Spring is well and truly upon us here on the Mendip Hills, and May / June is arguably one of the most glorious times to visit Somerset. If you enjoy visiting historic houses and glorious gardens, Beanacre Barn is brilliantly placed for a special day out.
Just a short scenic drive from the Barn, you will find so many of the country’s most spectacular National Trust properties. One of our absolute favourites for a spring visit is Stourhead. While famous for its autumn colours, its world-renowned landscape garden is a stunning experience in May, when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in full, vibrant bloom. Take the walk around the central lake, past the classical temples and grottoes, to enjoy the every changing views of this grand classical garden.
If you prefer something a little more intimate, Lytes Cary Manor is a wonderful medieval manor house with an enchanting Arts and Crafts garden. It is wonderfully peaceful, and a lovely spot to wander through the topiary and herbaceous borders before stopping for a well-deserved pot of tea and a slice of cake in their tearoom.
Grand Architecture and Local Legends
For those who appreciate dramatic architecture, Tyntesfield is an absolute must-visit. Located just up the road towards Bristol, this spectacular Victorian Gothic Revival house is a marvel of carved stone, stained glass, and sheer Victorian extravagance. The estate is vast, with beautiful terraced gardens, an empty lake, and a working kitchen garden that supplies the estate café.
Tyntesfield House & Garden (NT)
Of course, you cannot talk about our local area without mentioning Glastonbury Tor. Now cared for by the National Trust, this iconic Somerset landmark is steeped in myths and legends. It is a brisk, steep walk to the top, but you are rewarded with sweeping, panoramic views across the Somerset Levels. On a clear spring day, there is quite simply nowhere better to sit and take in the sheer scale of the county.
Glastonbury Tor
If you fancy pairing your National Trust visits with a bit of city exploring, Prior Park Landscape Garden in Bath is another fantastic choice. You could spend the morning enjoying the Georgian architecture of Bath, which is just thirteen miles from the barn, and the afternoon escaping the bustle in this tranquil green valley.Set in a sweeping valley just above the city, it features one of only four Palladian bridges of its kind in the world.
After a long day of walking, exploring, and soaking up all that local history, returning to the quiet of Beanacre Barn is a real treat. You can pull straight up to the front door, plug your car into our Zappi EV charger, (if appropriate) and relax. Why not then enjoy a glass of something cold in the private, walled cottage garden as the sun goes down, it is the perfect way to end the day.
If a peaceful countryside escape sounds like just what you need, we would love to welcome you. Do take a look at our website to view the Barn, see our full list of facilities, and check our upcoming availability for your next getaway.
