The Lighter Side
A photographic journey through joy at Hestercombe
Explore Rook Wood this summer, as it magically transforms into a fungal paradise filled with terrific toadstools!
Hestercombe will be closed all day on Tuesday, December 16th, while the National Grid completes local high-voltage work across the estate. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.
This event has ended

Our toadstools have now been moved for display on the Marquee Lawn!
This summer holiday, we have brought together local groups, schools and artists (both amateur and professional) to paint wooden toadstools dotted around the picturesque Rook Wood. Whether young or old, every family member will enjoy discovering the unique and interesting designs on all 16 toadstools!
You could also be in which a chance of winning your own magical Hestercombe mushroom to take home! After your walk, head to the Gift Shop (located inside Hestercombe House) to take part in our Toadstool Raffle; all proceeds benefitting the Hestercombe charity.
Raffle tickets will be drawn on Friday 17th September.
Most of the toadstools on display are available to bid on at our online auction! Don't miss out on your chance to take your favourite home - Auction link available here
24th July - 13th August ~ Story Stones Trail
24th July - 5th September ~ The Mushroom Magic Trail
14th August - 5th September ~ The Charcoal Creations Trail
Trail price is free with standard gardens admission.
You can either pay for your gardens admission online, or purchase on the day of your visit at Visitor Reception.
Described as “one of the top twenty gardens to visit in the country”, Hestercombe is always beautiful throughout the year. Join today and enjoy great value: unlimited access to Hestercombe with prices from £4.21 per month.
Give a Gift of Membership to friends and family and they too can enjoy all the benefits of membership.
A photographic journey through joy at Hestercombe

Explore the fascinating history of the Portman family and their Hestercombe estate.

The first in a series of exhibitions, walks and writings at Hestercombe in 2025-26 by artist and writer Lizzie Philps.

The wonder of the festive season is here…. from the quiet beauty of the gardens this winter to our wonderful Christmas children’s trail and festive craft activities in the main house, we’ve something for the whole family this Christmas at Hestercombe. KIDS GO FREE. December 6th – 24th

Join us for a series of tutored workshops at the peaceful winter surroundings at Hestercombe Gardens, where we will learn how to capture beautiful botanical subjects through careful observation and sketching methods. Suitable for all levels.

Join us for a series of tutored workshops at the peaceful winter surroundings at Hestercombe Gardens, where we will learn how to capture beautiful botanical subjects through careful observation and sketching methods. Suitable for all levels.

Join us for a series of tutored workshops at the peaceful winter surroundings at Hestercombe Gardens, where we will learn how to capture beautiful botanical subjects through careful observation and sketching methods. Suitable for all levels.

Join us for a series of tutored workshops at the peaceful winter surroundings at Hestercombe Gardens, where we will learn how to capture beautiful botanical subjects through careful observation and sketching methods. Suitable for all levels.
