A TOTAL of 14 gardens of varying sizes, styles, but bursting with individual character, will be open to the public to enjoy in and around Stogumber.

Tucked away in the valley between the Quantock Hills and Brendon Hill, the small village has organised Open Garden weekends for nominated charities and its Grade-I listed St Mary’s church for more than 40 years.

Last year more than £10,000 was raised for good causes and, for 2024, the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and Children’s Hospice South West, along with the church, are the chosen recipients.  

The Stogumber Open Gardens event is also well-known for the delicious food served all day in the village hall, which includes morning coffees, cooked lunches, as well as afternoon teas.

The Stogumber Open Gardens committee said in a short press statement: “In addition, there will be a bric a brac stall in the skittles alley, an arts and crafts exhibition in the church, and plant stalls.

“The local pub, just opposite the church, provides a friendly atmosphere and an excellent pint. About a mile down the road is the idyllic Stogumber Station, on the West Somerset Railway line, with another peaceful garden in which to relax.

“People from all over come to see the gardens and enjoy a meal, even a coach load of garden enthusiasts from the Netherlands

“Join us on one or both days; we look forward to welcoming you.”

The event will be held on Saturday and Sunday, June 15-16, from 10.30am until 5.30pm each day.

A ticket for both days costs £10 and children under 16 enter free. Dogs are also allowed in many of the gardens and there is a large, free car park near the village hall - postcode TA4 3TG.