Somerset Holiday Cottages

Tucked away in the rolling countryside of Somerset, Dillington Estate is a gateway to a region rich in history, culture, wildlife and culinary delights. When you stay in one of the estate’s elegant cottages, the surrounding area offers a delightful mix if rural tranquillity and vibrant local experiences. 

The Somerset countryside around Dillington Estate is a walker’s paradise, offering scenic trails that meander through ancient woodlands, rolling hills and historic villages. One of the most popular routes is the Dillington House Walk, a gentle 2.9 km circular trail starting from Whitelackington, perfect for a leisurely stroll through parkland and bluebell woods in spring. For those seeking more expansive views and a touch of history, nearby Castle Neroche, an Iron Age hillfort nestled in the Blackdown Hills, provides a rewarding hike with panoramic vistas. You can also enjoy waterside walks around Chard Reservoir, or explore the tranquil paths at Otterhead Lakes, both offering peaceful escapes into nature. Whether you're after a short ramble or a full-day trek, Somerset’s footpaths around Dillington are ideal for reconnecting with the countryside.

After a day of exploring, nothing beats a hearty meal at a local pub or a refined dish crafted from Somerset’s seasonal produce. Just a short walk or drive away, the Barrington Boar serves up locally sourced food and drink in a charming village setting. The Lord Poulett Arms in Hinton St George is an award-winning gastropub perfect for a Sunday roast or a romantic dinner. Holm in South Petherton offers refined seasonal dishes from the team behind several acclaimed London restaurants. For something rustic and full of character, Dinnington Docks is a local gem with traditional fare and a welcoming atmosphere. And if you are after something quirky, the Railway Carriage Café lets you enjoy coffee and cake inside a vintage railway carriage next to a farm shop.

Somerset’s rich history is on full display near Dillington. Dillington House itself is a stunning sixteenth-century manor now used for conferences and weddings, and even if you are not attending an event, the architecture and beautiful grounds are worth admiring.

A short drive brings you to Forde Abbey House and Gardens, a breathtaking stately home with immaculate gardens and centuries of history. Originally founded as a Cistercian monastery in the 12th century, it has evolved over 900 years into a stately home surrounded by 30 acres of award-winning gardens. Visitors can explore beautifully preserved rooms featuring Mortlake tapestries, stroll along woodland paths, indulge in a treat at the charming tearoom, and marvel at the Centenary Fountain—the tallest powered fountain in England. 

Nearby Montacute offers both Elizabethan grandeur at Montacute House and quirky collections at the TV Radio Toy Museum. Built in the late 16th century from the warm, honey-coloured Ham Hill stone, it stands as a stunning example of Renaissance architecture in England. The house is famed for its Long Gallery, the longest of its kind in the country, which now hosts an impressive collection of portraits from the National Portrait Gallery.

For families or nature lovers, the area offers plenty of outdoor and child-friendly activities. The Blackdown Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, are ideal for walking, cycling and horse riding. Ferne Animal Sanctuary lets you meet rescued animals in a peaceful countryside setting. For something truly memorable, Somerset Sheep Trekking offers the chance to go trekking with sheep - a quirky experience for all ages.

Nearby towns such as Ilminster, Crewkerne and South Petherton offer charming streets lined with independent shops, cafés and regular farmers’ markets. Whether you are hunting for antiques, local crafts or fresh produce, these towns are perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

If you are seeking a peaceful countryside escape or a base for exploring Somerset’s hidden treasures, Dillington Estate is perfectly placed to offer both. From cosy pubs and stately homes to sheep trekking and railway cafés, this corner of England is full waiting to be discovered!