Below are some of the reviews we have received from past guests…
National Trust Treasures: Exploring Stourhead and Montacute House from Beanacre Barn
Summer is a truly magnificent time to visit Somerset. When the bright July sun shines on the old stone walls of Beanacre Barn, it is hard to imagine a more idyllic spot to begin your day. Many of our guests arrive with a desire to explore the rich history and glorious landscapes of the West Country, seeking a balance between peaceful relaxation and cultural discovery. If you have an appreciation for historic homes and spectacular gardens, you will be delighted to know that two of the finest National Trust properties in the country are well within reach for an effortless and scenic day trip.
A Journey into Landscape Design at Stourhead
Just a forty-five-minute drive from the barn, winding through the beautiful Somerset countryside, Stourhead offers an unforgettable experience. At its heart lies a magnificent Palladian house, but it is the world-famous landscape garden that truly captures the imagination of those who visit. First opened in the eighteenth century, the grounds were designed by Henry Hoare II to feel like a living classical painting, and they remain a masterpiece of landscape architecture.
During the summer months, the lush green canopy of the trees reflects beautifully upon the vast central lake, creating a wonderfully tranquil atmosphere. You can take a leisurely stroll along the water's edge, pausing to admire the classical temples, the striking Palladian Bridge, and the mystical grottoes that appear around almost every corner. The sheer scale of the estate means that even on a beautiful summer day, it is easy to find a quiet spot to pause, take in the views, and perhaps enjoy a light picnic.
Elizabethan Grandeur at Montacute House
Heading slightly further south, roughly fifty minutes from Binegar, brings you to the magnificent Montacute House. This property is a masterpiece of Elizabethan Renaissance architecture, constructed from glowing local ham stone that looks particularly beautiful in the summer light. As you approach the towering, glass-filled facade, you are instantly transported back to the late sixteenth century.
Inside, the Long Gallery is a particular highlight. It is the longest of its kind in England and famously houses a remarkable collection of Tudor and Elizabethan portraits, on loan from the National Portrait Gallery. Exploring the rooms gives a fascinating insight into the grandeur of the period. Outside, the formal gardens are equally impressive. They feature manicured lawns, striking topiary, and lovely herbaceous borders that burst with colour throughout July. It is a spectacular setting for a slow, appreciative wander before making your way back to the Mendip Hills.
Returning to Your Peaceful Retreat
After a day spent walking the grand halls and extensive grounds of these historic treasures, returning to the quiet sanctuary of Beanacre Barn is always a pleasure. Our guests frequently tell us how much they value the peace and quiet here, often describing the barn as a perfect base for their roaming around Somerset. You can pull straight up to the door, perhaps plug into our EV charging point, and step inside to the cool, welcoming comfort of the original flagstone floors.
As the summer evening draws in, there is nothing quite like pouring a glass of something cold and stepping out into your own private walled cottage garden to catch the last of the sunshine. With no children or pets on site, you are guaranteed an entirely restful end to your day.
Check our availability and book your historic Somerset getaway today.
A Taste of Somerset: Local Flavours to Try During Your Stay
There is something quite wonderful about arriving in Somerset during the height of summer. The Mendip Hills are awash with colour, the evenings are wonderfully long, and the local landscape feels alive. But beyond the beautiful scenery and historic sites, one of the greatest joys of visiting our beautiful county is the food. Somerset has a rich, proud agricultural heritage, and our local produce is truly second to none.
Whether you are returning from a day exploring the magnificent Cathedral in Wells or simply taking a slow, peaceful morning enjoying the sunshine in our walled cottage garden, having some local flavours on hand makes a holiday feel truly special.
The Cheese That Needs No Introduction
You simply cannot visit our part of the world without sampling genuine Somerset Cheddar. Just a short drive from Beanacre Barn lies Cheddar Gorge, the spectacular limestone ravine where this famous cheese originated. While you can find cheddar in any supermarket across the country, tasting authentic, cave-aged cheddar from the source is a completely different experience. It has a robust, complex flavour and a wonderful crumbly texture that you will instantly fall in love with.
We highly recommend picking up a block or two during your travels. It forms the perfect centrepiece for a traditional ploughman's lunch. Picture a warm July afternoon, sitting out on the private patio at the barn with a spread of local cheese, crusty bread, and perhaps a dollop of tangy local chutney. It is simple, unhurried, and utterly delicious.
Somerset Cider and Local Sips
Of course, a plate of local cheese requires the perfect accompaniment, and here in Somerset, cider is a way of life. The orchards of the Somerset Levels have been producing wonderful cider for centuries, ranging from traditional, cloudy scrumpy to crisp, sparkling varieties that are incredibly refreshing on a warm summer evening.
Taking a drive through the rural lanes, you will often spot signs for local cider farms, many of which welcome visitors to sample their craft. Bringing a bottle back to the barn to enjoy alongside the roaring log burner on a cooler evening, or poured over ice while you relax in the garden, is a lovely way to wind down. If cider is not to your taste, you will also find an excellent selection of locally produced apple juices, craft ales, and even Somerset wines to try.
Farm Shops and Fresh Produce
One of the greatest advantages of a self-catering holiday is the freedom to cook exactly what you fancy, whenever it suits you. Beanacre Barn was lovingly converted with comfort in mind, and the kitchen is excellently equipped with a ceramic hob, fan oven, and plenty of space to prepare a feast.
To make the most of this, we always suggest taking a detour to one of the fantastic farm shops scattered across the Mendips. Here, you can gather seasonal summer vegetables, wonderful local meats, and freshly baked goods. Cooking a meal together using ingredients grown just a few miles away is a wonderful way to connect with the local area.
We would love to know what you are most looking forward to tasting. Do you have a favourite Somerset delicacy? Please do share it in the comments below. If you are looking for a peaceful, perfectly equipped base for your next culinary adventure, Beanacre Barn offers a quiet, relaxing home from home. We invite you to view the property and check our availability for your next countryside escape.
Fred and Paulien, Doorn, Holland – June 2026
Wij hebben (Juni 2026) drie heerlijke weken gehad in Beanacre Barn! Mooie cottage, tuin en prachtige omgeving. Wandelen over de Cheddar Gorge is een aanrader! Susan en Tony zijn geweldige hosts. We komen zeker terug!!
Translation:
We spent three wonderful weeks (June 2026) at Beanacre Barn! A lovely cottage and garden, and a beautiful setting. Hiking at Cheddar Gorge is highly recommended! Susan and Tony are wonderful hosts. We will definitely be back!!
Bridget, Kent – March 2026
We really enjoyed our stay at this attractive rural property with its pretty garden. The accommodation is very spacious for a one bedroom property and there's plenty to do and see in the area.
Jane & Max, Conwy, North Wales – September 2025
"After busy days exploring this wonderful area, it was lovely to come back to this beautiful, comfortable, well equipped cottage! Many thanks, Tony and Susan."
Anne-Mieke & Hans, The Netherlands – August 2025
"After business in bustling Cardiff, a perfect place to relax! What a nice Barn and a beautiful garden!
You made us feel so welcome - Thank you"
Fran & John, Bracknell – June 2025
"We have had a wonderful time here. Beanacre Barn is perfect - - - soooo quiet! 💜"
Deb & Dave, Sydney Australia – June 2025
"We loved staying at Beanacre Barn. We are sad to leave this beautiful barn and Somerset!
Dave grew up in Oakhill, the next village!"
Alan & Liz, Stratford-upon-Avon – May 2025
We have had a wonderful week in Somerset, in a wonderful cottage with wonderful hosts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . and we had wonderful weather!
Neil, Berkshire – July 2024
From the first, walking in to Beanacre Barn, we felt at home. Everything you could possibly want for a lovely holiday, was there. Really looking forward to going back next year. Somerset is a beautiful county. We had the most perfect week.
Monika & Joachim, Germany – June 2024
We can highly recommend this lovingly converted barn! It has everything you need to feel at home and is equipped to a high standard. A very special highlight is the beautiful garden. Susan and Tony are very discreet and helpful hosts.
Andy & Nell, Isle of Man – October 2023
Beanacre Barn has been a perfect base for our roaming around Somerset.
Very clean, spacious, well equipped and so peaceful. Thank you!
Nick & Ann, Cheshire – September 2023
We have had a wonderful holiday in Somerset, made all the more enjoyable by the comfort of Beanacre Barn and the kindness of our hosts. Thank you!
Val & Doug, Kent – August 2023
We're sorry to be going home!
We have really loved the Barn and the quiet
- just what we needed!
Neil & Pat, Isle of North Uist, Outer Hebrides – December 2022
A wonderful base while visiting family. Barn is so sympathetically converted, interior beautiful.
Looking forward to a re-visit to fully explore the area.
Jane & Tim, Rutland – March 2023
Not a thing is missed in the inventory of holiday comfort.
A beautifully presented home from home!
Stephanie & Philippe, France – January 2023
As promised we returned for a 'winter stay' after our first last July.
So glad we did, the Barn has been as cosy and comfy as we anticipated!
Graham & Janet, Essex – August 2021
It has been a joy to be back after lockdown time!
The barn is such a special place for us, as are the wonderful hosts! We leave renewed and refreshed ... anticipating our next visit which is already booked!
Stephanie & Philippe, France – July 2022
More than a base for our hill-walking in the Mendips, this has been a wonderful holiday home.
So comfortable and peaceful - all was perfect!
Bob & Julia, East Sussex – March 2022
"Beanacre is so spacious and comfortable!
Visited several NT properties, enjoying the countryside and pretty villages on the way!"
P & E, Germany
"We've been in England several times but this place is the most beautiful we've ever been.
Thank you for your warm welcome and hospitality!"
Ken & Maureen, East Sussex – September 2013
"Beautiful cottage, everything we needed and spotlessly clean.
A really relaxing holiday. Thanks"
Debbie & Steve, West Australia – September 2012
"We have really enjoyed our 3 week stay in the Barn. Fabulous accommodation and hospitality. From breakfast in the garden at the start of our stay to cosy nights by the log fire at the end. It's a great spot from which to explore this part of the world."
John, Chicago, USA October 2021
Wonderful cottage accommodation and exceptionally hospitable hosts. Thank you Susan & Tony!
Craig & Celia, Hertfordshire, August 2021
We had a wonderful time at Beanacre Barn! The lovely weather allowed us to make the most of this excellent location and then we enjoyed coming back to this peaceful delightful barn.
The barn is spotless, beds comfortable and hosts terrific!
Lorraine and Alan, Essex – July 2021
Thank you for providing such great holiday accommodation! Your warm welcome was much appreciated.
The lovely Barn was spotless and the garden is outstanding.
Steve & Linda, Yorkshire – April 2021
A delightful cottage! The lovely garden has been a real treat for us to enjoy.
“Trespassers W”, Kent – September 2020
"The care & thought in the design, layout and construction together with facilities to meet every need and the touches of art make it a beautiful, snug home from home. Then of course there is the garden - wonderful!"
Roger & Janet, South Glamorgan – September 2020
"We had a great time at the Barn!
We were very happy with the enhanced safety measures, necessary at this time!"
Mark & Sharon, Lancashire – July 2020
"The Barn is great and the garden is fantastic! Just the kind of peace and quiet we needed.
It's a perfect place to escape from it all!
John & Denise, Kent – September 2019
"Thank you for the warm welcome and for such a beautiful, peaceful place to refresh our souls!
Superlatives are the order of the day - no wonder the Gold Award!"
Wendelien & Edwin, Holland – July 2019
"We had the best time of our UK holiday in the Beanacre Barn!
Thank you."
Carole & Clive, returning from New Zealand! – March 2019
"What a wonderful gem of a place!
Peaceful and cosy with every amenity and a beautiful garden, topped off by amazing hospitality from Susan and Tony!"
Julie & Mervyn
"Beautiful place, comfy, cosy, relaxing. A lovely stay with everything we need.
Lovely to see sheep outside the window!"
Paul & Sjanelien, Holland
"What a lovely time we had!
Every day breakfast on the terrace with a view of the beautiful garden! Thank you for your hospitality."
David & Brenda, Lancashire
"What a find! Thank you for the warm welcome and for making the Barn such a comfortable place in which to stay.
We have had a wonderful week visiting the very many interesting places in the area."
