Established in 1765 by the first Countess of Ilchester. Developed since then into a 20-acre Grade I listed, magnificent woodland valley garden. World famous for its camellia groves, magnolias, rhododendron and hydrangea collections. In summer it is awash with colour. Since the restoration after the great storm of 1990 many new and exotic plants have been introduced. The garden is now a mixture of formal and informal, with charming walled garden and spectacular woodland valley views. Facilities include a Colonial Restaurant for lunches, snacks and drinks, a plant centre and quality gift shop. Events such as Shakespeare and concerts are presented during the year. The floodlighting of the garden at the end of October should not be missed. Voted "Our Favourite Garden" by readers of The Daily Telegraph. "One of the finest gardens I have ever visited" Alan Titchmarsh BBC Gardeners World magazine Sept 2008.