10 Autumn Gardens To Visit

Immerse yourself in nature’s season of mists and mellow fruitfulness. Holly Louise Eels shares some of Somerset’s most glorious autumnal gardens

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1. A National Trust finest, Barrington Court is at its fruitful time of year. Its spectacular walled kitchen garden is at the peak of production, with vibrant focal points of giant pumpkins and spaghetti squash. The empty Tudor manor house, which was beautifully restored in the 1920s, boasts extensive, stunning grounds, including the impressive divided gardens that ooze seasonal quality at every turn. The phenomenal shades of flower borders will be pleasantly overflowing with hues of the season and capture the beautiful changes of autumnal tones throughout the whole of Barrington Court's grounds, which year on year are out of this world.

Barrington Court, Ilminster TA19 0NQ nationaltrust.org.uk/ barrington-court 01460 241938

2. There is so much to discover at The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens. Hidden within the ancient ramparts and protected by the moat, it boasts 14 acres of eye-catching, tranquil gardens around the medieval Palace. James Cross, head gardener at the Palace, says autumn is a colourful time at the Grade II listed venue. He explains: “We suspect that many of our Roses will still be offering a fantastic profusion of colour and perfume throughout September. During October, we will see an amazing array of bright, autumnal colours from our magnificent collection of mature specimen trees which are set within the romantic and picturesque Victorian gardens.” Perfect for a stroll with a loved one.

Bishop’s Palace Gardens, Wells BA5 2PD bishopspalace.org.uk 01749 988111