Barrington Court
A restored Tudor manor set in stunning gardens, featuring artisan studios and a rich history, even with the main house temporarily closed.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Barrington Court
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A restored Tudor manor set in stunning gardens, featuring artisan studios and a rich history, even with the main house temporarily closed.
"The gardens are beautiful and the artisan studios are a real gem for unique finds."
Check House Status First
The main house is closed for repairs. Confirm access before your visit to manage expectations.
Explore the Artisan Studios
Don't miss the unique handmade crafts! Great for gifts and supporting local artists.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Barrington Court Gardens
Various garden areas
Explore meticulously designed Tudor gardens, including the Lily Garden and White Garden, bursting with seasonal blooms.
Artisan Studios & Craft Shops
Various studios on site
Discover unique handmade crafts from local artists, from pottery to silversmithing. A true gem for unique souvenirs.
Wolf Hall Staircase
Main House (check access)
See the iconic staircase featured in the BBC's adaptation of Hilary Mantel's 'Wolf Hall'.
The 'Ha-Ha'
Grounds
Learn about this clever landscape design feature, a sunken ditch used to create an uninterrupted view.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
House Closure & Garden Focus
Best Time for Gardens & Crafts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check House Status First
The main house is closed for repairs. Confirm access before your visit to manage expectations. +1
Explore the Artisan Studios
Don't miss the unique handmade crafts! Great for gifts and supporting local artists.
Pack for All Weather
England's weather is unpredictable. Layers are key for enjoying the gardens and grounds.
Dog-Friendly Grounds
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens and grounds, perfect for a walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check House Status First
The main house is closed for repairs. Confirm access before your visit to manage expectations. +1
Explore the Artisan Studios
Don't miss the unique handmade crafts! Great for gifts and supporting local artists.
Pack for All Weather
England's weather is unpredictable. Layers are key for enjoying the gardens and grounds.
Dog-Friendly Grounds
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens and grounds, perfect for a walk.
Picnic Potential
Beautiful spots for a picnic lunch amidst the gardens. Bring your own or grab a bite at the cafe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the beautiful, well-maintained gardens and the unique artisan studios offering handmade crafts. While the main house closure due to repairs is a drawback, the grounds and creative spaces provide a fulfilling experience. The cafe offers decent refreshments, and the staff are generally helpful and knowledgeable. +4
"On arrival there were lots of spaces to park and a lovely man taking people to the entrance if needed! I opted to walk and it wasn't too far. Greeted by a lovely lady who explained where to go. Unfortunately the main house is closed for renovations but it was a great visit nonetheless. Lots to see and lovely little activities for the children. Served very quickly in the cafe and it was their lunch time rush. Lovely coffee. The NT shop is hidden away around the back but again it's a good sized shop. Definitely be back when the main house opens."
Sarah Mann
"Some beautiful gardens and an interesting story behind the houses. Some nice artisan craft shops and a second hand book shop. The cafe was a little disappointing, not a great selection of food. When we were there there was no hot food at all apart from one sausage roll. Coffee was good and we settled for a sandwich."
David Jones
"Barrington court is made of two houses set in an idyllic area of Somerset. There is ample parking just a short walk from the entrance as well as Disable parking which is closer to the gardens and houses. I listened to the history of the houses with a lady at 11:30. she knew a lot about the buildings, their history and showed us the famous staircase from #wolfhall. The gardens are beautiful. I especially liked the White garden. You will also discover what a ha ha is. I enjoyed tea at the…. Most of the young people working there say #SconeAsInGone but not Marcus, though he was nice enough to carry my cream tea outside for me. There are also several local craftsmen that produce the most wonderful artisanal crafts. I left with a ring by Georgetge Silversmith, a bowl by Paul Jessop the potter and some beautiful wood carved cheese block doorstops by Josef. I have to also mention the lovely Claire, at the shop. If the shoe fits the face I remembered the right name! A lovely place for a picnic, or a walk with the dog. I went 4 times in a week and got to explore something different each visit."
P_Addler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barrington Court is located near the village of Barrington in Somerset. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there is ample parking available, including disabled parking closer to the gardens and houses. A short walk from the car park leads to the entrance. +1
Public transport to Barrington Court is not straightforward. The nearest train station is in Yeovil, and from there, you would likely need to arrange a taxi or local bus service, which can be infrequent.
Yes, Barrington Court is generally well signposted from the main roads in the surrounding area, especially when approaching from Yeovil or Taunton.
The postcode for Barrington Court is TA14 6NQ. This can be useful for satellite navigation systems.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Barrington Court's opening times can vary seasonally and due to ongoing renovations. The main house is currently closed for roof repairs. The gardens and artisan studios typically have different opening hours, often open on weekends when the house is closed. Always check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Entry fees apply for Barrington Court, with prices varying for adults, children, and families. National Trust members get free entry. It's advisable to check the National Trust website for current admission prices.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for peak times or special events, is often recommended to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Check the National Trust website for specific booking requirements.
Barrington Court offers disabled parking closer to the gardens and houses. While the grounds are generally accessible, some areas may present challenges due to the historic nature of the site. Staff are usually on hand to assist.
Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome in the gardens and grounds of Barrington Court. They are not permitted inside the main house or the cafe.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
While the main house is closed for repairs, you can explore the beautiful Tudor gardens, including the Lily Garden and White Garden. The site also features artisan studios with handmade crafts, a second-hand bookshop, and the 'ha-ha' landscape feature. +1
No, the main manor house at Barrington Court is currently closed for essential roof repairs. Visitors can still enjoy the extensive gardens and other facilities on site. +1
Yes, Barrington Court often has family-friendly activities, especially during school holidays, such as pumpkin trails and woodland activities. Check their website for current offerings.
The artisan studios host local craftspeople selling unique handmade goods, including pottery, silversmithing, and woodwork. It's a great place to find distinctive souvenirs.
Yes, photography is generally permitted at Barrington Court for personal use. However, drone photography may be restricted, and commercial photography often requires prior permission.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a National Trust cafe at Barrington Court that serves coffee, tea, sandwiches, and sometimes hot food. However, selection can be limited, especially during busy periods. +2
The cafe typically offers a selection of light meals, sandwiches, cakes, and hot drinks. The availability of hot food can vary, and sometimes options are limited to items like sausage rolls. +1
Absolutely! Barrington Court is a lovely spot for a picnic. There are beautiful areas in the gardens where you can relax and enjoy your own food.
The nearest village, Barrington, and the larger town of Ilminster offer local pubs and restaurants. For a wider selection, Yeovil is a short drive away.
The cafe usually offers some vegetarian options. It's best to inquire directly with the cafe staff about specific dietary requirements, such as vegan or gluten-free options.
📸 📸 Photography
The gardens offer numerous picturesque spots, especially the Lily Garden and White Garden. The Tudor architecture of the house (from the exterior) and the walled orchard also make for great shots.
Yes, Barrington Court is particularly atmospheric in autumn, with dramatic countryside views and the changing colours of the gardens.
Tripods are generally allowed for personal photography, but it's always wise to check with staff on arrival, especially during busy periods, to ensure they don't obstruct pathways.
Personal photography is usually fine. However, commercial photography, professional shoots, or drone usage typically require prior permission from the National Trust.
A versatile camera that can handle both landscape and detail shots is ideal. A wide-angle lens is great for the gardens, while a telephoto can capture architectural details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for the 'ha-ha' feature, which can be an interesting discovery for curious minds. The artisan studios also offer a chance for kids to see crafts being made. Consider bringing a picnic to make the most of the open spaces.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
+1Enjoy a leisurely walk through the grounds, perhaps stopping for a coffee or tea at the cafe. The atmospheric setting, especially in autumn, can be quite enchanting.
🎨 Art & Craft Enthusiasts
From intricate jewellery to beautiful pottery, the studios provide a diverse range of artistic creations. It's a perfect opportunity to find a special memento or gift that supports local artists.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gardens of Barrington Court
+2Beyond the formal gardens, explore the walled orchard, which offers a glimpse into traditional fruit cultivation. During autumn, the gardens take on a different charm, with rich colours and a more dramatic atmosphere, making it a favourite time for many visitors.
+1Visitors often praise the variety and beauty of the garden spaces, finding them perfect for leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation. The design reflects the Tudor heritage of the estate, offering a sense of historical continuity.
+1Artisan Studios and Local Crafts
These studios feature a range of crafts, including pottery, silversmithing, and woodwork. You might find exquisite jewellery, beautifully crafted ceramics, or intricate wooden pieces. It's a fantastic opportunity to find a special souvenir or gift that tells a story.
Many visitors highlight the quality and originality of the crafts available, often mentioning specific artists they encountered. It adds a layer of cultural richness to the visit, moving beyond just historical architecture and gardens.
History and 'Wolf Hall'
The estate gained renewed fame as a filming location for the BBC adaptation of Hilary Mantel's novel 'Wolf Hall'. Visitors can specifically seek out the famous staircase that featured prominently in the series, adding a touch of modern pop culture to the historical setting.
Even with the house closed, the story behind the estate and its former inhabitants remains an interesting aspect of the visit. The National Trust often provides information about the history and the Lyle family (of Tate & Lyle fame) who owned the property.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit