Somerset

Spring flowers at Lytes Cary Manor

From Tudor houses and hidden gardens to tors, gorges and natural piers

Places to visit

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Coronavirus update 

From end of Tuesday 24 March, we closed all our car parks to further restrict the spread of coronavirus. This followed the decision to close our parks and gardens in addition to our houses, shops and cafes. We urge people to stay local and observe social distancing. Please do not travel.

Check our latest statement
Brent geese at Studland Bay, Dorset

A healthy, natural and beautiful environment in the South West 

We’re doing everything we can to make space for nature in the countryside, thanks to your support

Creating space for nature
Visitors on a guided spring walk

What's on 

There are hundreds of events happening across the South West, including events for Mother's Day, school holiday fun, and guided walks and talks.

Find an event

Getting a fix of nature from your home

The Inner Ward of Corfe Castle looking across to Poole Harbour

Sleeping through the ages 

How did you sleep last night? Did you have a nice quiet room to yourself? A comfy mattress? Such luxurious solitude we take for granted. Martin Papworth, National Trust archaeologist, takes a look at our houses where we glimpse an older, more communal lifestyle.

The garden at Overbecks

A guide to caring for exotic plants 

While the ‘#urbanjungle’ hashtag has become ubiquitous with social media, there’s one special place in Devon that started embracing this trend over 100 years before Instagram. Overbeck’s has been home to plants from all corners of the globe since the 19th century. So, how do the garden team care for these unusual plants, and could they lend some tips to help you care for your own exotic plants?

A view of the coastline from the summit of Golden Cap, Dorset, at dawn

The power of books and the English landscape 

Extraordinary books can transport us and take us beyond ourselves - and some even transport us to recognisable places from around the South West. Archaeologist Martin Papworth reflects on the beauty of the English countryside as portrayed in literature, through four of his must-reads.

Visitors at Dunster Castle, Somerset.
Walking trail 

Somerset spring walks

From castles, to moorland, to cities, to coast, there are so many walks to enjoy in and around Somerset as spring blooms.

Plan your walk

Social Media

We love talking to our supporters, after all we wouldn't be here without you. Join our communities where we talk about coast, countryside, caring for houses, gardens & woods in the South West (and the odd slice of cake).