Escapism

A Temperley Guide to Somerset

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Our comprehensive guide to Alice’s home shire, ‘The Land of the Summer People’. From the best local restaurants, pubs and other eateries to luxurious weekend stays and charming destinations for days well spent – as curated by the Temperley London team.

A magical sense of childhood nostalgia has always drawn Alice back to Somerset. Sweeping landscapes, eclectic personalities, respect for nature, local culture and the art of slow living; it’s all woven through the Temperley DNA.

Alice acquired a property in Ilminster to create a creative universe and built the first studios and stores for Temperley London. It’s been 12 years since Alice happened upon Cricket Court – her beautiful Grade II-listed home in the same town as her parents’ farm – and decided to split her time between town and country to maximise creativity and enhance her work-life balance.

The world has changed dramatically since then, but Temperley’s roots in Somerset have only grown deeper. In 2021, the brand’s new headquarters – in Phoenix Studios, in the market town of Ilminster – opened its doors.

As well as the brand’s atelier and training studio, the new HQ features a shop offering pieces from current and archive collections, our exclusive brand Outlet and Bridal Flagship.

Phoenix Studios has become a must-see stop on any visit to Somerset, but there’s plenty more to discover in the south west. Here are a few highlights as picked by our team.

Best for: Local, seasonal dining

HOLM, South Petherton

The food at Holm is driven by the seasons, the environment and the locality in the beautiful Somerset countryside. Working with local farmers, growers, butchers and anyone who shares the love of exceptional ingredients, treated with care and respect. Book in advance, especially if you’re a big group.

Best for: A coffee and cake

Pip’s Railway Carriage, Lopenhead

From a refurbished 1950s train carriage and double-decker bus, Pip’s serves coffee, teas and cakes, all prepared at their on-site bakeshop.

Best for: A classic pub

The Lord Poulett Arms, Hinton St George

Everything you’d want from a country pub, from home-cooked pies to hearty pints. There are rooms to stay in, most with slipper or roll-top baths, and some are dog-friendly.

Picture by Jake Eastham

Best for: An adventurous couples retreat

Mallinson’s Woodland Retreat, Chard

Escape, unwind and recharge in a stunning West Country woodland. 3 stunning treehouses, plus hot tubs, copper baths, pizza ovens and fire pits. No children or dogs allowed.

Best for: A group stay in nature

The Shepherds Hut retreat, near Crewkerne

Luxe shepherd’s huts for pairs and a cottage for bigger groups, with fire pits, lake views and private wooden hot tubs that encourage time in the great outdoors.

Best for: A wholesome family stay

Crooked Swan, Crewkerne

From weird to wonderful and everything in between, there’s always something new to admire within the Crooked Swan’s decor. An extraordinary pub with beautiful bedrooms of carved wooden beds, including a pair of creative bunkbeds built into a nook in the family room, Indian doors, oil painting wallpaper and a gramophone shower head are just a few highlights.

Best for: A sunny day expedition

Barrington Court, Barrington

Now owned by the National Trust, Barrington Court has beautiful farmland with public paths from where you can appreciate the natural surroundings and the elegant old Tudor mansion. Stop in at the award-winning Barrington Boar for a plate of refined comfort food and a glass of English sparkling wine.

Best for: Finding treasures

Dennis Chinaworks, Shepton Beauchamp

Ceramicists Sally Tuffin and Richard Dennis sell their creations, made using fine craftsmanship that fuses traditional techniques with contemporary designs, from the converted stables of a Gothic Victorian rectory.

Best for: Art appreciation

Hauser & Wirth, Bruton

Inside, you’ll find world-class exhibitions at the rural outpost of this leading contemporary arts gallery. Outside, there’s a breathtaking landscaped garden by leading landscape architect Piet Oudolf to marvel over. Refuel at Roth Bar & Grill, the excellent on-site restaurant.

Best for: A place to get inspired

The Newt, Bruton

If you’re in need of a little respite, The Newt ­­– with its glorious Georgian hotel and extensive gardens – is the place to have a breather. Beautiful and productive, there’s an original Roman villa, diverse woodland with deer, and flourishing vegetable gardens and apple orchards. An astonishing destination for children and adults alike, with shops, cafes and seasonal restaurant.

Best for: Blowing off some steam

Babington House, Frome

With a range of rooms across the Georgian manor, in the Main House, Coach House and Stable Block, as well as the indoor and outdoor pools, spa, restaurants and bars, library and walled garden – Babington House is just the place for some well-earned R&R. The ultimate countryside escape for rest, relaxation and seasonal dining.

Best for: A memorable day out

Burrow Hill Cider Farm, Martock

Owned by Alice’s parents, the Burrow Hill Cider Farm is a truly magical place. Book a tour and tasting in advance or just soak up the beauty of Somerset from Burrow Hill, while walking around the orchard trail and cider house. You can buy the cider and brandy, that are made on the farm using traditional techniques.