Stourhead features one of the finest landscape gardens in Britain. It was designed by Henry Hoare II between 1741 and 1780. The River Stour was dammed to form a lake. Surrounding the lake are a number of temples and follies such as the Pantheon, Temple of Apollo, Temple of Flora and the Palladian Bridge. Many rare and exotic trees are found around the lake including a Monkey Tree. There are fabulous blooms during the spring. Bluebells carpet the woodland floor whilst magnolia and rhododendron trees are covered in flowers. The Palladian mansion houses a unique collection of Chippendale furniture, magnificent paintings and an exquisite Regency library. This is well worth a visit which can be combined with King Alfred’s Tower for a great day out. All images © Black Dog of Wells.

Web Site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-stourhead