SUMMER HOLIDAYS ARE HERE!

July 22nd, 2010

Come and stay at Ammonite Lodge for holidays near the Devon/Dorset coast and the beautiful countryside of south Somerset. On your way down to Cornwall? Ammonite Lodge is an ideal stopover on your journey west and provides a welcome break for B&B accommodation. We look forward to welcoming you to our home!

Events in Somerset in June

June 10th, 2010

Great Cranes
The project to reintroduce European Cranes to the Somerset Levels is moving on and getting plenty of media coverage. Most recent sound bite was BBC Radio’s Saving Species programme (R4 on 8th June if you want to play it again). All the eggs brought so carefully from Eastern Europe have hatched. Visit the website for pictures of the one-month old chicks in their “crane school” at Slimbridge. You can also meet Amy King and Roland Digby, the surrogate crane parents who are rearing the birds through their first delicate weeks. These babies will soon be in Somerset so watch their progress on http://www.thegreatcraneproject.org.uk

Large Blues
Large Blue Butterflies were re-introduced to Somerset 25 years ago, having been declared extinct in 1979. They occupy a site owned by the National Trust at Collard Hill near Glastonbury, one of 25 South West sites where the butterfly has re-established. The Trust is hoping for a bumper year for Blues this summer and Collard Hill has lots of other species to spot too, many butterflies and moths and beautiful orchids.
Here’s some Blue things to do:-
20th June - a Collard Hill open day for visitors to meet wardens involved with the care of the Large Blue.
You can download a walk around Collard Hill showing best places for Blues at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walks
An NT dedicated hotline will give up-to-date recorded information on numbers during the flight season (further information on 07824 820193).
You can go on a Large Blue blog with daily updates and pictures at http://ntlargeblue.wordpress.com/

Glove Affair
An exhibition of glove-related art - garments, hangings, sculptures, animatronics and writings, all on the
theme of gloves and their symbolism in history, art, literature and romance.
A South West Textiles Group Touring Exhibition running from 17 July to 11 September at the Somerset Rural Life Museum. Further information on 01458 831197

Ilminster Midsummer Experience
Join in Ilminster’s four-day festival with exciting entertainment for all the family including Craft and Food Fair, Ilminster Party in the Square, Nine Choirs evening, Strolling Garage Sale, flower festival, sports and more….
10-13 June 2010
www.ilminsterexperience.co.uk

Ilminster’s First Tuesday
On the first Tuesday of every month, Ilminster Businesses are offering the chance to win a fabulous prize in the First Tuesday draw. All you have to do is shop in Ilminster, look for the First Tuesday blue and green balloons outside businesses, shops, restaurants and pubs and then ask for details on how to enter.
30 businesses are taking part and it’s growing!
Arts in the Garden
This is the summer exhibition of the Somerset Guild of Craftsmen running in The Walled Gardens of Cannington, one of the Classic Gardens of Somerset.
Exhibition runs 16th - 27th June 2010
For information go to www.canningtonwalledgardens.co.uk
All lit up at Glastonbury
St Michael’s Tower on Glastonbury Tor - owned by the National Trust - is to be illuminated each night of Glastonbury Festival (23 to 27 June) from sunset to sunrise. Coloured light using the latest LED technology will go on at 21.31 British Summer Time each evening, the exact time of sunset. The Tor is five miles from Worthy Farm and will be visible from higher ground on the site as well as the surrounding countryside. And Festival goers this year also have the chance to escape to the National Trust’s Outside Inn and enjoy a fresh air bar and chill-out zone using Silent Disco headphones to listen to the sounds of the outdoors. Find out more about the NT at Glastonbury on www.nationaltrust.org.uk/glastonbury or on Twitter.

Courses at River Cottage

May 11th, 2010

If you are booking a course at Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s River Cottage, we can offer you accommodation at Chard. Ammonite Lodge Guest House is only about 15 minutes drive from Axminster and provides ideal B&B accommodation for visits to River Cottage HQ and the River Cottage Canteen in Axminster. Call us now on 01460 63839 to book your bed and breakfast accommodation.

Chard accommodation is ideal for exploring the Jurassic Coast - Stay at Ammonite Lodge

May 5th, 2010

Fossil hunting and coastal walks are just a short drive from Chard - Lyme Regis and Charmouth are great places for fossil hunting. Whether you want to stay for one night or more, Ammonite Lodge is a good base for the coast.

Ammonite Lodge, Chard Guest House and Bed & Breakfast - South Somerset news

April 14th, 2010

Plant Hunters Fair
Lower Severalls is hosting the Plant Hunters Fair organised by the Somerset group of Plant Heritage (NCCPG) with around 25 Nurseries from all over the South West attending. An opportunity to chat to and buy from specialist growers and enjoy homemade refreshments.
Saturday 17th April
More information on Lower Severalls at www.lowerseveralls.co.uk
or telephone 01460 73234

New Farmers Market
In Middle Street, Yeovil starting with Saturday 24th April and then every 4th Saturday in the month. Any enquiries to 01373 812757

Apple Blossom Day on 2nd May
West Bradley Orchards near Glastonbury is opening to the public at the height of apple blossom season.
The orchards, also home of The Orchard Pig - makers of speciality apple juices and ciders - will welcome visitors for a day of exploration and enjoyment, with tours of the 50 acres that make up the West Bradley Orchards. Pig roast, cider and juice bar, tractor rides, Somerset Bee Keepers, plants and cake stall.
For information visit http://www.orchardpig.co.uk/ or telephone 01458 851222

Traditional Folk
Spend a spring evening listening to Somerset folk songs at Barrington Court on Sunday 2nd May at 6 p.m.
Full details on the Events listing at http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
or telephone Barrington on 01460 241938

Abbey Hill Rally
Taking place every May Day bank holiday weekend, 2010 is the 30th anniversary of the Rally with vehicles from traction engines to motorcycles. This year the Rally opens on the Friday so that local schools can have access to the site.
April 30th to 3rd May
Yeovil Showground
http://www.abbeyhillrally.co.uk/

Yeovil Country Park Fair
A popular Bank Holiday Monday event taking place on 31st May from 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. and this year supported by BBC Springwatch. Activities will include the opportunity to take part in making insect homes and seeing birds of prey.

Accommodation in Chard, Somerset

April 13th, 2010

Looking for somewhere to stay in Chard, Somerset? We offer comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation in our lovely 300 year old Grade 2 listed guest house. Close and convenient for the Devon and Dorset coast and for exploring the many beautiful country houses and gardens in Somerset.

…SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO IN SOMERSET

March 23rd, 2010

Our Guest House in Chard, Somerset is the ideal base to explore the attractions listed below.

No. 1:

2 for 1 National Trust offer. Over 6 participating properties. If you have never been to Tyntesfield, Wraxall, Bristol - Sat Nav reference: BS48 1NS. Telephone: 0844 800 4966 - Then you surely must visit this magical and beautiful House and Ground! Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield/ for more details.

No 2:

2 for 1 Bishop’s Palace offer. The Bishop’s Palce is surrounded by 14 acres of historic gardens and is situated in the stunningly beautiful City of Wells. Sat Nav reference: BA5 2PD. Tel. 01749 988111, www.bishopspalace.org.uk

No. 3:

Ston Easton Park. Enjoy four Sumptuous full afternoon teas and pay for just three. Ston Easton Park, Restaurant, Hotel & Gardens really is outstanding. When booking just quote ‘What’s On’ when booking. Tel: 01761 241631. Sat Nav reference BA3 4DF. www.stoneaston.co.uk

No. 4:

Hunstrete House. Enjoy a Splendid two course lunch with a glass of wine for £15 or Full afternoon tea for two for just £20.
When booking just quote ‘What’s On’ when booking. Tel 01761 490490. Sat Nav reference BS39 4NS. www.hunstretehouse.co.uk

No. 5

Malaysian Spa Festival at Thermae Bath Spa 22nd April-16th May. The Spa Festival brings together two great spa traditions and provides an opportunity in Bath to enjoy the touch, taste and sights of Malaysia along with bathing in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Thermae Bath Spa. Tel 0844 888 0844. Sat Nav reference BA1 1SJ. www.spafestival.co.uk

No 6

Glastonbury Abbey, have fun with these exciting events 1/4/10-30/6/10 Glastonbury Abbey spring exhibition explores gardens in monasteries and proposed designs for a new St Patrick’s Chapel. Garden. 2-18/4/10 Children’s Easter Trail. 2/5/10 Teddy Bear’s Picnic and Family Fun Day. Tel: 01458 832267. Sat Nav reference BA6 9EL. www.glastonbury abbey.com

No 7

The Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre 28-29 April 2010. Opera Della Luna present HMS Pinafore. Tel. 01823 283244. Sat Nav reference TA1 1JL. www.thebrewhouse.net

No 8

Wisteria Festival & Horticulture Open Day. Bridgwater College, Enjoy one of the best Wisteria displays in the country. 8-9 May. Tel. 01278 655042. Sat Nav reference. TA5 2HA.www.canningtonwalledgardens.co.uk

No 9

Puxton Park, all weather family fun spread over 50 acres. Outdoor Play Area, Farm Animals, Highland Cattle, Pets village, Pony Stables, Falconry Centre. Tel 01934 523500. Sat Nav reference BS24 6AH.www.puxton.co.uk

No 10

Oakham Treasures, Step back in time with a fun-packed adventure. Whether you are 8 or 80, you will be fascinated by this unique collection of memorabilia from days gone by. There really is something for everyone, from the thousands of items to the Historic Stores, to the impressive display of historic tractors and farm equipment. Tel 01275 375236. Sat Nav reference BS20 7SP. www.oakhamtreasures.co.uk

No. 11

Double Tree by Hilton. Friday 26th March, Elvis is in the Building, an absolute must see show and much requested return. Only £20 per person including 3 course dinner and disco. Tel. 01934 834343. Sat Nav reference BS49 5AD. www.cadburyhouse.com

No. 12

Fusion Leisure Club, Burhan-on-Sea. Fusion is a brand new 5 star quality Leisure and Fitness club. If you are looking to join the Best Quality Leisure and Fitness club around, or simply to see what is on offer Tel. 01278 788888. Sat Nav reference TA9 4HD www.fusionleisure.co.uk

No. 13

Fleet Air Arm Museum. Europe’s Largest Naval Aviation Museum, 100 years of WOW!. Tel 01935 840565. Sat Nav reference BA22 8HT. www.fleetairarm.com

No 14

Haynes International Motor Museum. The UK’s largest exhibition of great cars from around the world and the perfect all weather attraction. 3-18th April, Alien Invasion. 3 May Terry Grant Stunt Spectacular. 31 May, Roary the Racing Car and Big Chris. Tel 01963 440804. Sat Nav reference BS22 7LH. www.haynesmotormuseum.co.uk

No. 15

Willow Workshops and Course. Displays/Workshops/Courses/Talks/Demonstrations & sculpture trail. Tel. 01278 691105. Sat Nav reference TA7 0LP. www.musgrovewillow.co.uk

No 16

Air day 10th July. RNAS Yeovilton 70th Anniversary. Tel: 08445 781 781. Sat Nav reference BS22 8HT. www.royalnavy.mod.uk

No. 17

Explore West Somerset by Steam Train. Tel 01643 704996. Sat Nav reference TA24 5BG. www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk

No. 18

Forde Abbey & Gardens. 30 acres of award winning gardens, not to be missed. 4-5 April Easter Egg Hunt. Tel. 01460 221290. Sat Nav reference TA20 4LU. www.fordeabbey.co.uk

No. 19

Monkton Elm Garden and Pet Centre. Family restuarant and conservary, Childrens Play area, Free parking, New craft centre. Tel 01823 412381. Sat Nav reference TA2 8QN. www.monkton-elm.co.uk

No. 20

Hestercombe Gardens, this is truely a magical place to visit. A breathtaking setting any time of the year. Tel. 01823 413923. Sat Nav reference TA2 8LG. www.hestercombe.com

No. 21

Swan Hotel, Wells. Lovely Restaurant with the spectacular backdrop of Wells Cathedral. Tel. 01749 836300. Sat Nav reference BA5 2RX. www.swanhotel.co.uk

No. 22

Taunton School. Check out their latest events. Tel. 01823 349244. www.tauntonschoolevents.co.uk

No. 23

Visit Halswell, Goathurst Somerset. A truely outstanding period house. Tel. 0845 204 1066. Sat Nav reference TA5 2DH. www.halswell.co.uk

EASTER BREAK - SPECIAL OFFER!

March 21st, 2010

Come and stay for 3 nights or more during the week commencing 29 March 2010 and get 25% discount on the cost of your total stay. Offer includes room and breakfast and is subject to availability. Accommodation in South Somerset offers you great countryside on the doorstep and lots to do and see. The Jurassic coast is a short drive away. Offer ends 5 April 2010. Bookings by telephone only - 01460 63839.

BOOK EARLY FOR ACCOMMODATION IN CHARD THIS EASTER/SPRING!

March 18th, 2010

Places to stay in Chard are limited, so to guarantee your accommodation in Chard, Somerset, why not book online. Special discounts are available for 3 or more nights - please quote our blog reference East2010, when booking your accommodation by telephone. It is highly recommended that if you are attending a wedding in the Chard area, you book early to avoid disappointment as there are not many accommodation places to stay in Chard.

Snowy January in Chard

February 4th, 2010