Cricket St. Thomas, Chard, Somerset

Cricket St Thomas Lakes and Gardens

Past glories come blooming back to life

With peaceful lakes, secluded woodland walks and beautiful, vibrant gardens, Cricket St. Thomas is now an even better place to unwind.

Designs for the new lakes and gardens – which perfectly complement the stately grandeur of the old house – have been inspired by recently discovered documents from 1895 and 1919. So when you step into the Cricket St. Thomas gardens, you’ll be experiencing this fabulous estate as it was in times gone by.

Water Garden

The first visual treat you’ll see as you enter the Lakes & Gardens is the new Water Garden. A truly peaceful beginning to your day at Cricket St. Thomas.

All Year Colour

The gardens will be on show through the best months of the year. So whenever you visit you’ll be sure to see a blooming show.

Daffodils and Water Garden

Grotto Garden

The new Grotto Garden with it's very sculptural rocks and water features was designed by award winning designer Kate Gould. It’s sure to be a delight at any time as it's especially planted for year round colour and interest.

Designer Kate Gould won a Gold Medal at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2009 for ‘Best Urban Garden’.

Cricket House & Hamiltons Tea Rooms

This beautiful 19th century mansion – nestled in rolling Somerset countryside – was designed by famous architect Sir John Soane.

It eventually fell into the hands of Samuel Hood, the 2nd Baron Bridport, who married Horatio Nelson’s niece Charlotte. As a result, Cricket House can count the famous Admiral among its previous guests – putting you in some very historic company. Take in the glamorous surroundings whilst enjoying a delicious Afternoon Tea in Hamilton’s Tea Rooms or sit outside and enjoy the garden views.

*Please note these areas are for adults only.

Train

Journey around the top of the valley over the bright red Flamingo Bridge and enjoy the vistas on route on our own little train that can carry up to 50 passengers. The slow pace will allow you to take in the views from the other side of the Lakes and Gardens on regular trips and it’s complimentary†.

†subject to availability

Woodland walk

This unique feature allows you to get up close and personal to the several species of lemur that call this wood home. Regarded as one of the finest natural lemur environments outside their native Madagascar, Lemur Wood is a must-see part of the grounds.