Dillington House

A proper Victorian manor house sits just outside Crewkerne, and Dillington House is exactly the sort of place that rewards a quiet afternoon if you're staying in the area. The building itself - all red brick and solid Somerset character - feels lived-in rather than museum-like, which is refreshing. You get the sense of wandering through someone's actual home rather than a roped-off time capsule.

The grounds are the real draw here. There's something about the gardens and parkland that makes you slow down, even if you're only planning to stop for an hour. Not a white-knuckle tourist experience, but that's rather the point. Families with younger kids might find it a bit quiet unless they're the type who enjoy a gentle explore, but if you've got teenagers or anyone with an interest in period architecture and rural Somerset life, it's worth the detour from Crewkerne.

If you're based at Dimpsey Shepherd's Hut Glamping or Thorney Lakes Caravan & Camping Park - both within a few miles - this makes a decent half-day addition to a park holiday without the crowds you'd get at some of the bigger attractions. Go mid-week if you can. Check ahead for opening times and admission charges, as information isn't always straightforward, but it's the sort of place that justifies a quick phone call. Allow two to three hours if you're taking your time with the gardens.