Hestercombe House

Hestercombe's 50 acres of Grade I listed gardens cover over three centuries of garden history. The gardens comprise 20th century formal gardens and a Georgian pleasure ground.

The formal gardens, completed in 1906, were designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and planted by Gertrude Jeykll.

Hestercombe is a classic example of the work of the famous partnership and have been carefully restored by the trust.

There are terraces and iris-fringed pools. A pergola is covered with clematis, honeysuckle and roses.

Lutyens' orangery and circular garden, with a round pond in the middle, are particularly stunning. His eye for detail ensures that every flight of steps and seat fits perfectly into the scheme. Among Miss Jekyll's unusual planting is a silver and grey border.

The house itself is the administrative centre for the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and not open to the public.