Heritage Open Days at Goathurst, near Bridgwater

on 9th/10th September 2023

Goathurst’s own unique Village Heritage Trail will once again feature in the National Heritage Open Days’ Festival which runs from Friday 8th- Sunday 17th September.

Following the success of the inaugural Village Heritage Trail in 2019, Halswell House and Park and St Edward’s Church, have again joined forces to welcome visitors to explore the fascinating history and heritage that links them so closely together on 9th/10th September, from 2pm-5.30pm. There will be a trail map available showing a suggested walking route (approximately 2 miles in total), although there is parking near the main sites.

Halswell House and parkland are undergoing extensive restoration, and the re-planted Mill Wood (with its cascade of lakes, Bathstone Bridge and the Temple of Harmony) will be open. Guided tours of the main house, including a view from the roof are available. Again this year, three of the follies of Halswell will be accessible: the Temple of Harmony and The Rotunda (Mrs Busby’s Temple), and the rarely seen Temple of Pan will be available for those who can manage a walk to the woods and across a field.

Guides will also be on hand at the church to provide an insight into the history of its significant tombs and monuments and their links to the families who have lived at Halswell House.

Refreshments will be available at the church and at the Temple of Pan where visitors will be able to enjoy the beauty and peace of the surrounding countryside as well as tea and homemade cakes!

Further details on the website:https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/visiting/advanced-search

Entry is free to all!