Bune Villas

You'll find yourself wandering through someone else's botanical obsession at Bune Villas, just outside Bridgwater. This isn't a grand formal garden with tour groups and gift shops - it's more intimate than that, a collection of themed garden rooms created with genuine care and a bit of eccentric flair.

The layout pulls you through different planted areas, each with its own character. There's proper attention to plant combinations and seasonal interest, the kind of thing that gets gardeners properly excited. You'll spot rare specimens alongside reliable favourites, and the whole thing feels lived-in rather than sterile. It's not vast - two hours covers it comfortably, even if you're the type to read every plant label.

This works best if you actually like gardens. Seriously. If you're dragging reluctant teenagers round, they'll get bored fast. But for anyone who enjoys spotting unusual plants or seeing how someone's arranged their outdoor space, it's well worth the short drive from Bridgwater. Garden enthusiasts especially - this is the sort of place where you'll come away with notes on what to try at home.

If you're staying at Burnham Holiday Village up the coast, it's close enough for a half-day trip. Check ahead on opening though - smaller gardens sometimes keep odd hours. Free or paid admission isn't confirmed, so ring first. Go in spring or early summer when everything's putting on a show.