Groups

Welcome to Hestercombe

We are famous for our unique collection of gardens which span three centuries of history and design. Our Edwardian Formal Garden is hailed as one of the finest examples of the world-renowned partnership between garden designer Gertrude Jekyll and architect Sir Edwin Lutyens.

The estate has undergone acclaimed restoration works and continues to develop and grow, giving our visitors a stunning setting to explore, learn and relax.

Groups & Tours

We welcome groups and tours of any size to Hestercombe, and can tailor your experience in a number of different ways to suit your requirements.

Voted in the Top 50 Coach-Friendly UK Attractions, Hestercombe has fantastic facilities for your group. These include 50 acres of beautiful gardens from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries to walk through and enjoy; a contemporary art gallery with a series of changing exhibitions; a second-hand book shop, gift shop and plant centre.

Food

You can choose from two fantastic eateries when you visit Hestercombe. Recently refurbished, The Stables serves a wide selection of homemade brunch, hot and cold lunches, and afternoon and cream teas (with dietary requirements catered for). Enjoy your food inside within the original stables, or outside in our chic glass-covered courtyard.

Head to Caffe + Gelato for light bites, cakes, hot and cold drinks and locally-made gelato, Baboo.

You can find the brunch, lunch, dessert and afternoon tea menus on our Food webpage.

Your visit

You are more than welcome to spend your time here at your leisure, exploring the gardens at your own pace. However if you’d prefer more structure to your visit, we can work with you to provide a bespoke experience for your group.

We can offer:

A complimentary meet and greet for all groups
A private room for your morning tea & coffee or buffet lunch
A tour of the gardens with an experienced tour guide or gardener to learn about the history and restoration of Hestercombe.

Group Rates

Special rates are exclusive to group visits to Hestercombe, for parties of 15 or more.

These discounted rates apply provided that the group is pre-booked and pays with one single payment.

Please contact our Groups Coordinator, Olivia Corrick, for further information and bookings.

Group information & facilities

Groups and tour visits to Hestercombe can enjoy a number of benefits:

Tour guides available (minimum of 15 people; please contact us for prices and availability)
A beautiful and convenient location with ample free coach and car parking
An easy, convenient lunch or tea stop with great facilities, including a bright and airy courtyard and a separate picnic area
Full disabled access to the courtyard and partial disabled access through the gardens. A ‘Tramper’ mobility scooter is available to hire (NB this must be booked in advance)
Gift Shop and Plant Centre
Second-hand book shop
A lunch voucher for the coach driver and guide.