Shepton Mallet and Kilver Court Gardens

Approximate Journey Time: 1hr 45mins

Time at destination: 2.5 hours

Time at destination: 2.5 hours

There is a comfort stop on route.

Departure 16.30

Coach Drop off: Commercial Road

Coach Drop off: Entrance Kilver Court Gardens

Join us on a delightful day tour to the historic town of Shepton Mallet, where you’ll have around 2.5 hours to explore its charming streets, independent shops, and the rich heritage that dates back to Roman times. Take a stroll through the bustling marketplace, admire the ancient architecture, or stop by one of the cozy cafes to enjoy a coffee or lunch.

Afterwards, we’ll head over to the beautiful Kilver Court Gardens, a serene and scenic haven with landscaped gardens set against a stunning viaduct. Spend another 2.5 hours wandering through the vibrant plant displays, rockery, and peaceful lakeside views. Our coach will depart at 16:30, ensuring you have a full, relaxing day of exploration and nature. Next door to kilver Court is Mulberry Outlet Store and Toast Outlet Store.

Shepton Mallet, a historic town in Somerset, has roots that stretch back to the Roman era, once serving as an important settlement along the Fosse Way. During medieval times, it grew as a market town and became known for its wool and cloth industries, while later, in the 18th century, it gained prominence for cider production and stone quarrying. Shepton Mallet’s history is visible in its streets today, with notable landmarks like the 15th-century Market Cross and the Old Shepton Mallet Prison, which housed prisoners for over 400 years before becoming the oldest operating prison in the UK until its closure in 2013. This rich past has made Shepton Mallet a vibrant town with unique architecture and an undeniable sense of heritage.

A short distance from Shepton Mallet, Kilver Court Gardens offers a beautiful contrast of tranquil, designed landscapes with a backdrop steeped in industrial history. The gardens were originally established in the early 1900s by industrialist Ernest Jardine to provide a peaceful space for his workers. Later, in the 1960s, the site became home to the famous Showerings Brewery, which produced the popular Babycham drink. Roger Saul, founder of Mulberry, further enhanced the gardens when he acquired the property in the 1990s. Today, Kilver Court Gardens features rock gardens, a serene lake, and flower displays set against the stunning 19th-century viaduct, blending natural beauty with its storied past and offering visitors a picturesque retreat.