiful National Trust property that I promise is a delight for everyone.
You can take a walk around their stunning lake and explore the gardens with their caves, tunnels, and bridges - it all adds a touch of extra adventure!
Treat yourself to ice cream from one of the two shops or relax with a pint at the on-site pub. I'm not aware of any other pubs on National Trust property so this seems to be a real treat.
In our experience Stourhead Gardens is an ideal destination for a family outing in Wiltshire. You can easily while away a few hours exploring the wonders of nature and creating cherished memories with your loved ones.
Conveniently, there is a large car park available to ensure a hassle-free visit, allowing you to fully enjoy your time in this remarkable place. Highly recommended by many, Stourhead Gardens has rightfully earned its reputation as one of our favorite National Trust destinations.
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wiltshire/stourhead
Address: Stourton, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 6QF
Opening Hours: Gardens open from 9.00am to 4.30pm
Distance from us: 14 miles - 23 minute drive
Great Chalfield Manor and Gardens
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Chalfield Manor and Gardens is a stunning National Trust property just 30 minutes north of us, close to Melksham in Wiltshire. Built in the late 1400s, you'll find it nestled in a really picturesque setting that offers a delightful experience.
Despite its small size, Chalfield Manor and Gardens never fails to impress me. The gardens, though not the biggest, are stunning to wander through and admire. I thought the colourful borders add a vibrant touch, while their rose gardens never cease to amaze me. Certainly shows this small but well-kept National Trust garden reflects the care and attention it receives, ensuring a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.
Adjacent to the garden is a small self-service cafe with an honesty box (a nice touch), allowing you to enjoy a light refreshment at your convenience. It's a quaint spot to recharge and soak in the ambiance of the property.
It's worth noting that parking can be problematic due to limited space - you have to park outside on the verge and there's not a huge amount of parking. To ensure a hassle-free visit, I’d recommend you arrive early and secure a spot but if you can't you might just have to park further away and walk in.
I'd say that Chalfield Manor and Gardens is a hidden National Trust garden in Wiltshire that promises a unique experience. Immerse yourself in its history, marvel at the stunning gardens and you'll find solace in this lovely peaceful place.
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wiltshire/great-chalfield-manor-and-garden
Address: Atworth, Melksham, Wiltshire, SN12 8NH
Opening Hours: Gardens open from 11.00am to 4.00pm
Distance from us: 12 miles - 31 minute drive
Tintinhull Garden
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I’ll let you in on a local Somerset "secret" - Tintinhull House down by Yeovil. It’s a seductively charming destination featuring a small 20th-century garden surrounding a Grade I listed 17th-century house. This “hidden gem” of mine attracts over 25,000 visitors each year, offering a tranquil and captivating experience. If I ever get the rare chance, I try to sneak away just to spend some quality time here, it’s a great place to quietly recharge my batteries.
While the gardens may be smaller compared to other National Trust properties in Somerset and Wiltshire, they are still a delightful place for a leisurely stroll or to simply sit back and watch the world go by. The gardens take centre stage, captivating visitors with its ample space and picturesque vistas. Quite simply it's a haven that never fails to enchant me.
The house, a popular attraction, must be booked months in advance for those eager to delve into its historical interiors. However, for many people, the small garden totally steals the show, as there is always something new to discover. Its ever-changing beauty ensures a captivating experience, no matter the time of year.
Oh and don't miss their lovely kitchen garden, brimming with charm, I think it offers a culinary glimpse into the past.
Tintinhull House and Garden is a perfect spot to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings and enjoy a peaceful escape for even just a moment in time.
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/somerset/tintinhull-garden
Address: Farm Street, Tintinhull, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 8PZ
Opening Hours: Gardens open from 11.00am to 4.00pm
Distance from us: 37 miles - 48 minute drive
Prior Park Landscape Garden
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Prior Park Landscape Garden in Bath is a true classic of the 18th century, meticulously designed by the poet Alexander Pope and landscape gardener Capability Brown. Now under the ownership of the National Trust, this enchanting destination offers a captivating visitor experience.
As you explore the park, you'll be mesmerised by the picturesque valley that gracefully rolls down to the serene lakes, adorned with an ornate Palladian bridge. The bridge itself is an absolute sight to behold, its beauty perfectly complements its surrounding landscape.
There’s no parking available on site other than a few blue badge disabled spaces for those in need. I’d also say that the hillside garden is a bit steep, in at least a few places, which sadly may limit accessibility for some. However, there’s a good number of benches that seem to have been strategically placed, allowing everyone to rest and appreciate the stunning vistas.
When you reach the top of the garden, you'll find a convenient takeaway cafe near a cascading waterfall. It's the perfect spot to refuel and enjoy a moment of tranquility.
If you're up for a longer adventure, there's a 2-mile circular trail that offers incredible views. The last section involves a steep climb, but fear not, as there's a secret exit at the bottom of the park, allowing you to escape back down into city itself.
It's hard to believe that this park is just 2 miles away from Bath city centre. While you can walk to Prior Park, I’d advise you take the bus and save your legs!
Prior Park Landscape Garden is a haven of natural beauty with its breath taking views over Bath, it’s worth a visit.
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/somerset/tintinhull-garden
Address: Ralph Allen Dr, Bath, BA2 5AH
Opening Hours: Gardens open from 10.00am to 5.00pm
Distance from us: 13 miles - 25 minute drive
The Courts Garden, Wiltshire
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Located in Holt, near Bradford on Avon lies a Grade II listed English country garden. This delightful haven, owned by the National Trust since 1943, offers visitors a fantastic escape from the stresses of modern life.
Boasting an array of varied gardens that always capitivates my senses, it’s a paradise of tranquility, offering a serene atmosphere to destress and unwind in. The Courts Garden features lily ponds, attractive flower beds as well as an enchanting orchard.
While parking is not available on site, there is ample parking opposite, ensuring a hassle-free visit.
Although the house itself is not open to the public, you can still enjoy the National Trust garden and all its wonders. A tea room at the back of the house provides coffees and teas, providing a lovely spot to relax and indulge in refreshments.
You can also enjoy a leisurely picnic in this idyllic setting and on the times I’ve been it’s never felt overcrowded. I have to say it ticks my box!
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wiltshire/the-courts-garden
Address: Holt, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, BA14 6RR
Opening Hours: Gardens open from 10.30am to 5.00pm
Distance from us: 11 miles - 26 minute drive
Dinton Park and Phipps House
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Nestled in the beautiful Nadder Valley, Dinton Park and Phipps House offer a lovely place for a leisurely stroll through its vast grounds. Easily accessible and well-known for its incredible scenery, this tranquil haven – built in the early 1900s - allows you to immerse yourself in the charm of the Wiltshire countryside.
As you explore you’ll easily find yourself captivated by sweeping views of the Neo-Grecian house and the local landscape. The open parkland provides ample space to wander and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you. The small lake is particularly enchanting which all just adds to the experience.
While the house itself remains private and is not open to the public, the vast grounds offer plenty to explore and enjoy. The peaceful ambiance of Dinton Park and Phipps House lends itself to being a quiet place to relax.
Situated close to the picturesque villages of Dinton, Teffont Evias, and Teffont Magna, this charming destination is a perfect starting point for discovering the local area. After your walk, you can explore these delightful villages, each with its own unique character and charm.
There’s a small but free car park to use as well, though do note there are no refreshment facilities either so take a picnic with you!
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wiltshire/dinton-park-and-philipps-house
Address: Dinton, Salisbury, SP3 5HH
Opening Hours: Gardens open from dawn to dusk
Distance from us: 23 miles - 35 minute drive
That rounds up my post on the best National Trust Gardens that we as a family love to visit in Somerset and Wiltshire. If I've missed one and you'd like it included please do get in touch!
Sally