Historic parks and gardens

In the UK the creation of the man-made landscape, whether garden or parkland, has been a consuming national interest for many centuries and an activity that it could be said has been raised to an art form in which the UK specialises. We are all familiar with the extent that private houses with extensive gardens and parkland or indeed great urban public parks shape the landscape and townscape of the country.

In recognition of this cultural importance the most significant Historic Parks and Gardens are formally identified as heritage assets by Historic England (formerly English Heritage) in the national Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. South Somerset is richly endowed with rural parks and includes 14 entries on the national register. Several other parks are of special local importance.

Planning policy seeks to safeguard these from unsuitable development that would adversely affect their character, appearance or setting. There are a number of Historic Parks and Gardens.

For more information regarding Historic Parks and Gardens please visit Historic England.