We have a full day ahead of us on Thursday 7 June 2012  when we have been invited over the Somerset border to visit the Tudor manor of Cothelstone for lunch, before calling into medieval Cothay Manor for tea in the afternoon.

Nestling at the foot of the Quantocks, Cothelstone Manor dates from the early 16th century and boasts a very fine Grade I listed gatehouse, one of only two surviving in the country. On arrival, we will have a private tour of the Estate to learn about the history of the Manor from its present owner, Nigel Meurs-Raby, and the role that previous owners the played during the Civil War. After visiting the formal gardens and the folly, we will go round the ancient Church (a subject of NADFAS Recording), and then sit down in the house or garden with a glass of wine followed by a scrumptious lunch prepared by Nigel's wife, Finny.

In the afternoon we will be transported to the nearby magical medieval house and gardens of Cothay Manor. These twelve acres are a plantsman's paradise, having achieved the highest accolade of two stars in the Good Garden Guide. The manor house at Cothay dates back to the 14th century and is said to be the finest example of a small medieval manor in England, and has been lovingly restored with period furniture and fabrics by the current owners. We will be given a private tour of the house, followed by a cup of tea in the gatehouse, and then the rest of the afternoon is yours to explore the garden.

View the Cothelstone website



View the Cothay Manor website