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Historical places

National Trust - Barrington Court

4.5 · 2,403 reviews
Quiet, restorative, and architectural.
National Trust - Barrington Court, Ilminster TA19 0NQ, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The mansion was left intentionally unfurnished to allow visitors to focus on the original Tudor stonework, paneling, and plasterwork.

2

The property served as a filming location for the 2015 BBC adaptation of 'Wolf Hall'.

3

The Great Hall features a fireplace and original wood paneling that date back to the early 16th century.

4

The garden design was based on 1920s plans commissioned by the Lyle family, following Gertrude Jekyll’s characteristic style of 'drifts' of color.

5

A portion of the estate functions as a working cider orchard, continuing a long local tradition of Somerset fruit production.

Overview

Barrington Court is a rare example of a largely unfurnished Tudor manor house, notable for its emphasis on architectural integrity and restoration rather than extensive period collections. The site features an extensive Arts and Crafts garden designed by Gertrude Jekyll, structured into distinct, themed rooms. It includes a functioning orchard that supplies the estate's produce. The house was saved from dereliction in the early 20th century by Colonel A.A. Lyle, who undertook a massive restoration project. It remains a key destination for exploring the architectural transition from the medieval period to the Renaissance in England. The grounds incorporate working kitchen gardens and woodland areas accessible to the public.

Photo spot

The lily pond in the walled garden with the symmetrical Tudor chimneys in the background.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the transition between the stone floors inside the house and the uneven garden paths.

Check the National Trust website before arrival as the house interior sometimes closes for private events or conservation work.

Allocate extra time to walk to the kitchen garden, which is situated slightly further from the main house.

What to avoid

Assuming the house is furnished with period antiques, as the interior is intentionally sparse.

Good to know

The house interior may close during the winter months or on specific weekdays; grounds often remain accessible more frequently than the interior.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring for the orchard blossoms or early autumn for the apple harvest.
Address
National Trust - Barrington Court, Ilminster TA19 0NQ, United Kingdom
50.961, -2.858
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleTudor and Arts and Crafts restoration
Key FeaturesGertrude Jekyll-designed gardens and working orchards

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring for the orchard blossoms or early autumn for the apple harvest..

The lily pond in the walled garden with the symmetrical Tudor chimneys in the background.

Close by you'll find East Lambrook Manor Garden, National Trust - Montacute House, Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Museum.