In the southeast of Somerset, set in the picturesque village of Montacute, there lies a beautiful mansion that proves magical places still exist: Montacute House. The charm begins as soon as you enter the village, with its honey coloured Jurassic limestone homes and traditional thatched buildings. The beauty of this town is breathtaking enough, and yet, down an incredibly beautiful tree-lined avenue awaits the house itself. Built of the same Jurassic limestone, this Elizabethan mansion stands grand and proud. But oddly enough, even with its grandeur, impressive architecture and ornate gardens, Montacute generates an atmosphere of warm hospitality, which allowed for a fun family picnic on the lawn. I have a feeling the original owners were welcoming and warm to all who would visit, friends and stranger alike. Carved into the large capstone above the front door are the words: “Through this wide opening gate none come too early none return too late.” How lovely is that? And yes, this invitation even extends to your four-legged friend… outside on the grounds, that is.

The house was built in the seventeenth century and, remarkably, it has remained pretty much unchanged since then. And what can be found inside the house? It has an amazing display by the National Portrait Gallery (the longest gallery in England). There are house tours offered should you want to find all you can about this amazing home. And if you are bringing children, there are fun activities for them to enjoy.

It is definitely easy to imagine yourself in another century as you walk the grounds. Whether you prefer to wander amongst oak trees and grazing sheep or the more dignified flower garden outside the house, there is a feeling of another age, an age of rest and a slower pace of life. If you are looking for a refreshing and relaxing day away, then that is exactly what you will receive at Montacute House.

But don’t take my word for it… come along to this amazing place and see for yourself. I am pretty sure you will not be disappointed. In fact, I rather think it will go beyond your expectations. :)

(I apologise for the large gap between my last post. I plan to write more regularly in the future. Also, since my last entry, I have started an Instagram account, found here. And if you would like a sneak peek, scroll down the page to see some of the photos. I also have another IG account showing family life in England.)