One of England’s most scenic counties is Somerset, whose lush green pastures, orchards and little villages provide a wonderful backdrop to a most colourful and varied collection of private gardens at a time when they will be looking at their absolute best.

We begin with a visit to Watcombe, an idyllic rural garden with a sublime mix of thoughtful planting. The same can be said of Batcombe House, an outstanding plantswoman’s garden in two parts, one a riot of colour, the other an oasis of contemporary calm. After some free time in the cathedral city of Wells we visit Stoberry a sympathetically planted garden with breathtaking views over the Vale of Avalon. Closer to our base in North Petherton we call Bradon Farm, a classic formal garden with good use of structure and later we visit the Grade I registered garden of Iford Manor with its romantic design and architecture.

Finally, after a scenic drive through the Quantock Hills, we visit the Walled Gardens of Cannington, which has both classic and contemporary features.