Hestercombe Gardens

24/05/2026

The Art of Words – Writing from Hestercombe’s Collection

Discover how visual art can inspire powerful storytelling in this relaxed and creative writing workshop.

Working with pieces from Hestercombe House’s collection, you’ll explore character, voice, and atmosphere through guided exercises that bring images to life on the page.

From portraits to landscapes, this session offers a fresh and imaginative way to approach creative writing.

Tuesday 6 October 2026
10.30am – 12.30pm
£30
Suitable for all abilities.

Tickets: https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on/the-art-of-words-writing-from-hestercombes-collection

20/05/2026

Building Confidence Through the Arts: Sketching at Hestercombe

Join us for a calming and creative sketching course set in the inspiring surroundings of Hestercombe Gardens.

In partnership with Somerset Skills & Learning, this course is designed to build confidence, nurture creativity, and support wellbeing through drawing and observation.

Explore the gardens in a new way as you learn to capture the beauty of nature through sketching.

Start Date: Tuesday 14 July 2026
10.30am

A welcoming course for all abilities — no previous experience needed.

https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on

Explore, learn and relax at a Hestercombe event; from arts and crafts and garden trails to live music and theatre, and food and drink.

18/05/2026

A Butterfly Adventure at Hestercombe!

This May half term, set off on a family adventure through Hestercombe Gardens with our Butterfly Trail & Creative Crafts.

Follow clues hidden in the gardens, discover signs of spring, and take part in simple craft activities designed for children to enjoy.

A perfect way to spend time outdoors, explore nature, and make memories together

23 – 31 May 2026

£1 per trail | Kids go free | Adults standard admission

No booking required — just come along and join in!

https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on

17/05/2026

Around the World in 80 Days

A fast-paced open-air adventure with Alfresco Actors.

Friday 17 July 2026
Doors 6.15pm | performance: 7.00pm

Follow Phileas Fogg on a thrilling race across the globe in this energetic summer performance.

£18 / £16

https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on/around-the-world-in-80-days

15/05/2026

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Shakespeare’s magical comedy under the stars with Folksy Theatre.

2 August 2026
7.00pm – 10.30pm
Tickets from £13

Love, laughter and mischief in the gardens.

https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on/folksy-theatre-presents-a-midsummer-nights-dream

13/05/2026

Carmen – Reduced Opera Company

A bold reimagining of Bizet’s classic opera.

5 July 2026
6.00pm
From £10

A modern, dynamic retelling with music, puppetry and flamenco influence.

https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on/the-reduced-opera-company-carmen

12/05/2026

Take Part at Hestercombe Gardens

Discover a programme of inspiring creative courses designed to help you learn, explore, and grow in the beautiful surroundings of Hestercombe Gardens.

From sketching and creative writing to immersive literary walks and storytelling workshops, our Take Part courses offer a chance to slow down, get creative, and try something new.

Whether you're picking up a pencil or finding your voice on the page, there’s something here for all levels of experience.

View all courses: https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on

Explore, learn and relax at a Hestercombe event; from arts and crafts and garden trails to live music and theatre, and food and drink.

11/05/2026

Butterfly Trail this May Half Term!
Explore Hestercombe Gardens this half term with a fun family trail and creative crafts.

23–31 May 2026

Follow the Butterfly Trail, solve clues, and enjoy hands-on activities in the gardens and house — perfect for children and families.

Butterfly Trail: £1 per person
Children: Free entry to the gardens
Adults: Standard garden admission applies

No booking needed — just arrive and explore!

https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on

11/05/2026

A Summer of Theatre & Opera at Hestercombe Gardens

Join us this summer for an exciting programme of open-air theatre and opera in the beautiful surroundings of Hestercombe Gardens.

From family adventures and Shakespeare to bold opera reimaginings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Includes:
Kaspar: Prince of Cats
Around the World in 80 Days
Carmen
A Midsummer Night’s Dream

https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on

10/05/2026

Hestercombe Haiku – An Autumn Poetry Walk

Think you can’t write poetry? Think again — you only need 17 syllables.

Join author Jo Middleton for a gentle, guided walk through Hestercombe Gardens, designed to help you slow down, notice detail, and turn your observations into simple, powerful haiku poetry.

Back indoors, you’ll shape your ideas into finished poems and discover how much can be said in just a few words.

Tuesday 14 September 2026
10.30am – 12.30pm
£30

No experience needed — just curiosity.

Tickets: https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on/hestercombe-haiku-an-autumn-poetry-walk

10/05/2026

May Half Term at Hestercombe Gardens!

Join us this May half term for a fun-filled family adventure in the gardens with our Butterfly Trail & Creative Crafts.

23 – 31 May 2026

Follow our Butterfly Trail through the gardens, solve playful clues, and discover the beauty of spring at Hestercombe. Along the way, children can enjoy simple, nature-inspired craft activities inside Hestercombe House — perfect for getting creative together as a family.

It’s a relaxed, outdoor activity designed for curious minds and younger visitors.
No booking required — just turn up and join in the fun!

Butterfly Trail: £1 per person
Children: Free entry to the gardens
Adults: Standard garden admission applies

More info: https://www.hestercombe.com/whats-on