Montacute House is a remarkable building in the south west of England with a long history and a modern appeal. Read our Ultimate Guide to Montacute House to learn about how to get there, why you should visit and what else you can do in the surrounding area.
Where is Montacute House?
Montacute House is a magnificent Elizabethan mansion built in the village of Montacute, Somerset, England in the latter half of the 16th century. Now managed by the National Trust, a charitable organisation based in the United Kingdom, dedicated to the preservation of historic buildings, landscapes, and natural heritage, Montacute House is open to the public for visitors through most of the year.
Surrounded by the greenery of country parks and farms, this delightful house famous for its renaissance architecture is a popular spot for English and international tourists to visit in the south west of England.
How to Get There
Montacute House is very easy to reach from a number of popular places and can be easily found on Google maps.
However, to get there from London:
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Head southwest on the M3 towards Yeovil, then follow signs to Montacute village. This takes from 3 to 4 hours.
From Cornwall:
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Take the A30 to reach the M5, then head northeast towards Yeovil. Follow signs to Montacute village. This journey can take around 3 hours.
From Quantock Hills:
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Head towards Bridgwater, then join the M5 northbound towards Yeovil. Follow signs to Montacute village. This can take around one hour.
Montacute village is a small area, so you can’t miss signs for the famous Montacute House when you arrive there. But for more precise directions from your location, Google maps is at your disposal.
Why Visit Montacute House?
Montacute House is a historic gem that offers visitors a variety of compelling reasons to visit, including:
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Stunning architecture
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Beautiful gardens
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Historic significance
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Collection of art
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Varying events and exhibitions
Montacute House is a masterpiece of Elizabethan Renaissance architecture, featuring intricately carved façades, grand interiors, and exceptional gardens. Visitors can admire the exquisite craftsmanship and design details of this well-preserved historic structure, as well as stroll around the extensive gardens with manicured lawn, ornamental ponds and scenic views.
Containing a large collection of period furniture, artwork, tapestries and decorative pieces, expertly preserved and displayed by the National Trust, Montacute House has an incredible collection for fans of architecture and history to enjoy. With its 500-year long history, a visit to the house showcases the former lives of aristocratic families in a broader context of the Elizabethan era with the notable portraits of Tudor and Jacobean figures.
Montacute House also frequently hosts special events, exhibitions, and educational programs that cater to visitors of all ages. These may include guided tours, workshops, theatrical performances, and seasonal festivities, offering something new to discover with each visit. Make sure you check their website to learn about what’s on during your intended visit.
If you’re planning a trip to Somerset, Montacute House is a must-see destination for lovers of history, art, landscaping and the English countryside – just don’t forget your National Trust card for free entrance.
What Was Filmed in Montacute House?
Montacute House has been featured in several films and television productions due to its stunning architecture and historical ambiance. One of the most notable productions filmed at Montacute House is Wolf Hall.
A BBC mini-series, Wolf Hall was a historical drama from 2015 set in 1500s England during the rise of Thomas Cromwell in the court of King Henry VIII. Montacute House was regularly depicted as the home of Thomas More during the filming and caught the eye of many of the series’ viewers due to its splendid exterior.
Additionally, Montacute House has been used as a filming location for various other productions, including:
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Sense and Sensibility – The majority of this Jane Austen adaptation was filmed at other locations, but Montacute House was used for the exterior shots of Colonel Brandon’s estate, Delaford.
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Elizabeth: The Golden Age – Montacute House was used as one of the filming locations for this historical drama starring Cate Blanchett as Queen Elizabeth I.
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Top Gear – Montacute House was featured in an episode of the popular British motoring show, where the presenters embarked on a challenge involving classic British cars.
Montacute House has therefore been able to utilise its timeless appeal and cinematic quality through various productions, and will surely delight visitors of a variety of interests.
Other Attractions in the Area
Somerset is a beautiful region for a week-long stay in the British countryside, so while holidaying in Somerset, make the most of many different local tourist attractions, from the Quantock Hills and Glastonbury, to Dunster Castle and the beaches of Minehead.
Glastonbury
Most famous for its yearly summer music festival that gets hundreds of thousands of visitors annually for the globally renowned headliners, the town of Glastonbury has plenty to offer visitors all year round.
With many historic sites to explore, those with an interest in history will love Glastonbury, especially a trip to Glastonbury Abbey, one of the richest monasteries in England with connections to the legend of King Arthur and the Holy Grail.
Those who enjoy spending time in the countryside can enjoy a trip to the famous Glastonbury Tor, a prominent hill with a mediaeval tower offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. The Somerset Levels are a beautiful natural habitat with wetlands providing a unique spot for wildlife in the Glastonbury area, which visitors can enjoy via walking trails in the nature reserves.
The town of Glastonbury has a vibrant local culture and community, with a thriving arts scene, independent shops, and regular events and markets showcasing local talent and produce. With many quaint villages being lost as cities become bigger, it’s an important part of British heritage to visit and keep these small locations with mighty character alive. Visitors can immerse themselves in the welcoming and eclectic atmosphere of this unique town.
Overall, Glastonbury offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences that appeal to a wide range of interests, making it a must-visit destination for those staying in Somerset. Whether you’re interested in history, spirituality, music, nature, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a charming English town, Glastonbury has something to offer.
Dunster Castle
Dunster Castle is located in the village of Dunster, near Minehead, in Somerset, England. Sitting on a steep hill overlooking the picturesque village, Dunster Castle offers stunning views of Exmoor National Park and the Bristol Channel.
The castle itself is a historic property dating back to the mediaeval period, although much of the current structure dates from the 17th century. Visitors can explore the castle’s rooms, including the grand hall, library, and bedrooms, and learn about its rich history along the way. Dunster castle is surrounded by extensive gardens and grounds, which feature a variety of landscapes, including formal terraced gardens, woodland walks, and tranquil ponds, where visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through with their dogs and admire the diverse plantings and seasonal blooms.
Those with a keen interest in nature can also enjoy the flora and fauna of Dunster Castle’s grounds, including rare butterflies and amphibians as well as the occasional otter family hiding in the streams and rushes.
If you want to visit Dunster Castle with children, you’ve got a great trip ahead of you! Dunster Castle offers a range of family-friendly activities and events throughout the year, including guided tours, children’s trails, and special seasonal events such as Easter egg hunts and Halloween activities. It’s a great destination for families looking to explore history and nature together.
In addition to Dunster Castle, the village of Dunster itself is worth exploring. It features a charming mediaeval high street lined with traditional buildings, shops, cafes, and pubs.
Whether you’re interested in exploring a historic castle, wandering through beautiful gardens, or enjoying scenic views of the countryside, Dunster Castle has something to offer for visitors of all ages and interests.
Apple Tree Hotel – Your Home in Somerset
Located between the rolling Quantock Hills to the east, and the beautiful Exmoor Moors to the west, the Apple Tree Hotel is open for visitors all year round with plenty of rooms to choose from. Contact us today to make a reservation, or read more about the area in our news page.