Wolf Hall a new television series for the new year filmed a short distance from Withy Cottages at Montacute House and Barrington Court, National Trust properties will take centre stage in the six-part BBC dramatisation of Hilary Mantel’s critically acclaimed Wolf Hall, starring Mark Rylance as Thomas Cromwell and Damian Lewis as Henry VIII, and directed by Bafta-winner Peter Kosminksy.
Wool-merchant’s house of circa 1500 This early Tudor timber-framed wool merchant’s house (circa 1500) provides a fascinating insight into local history. Its strong medieval character is enhanced by the appearance of arcaded stalls opening onto the street on the ground floor (recreated by the National Trust during the building’s restoration). Please note:King John’s Hunting lodge … Read more
Explore a lost garden Fyne Court is a lost garden, taken over by nature. Wander through the enchanting landscape, looking out for the boathouse and the folly. Play with the variety of games on offer in the courtyard, build a den or climb the fallen chestnut tree. Fyne Court was the home of the Crosse … Read more
Prominent hill overlooking the Isle of Avalon, Glastonbury and Somerset This iconic and evocative landmark offers magnificent views of the Somerset Levels, Dorset, Wiltshire and Wales. Steeped in history and legend, excavations at the top of the Tor have revealed the plans of two superimposed churches of St Michael, of which only a 15th-century tower … Read more
Discover the heights of Somerset’s famous Cheddar Gorge Cheddar Gorge is one of England’s most iconic and spectacular landscapes. We are really proud to own the north side of this spectacular gorge and we hope that you will enjoy exploring it in a way that suits you. At almost 400 feet deep and three miles … Read more
Home of Romantic poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge The 17th-century cottage was home to Coleridge for three years, from 1797. It was during his time here in Somerset that Coleridge wrote his finest works, including The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, Kubla Khan, Frost at Midnight, The Nightingale, Cristabel and This Lime Tree Bower my Prison. … Read more
Promontory of land with dramatic cliffs and Victorian fort Brean Down is a spectacular location for a day out in Somerset. Enjoy relaxing on the beach at the foot of the Down, building sandcastles and visiting the Cove Café for some yummy food. Take an exhilarating walk to the top of the Down and venture … Read more
An ancient castle and comfortable country home with dramatic vistas and subtropical gardens Dramatically sited on a wooded hill, a castle has existed here since at least Norman times, with an impressive medieval gatehouse and ruined tower giving a reminder of its turbulent history. The castle that you see today became a lavish country home … Read more
14th/15th-century farm buildings, formerly a priest’s residence The priests who lived here served the Chapel of St Nicholas (now destroyed). The Great Hall is open to visitors. http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stoke-sub-hamdon-priory/
Small medieval house Medieval house with Great Hall, completed 1293 – with kitchen added in the 15th century. Solar Block contains an unusual wall-painting.