There are thousands of country houses and estates in the UK, each one full of history, stories and unique artefacts. The majority also have wonderfully landscaped grounds and gardens.
Last weekend, I was lucky enough to explore the gardens of a local manor house in a village in Somerset. The grounds of this grand estate were beautifully kept and bursting with life. Roses were everywhere, some climbing and some rambling, all in a spectrum of intense colours – from deep reds through bright pinks to softer pastels and whites. Foxgloves, lavender and bright blue hollyhocks were in full bloom and buzzing with bees and other insects.
The old stone footpaths that criss-crossed the perfectly manicured lawns led me from one walled garden to the next, through intriguing stone doorways, past gnarly old trees, immaculately planted borders and quaint gardener’s cottages. There were so many nooks and crannies to explore, I could have stayed even longer than I did, but the cream teas were calling, and who can resist that?
There’s no better time than the summer to visit country houses and gardens in South West England. And there’s no better way to experience the passion and poetry of this quintessential part of rural England than on our Country Houses & Gardens trip. Mixing tranquil walks in the countryside with visits to stunning homes and gardens, this trip gives you ample time to appreciate the landscapes and settings of the English countryside.
It’s not too late to book a walking holiday this summer through some of England’s finest country houses and landscaped gardens. Simply visit our website or send us an email. We’d love to help you plan your next walking adventure.
