The Newt in Somerset’s Great Garden Escape features a series of seasonally-themed weekend trips taking place over the summer months, including one that explores the property’s Roman ruins. This special version of the Great Garden Escape service, a partnership between the Newt and Great Western Railway, takes place on Friday 11 and Saturday 12 August and gives participants the opportunity to explore The Newt's new Roman Villa Experience.
The Great Garden Escape begins at London's Paddington station where you hop on board the first-class carriage of the Great Western Railway train to Castle Cary station. During the trip, you’ll enjoy a delicious picnic breakfast, and after a brief car journey, you’re served a light welcome refreshment before heading off on your tour of The Newt's beautiful gardens.
The garden tour is followed by a three-course vegetable-led lunch at the Garden Café, and later, a visit to the estate’s Farm Shop. Finally, you'll sample a variety of cyders at The Newt's Cyder Cellar. The day ends with a picturesque afternoon tea on the return journey to Paddington.
The Great Garden Escape also includes a 12-month Newt Membership so you can return to explore more of the grounds or stay at its Georgian Hotel, Hadspen House.
The Great Garden Escape’s summer schedule offers visitors the chance to explore more specific elements of The Newt, like the Roman ruins, which date back to 351 A.D. Guests learn about the original site's archaeological treasures and how these findings inspired the recreated villa. Be sure to save time for the visitor’s centre and interactive museum.
Other highlights of the 2023 schedule are the Bees and Honey tour which takes place on Friday 7 and Saturday 8 July, and the Harvest tour on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 September.
Visit The Newt in Somerset’s website to learn more about The Newt in Somerset and its programme of events including The Great Garden Escape.
