Peaceful Stourhead

Stourhead, which is in the hands of the National Trust, is a fine example of an 18th century landscaped garden, laid out by the Hoare family between 1741 and 1780 and matured over a period of more than 200 years.

The winding path, which encircles the lake, presents the visitor with a different vista at every turn - temples, grottos, rare trees and shrubs appear around each corner and leave the visitor with a lasting impression.

While spring is the season to enjoy the carpets of daffodils and bluebells that adorn Stourhead's woodlands, the months before winter are the time for a colourful display of autumnal leaves, with Japanese Maples adding a splash of red amongst the orange and yellow of autumn.

For those who want a little magic, Stourhead's enchanting grotto will transport you to a dark, underworld kingdom dominated by pools of water and a rather stern-looking river god.

Beyond the grotto, The Pantheon and Temple of Apollo, designed by Henry Flitcroft - the only professional enganged in Stourhead's landcaping - dominate the scene and add a very classical signature to the surroundings.

Activities to enjoy during the autumn and winter months at Stourhead Gardens include several "Winter Warmers", where there's an invitation to walk the Garden and then warm yourself by the fireside in the Gothic Cottage.

Stourhead House is 'put to bed' for the winter months, and visitors in early November can see how National Trust staff prepare the house for hibernation.

As well as loosing yourself in Stourhead's Garden, waymarked paths lead you into the wider Stourhead landscape.

A popular attraction is King Alfred’s Tower, a folly built by Flitcroft in the late 18th Century and which still stands tall amongst the surrounding trees and looks out towards the downland beyond.

For those who have an interest in the Iron Age, there are two hill-forts, Whitesheet Hill and Park Hill Camp close by.

After enjoying the Gardens and estate at Stourhead, a new restaurant will provide some warming sustenance, while a National Trust shop and plant centre gives the visitor a chance to take home a momento of their time at Stourhead.