Visitors enticed by Somerset's glorious gardens

Gardening has flourished for centuries in Somerset where countless glorious gardens lie tucked away in the peaceful countryside. Twelve of these wonderful places, most of which are located in South Somerset, are featured in the 2008 Classic Gardens leaflet, intended to entice plant lovers to explore their many landscapes throughout the seasons.

Whether large or small, formal or informal, each of these classic gardens is amongst the best of its type lovingly created by inspired gardeners such as the late Margery Fish, Gertrude Jekyll, Sir Edwin Lutyens and Phyllis Reiss. They appeal to the deep-rooted passion that the English have for nurturing their own land.

Open all year round are the 30 acres of magnificent gardens surrounding 12th century Forde Abbey, near Chard where herbaceous borders flourish beside ancient walls, and the internationally famous, grade I listed English cottage garden at East Lambrook Manor, South Petherton. Designed by the late gardening icon, Margery Fish whose informal style has influenced gardening today, East Lambrook is also home to an extensive collection of hardy geraniums.

Well worth exploring too are the themed ‘rooms’ in Barrington Court’s walled garden; herbs and scented flowers at Lower Severalls and the hidden paths enclosed by high hedges and profuse borders surrounding the National Trust property of Lytes Cary Manor, once home of medieval herbalist Henry Lyte. At Tintinhull seven different, but harmonizing, gardens designed by Phyllis Reiss integrate with the small manor house while at Cothay Manor many garden rooms are set off a 200-yard yew walk.

The helpful Classic Gardens leaflet includes a colourful description of each garden together with details of opening times and whether they offer refreshment facilities, disabled access and plant sales. There is also a map showing the location of the gardens.

Information from the Classic Gardens of Somerset leaflet and accommodation suggestions can be downloaded from visitsouthsomerset.com. Copies of the printed guide are also available free from Tourist Information Centres in South Somerset.