Ashcombe Open Days
White Rock Cottage, Simonsbath, Minehead, Somerset, TA24 7SH
Tucked within Exmoor's quiet village of Simonsbath lies White Rock Cottage, built in 1819 and reminiscent of a Scottish croft, it forms the centrepiece of Ashcombe Gardens. This late Georgian designed picturesque garden was created in 1820 by the Knight family, a pioneering family who changed the shape of Exmoor. The gardens lie at the heart of the former Royal Forest of Exmoor; during these open days we will share with you its history, present and future.
We will have a variety of things to see and get involved in on both days, learning about the social history of the area, the cottage's restoration and view local archaeological finds. We'll have short tours of the gardens and activities for people of all ages to try!
Additionally:
Friday
- short tours around the buildings with Exmoor's Senior Heritage Officer.
Saturday
- A guided walk in the afternoon (approx. 1.30-4pm) to Cornham Brake to learn about it's mining history
- more family fun activities!
These open days are being organised by Exmoor Pioneers, a 4-year National Lottery Heritage Funded project. This aims to connect people to the natural and cultural heritage of the former Royal Forest of Exmoor; support nature recovery, protect heritage at risk, and develop the skills to support this landscape in the future. People are at the heart of this project and we will have opportunities for volunteers to get involved in various aspects over the coming years; do come along and speak to the team to find out more.
Timings & Tours
- Friday 12 September:
- White Rock Cottage Open Day (10.30am - 4pm)
- Saturday 13 September:
- White Rock Cottage Open Day (10.30am - 4pm)
Location & directions
White Rock Cottage, Simonsbath, Minehead, Somerset, TA24 7SH
- Directions:
- Follow signs to Ashcombe car park.
- Contact on day:
- Izzy Burns
- Telephone number:
- +447483474202
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
The car park and surrounding areas of the buildings are all firm ground/gravel and generally wheelchair accessible. The paths around Ashcombe gardens are on uneven ground, either grass or firm earth, some paths go up steep slopes or have some steps. Staff will be on hand and happy to advise of areas that may be suitable on the day. The walk on Saturday to Cornham Brake is approx. 2 miles and is on a wide, but in some areas uneven & rocky track for most of the way. The path goes down to the bottom of a valley, so although there'll be no rush, a reasonable level of fitness is required.
