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Discover some of the best listed propert...

26 September 2024

Discover some of the best listed properties in Somerset

By Jim Sales Account Executive

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Nestled in the heart of the Southwest, Somerset boasts a rich history and charm making it a prime location for some of the UK’s most stunning listed properties.

Longleat House

Longleat House, a prime example of Elizabethan architecture, stands out due to its rich history and stunning design. Completed in 1580 it was one of the first stately homes to open to the public. The house features over 130 rooms, magnificent gardens, and the world’s first safari park outside Africa. Its architecture, with high ceilings and ornate fireplaces, reflects the design of the era. Notable past residents include the Marquesses of Bath, whose lineage adds to Longleat’s historical narrative.

Montacute House

Montacute House, constructed in the late 16th century, is renowned for its striking symmetry and extensive use of Ham stone. This Elizabethan mansion boasts a long gallery, the longest surviving of its kind in England, adorned with portraits from the National Portrait Gallery. Beautifully manicured gardens surround the house. Owned by the Phelips family for centuries, Montacute’s historical significance is enriched by its remarkable preservation and continued public access.

Stunning Country Homes in Somerset

Somerset is renowned for its stunning country homes. Each property showcases unique architectural features and rich histories, attracting both historians and property enthusiasts.

Barrington Court

Barrington Court, a Grade I listed Tudor manor house, exemplifies the elegance of early 16th-century design. Built in 1538, it was one of the first houses restored by the National Trust in the 1920s. The property is noted for its symmetrical façade and extensive use of local stone. The extensive gardens include formal lawns, orchards, and kitchen gardens, offering a mix of ornamental and productive spaces. Interior highlights feature oak panelling and intricate plasterwork ceilings, which reflect the craftsmanship of the period.

Lytes Cary Manor

Lytes Cary Manor, a picturesque medieval manor house, sits in the heart of the Somerset countryside. Dating back to the 14th century, the property has undergone significant changes, blending original medieval elements with 20th-century Arts and Crafts additions. Historic features include stone mullioned windows, a Great Hall with timber roof trusses, and finely carved furniture. The gardens, designed in a series of “rooms”, include herbaceous borders, a topiary garden and a scented walk – each contributing to its charm and history.

City Properties in Somerset

Urban centres in Somerset boast remarkable listed properties showcasing unique historical beauty and significance.

The Bishop's Palace

The Bishop’s Palace, located in the heart of Wells, is a stunning example of medieval architecture. Built in the 13th century, it features a grand fortified gatehouse and moat. The palace grounds include 14 acres of exquisite gardens, such as the well pools that give Wells its name. Visitors can also explore the ruined Great Hall and the chapel, which are prime examples of Gothic revival architecture.

Wells Cathedral Close

Wells Cathedral Close, adjacent to Wells Cathedral, offers a serene glimpse into the medieval period. This historic area includes Grade I listed buildings like the Vicars’ Close, considered the oldest planned street in Europe, and the beautiful Deanery. The walled precincts house charming gardens, cobblestone paths, and medieval architecture, providing a peaceful retreat within the bustling city centre.

Unique Architectural Marvels

Somerset’s listed properties showcase a spectrum of architectural styles. Two striking examples include Tyntesfield and Clevedon Court, each offering a unique glimpse into the area’s rich architectural history.

Tyntesfield

Tyntesfield, near Wraxall, exemplifies Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. Initially built in the 1830s, it was extensively remodelled in the 1860s by William Gibbs, a wealthy merchant. The house showcases ornate stone carvings, stained glass windows, and a chapel with intricate woodwork. The grounds feature formal gardens, a kitchen garden, and woodland, illustrating how architecture and nature can harmoniously blend. Visitors can explore the interior, which retains original furnishings and decor, offering a vivid depiction of 19th-century opulence.

Clevedon Court

Clevedon Court, a 14th-century manor house, stands as one of Somerset’s oldest listed properties. Located in Clevedon, it features medieval architecture with subsequent Georgian additions. Key elements include a great hall with a hammerbeam roof, Tudor chimney stacks, and a 16th-century tower. Its terraced gardens and medieval fish ponds extend the historical experience outdoors. The manor’s extensive art collection, including portraiture and furniture, provides rich insights into the home’s illustrious past.

Frequently asked questions

What are some must-visit historical sites in Somerset?

Somerset boasts a wealth of historical sites, including urban gems like the Bishop’s Palace in Wells and Wells Cathedral Close, and rural treasures such as Barrington Court and Lytes Cary Manor.

What unique architectural styles can be found in Somerset?

Somerset features various architectural styles, notably the Victorian Gothic Revival at Tyntesfield and the medieval and Georgian elements at Clevedon Court.

Are there any notable urban heritage sites in Somerset?

Yes, notable urban heritage sites include the Bishop’s Palace and Wells Cathedral Close, both located in Wells, offering rich historical and architectural experiences.

Can you visit rural manors in Somerset?

Absolutely, rural manors like Barrington Court and Lytes Cary Manor offer a glimpse into Somerset’s historical and architectural heritage.

What can you expect to see at Tyntesfield?

At Tyntesfield, visitors can admire the Victorian Gothic Revival architecture and explore the rich history encapsulated within this grand estate.

What is Clevedon Court known for?

Clevedon Court is known for its unique blend of 14th-century medieval architecture and Georgian elements, making it a fascinating site for history and architecture enthusiasts.

How do listed properties in Somerset serve as living museums?

These properties preserve and showcase the region’s historical and architectural heritage, offering guided tours and educational experiences that bring history to life for visitors.

Listed properties and insurance

Insurance plays a crucial role in the preservation of listed properties, providing financial protection against potential damages and unforeseen events.

We understand the complexities involved in insuring listed buildings, from the use of traditional materials in repairs to the adherence to strict conservation regulations. By working with our specialist team, owners of historic properties can ensure that their cherished buildings are adequately protected, allowing them to continue their legacy of preservation and heritage.