Nestled in the scenic countryside of Somerset, Lytes Cary Manor is a beautiful medieval manor house with a rich history, formal gardens, and even a National Trust holiday cottage on site. Whether visiting for a peaceful day out or planning a longer countryside escape, this guide covers everything you need to know about Lytes Cary Manor near Somerton.
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Lytes Cary Manor History
Lytes Cary Manor is not just a beautiful structure but a place steeped in centuries of history, dating back to the 13th century. Originally built by the Lyte family, the manor gained prominence in the 16th century under Henry Lyte, a notable herbalist and translator of Niewe Herball, a botanical reference work that helped bring scientific understanding of plants to England.
Much of the manor’s character today is shaped by the 20th Century restoration efforts of Sir Walter Jenner. A member of the influential Jenner family (best known for Edward Jenner, the pioneer of the smallpox vaccine), Sir Walter purchased the then-derelict estate. He painstakingly restored its west wing, hall, and manor garden to their former glory. His commitment preserved the essence of a Tudor manor while introducing touches of Arts and Crafts styling.
Today, Lytes Cary Manor stands as one of the most charming manor houses in Somerset, offering a serene and peaceful escape into England’s architectural and cultural past.
Lytes Cary Manor Accommodation
Looking to extend your visit? Book a stay at the Lytes Cary Manor Holiday Let, a charming National Trust property located within the grounds of the estate. This historic holiday cottage offers a unique chance to wake up surrounded by the rolling countryside and serene gardens of Lytes Cary.
Set in the former west wing of the manor, the cottage includes period features like wooden beams and stone floors alongside modern comforts. Ideal for couples or small families, this self-catering cottage lets you experience the peace of the Somerset countryside while being within driving distance of local attractions, walks, and market towns.
The cottage includes a ground floor living area, a well-equipped kitchen, and comfortable bedrooms upstairs. Enjoy tranquil evenings strolling through the gardens after day visitors have left – a truly magical perk for overnight guests. It has seven bedrooms and can sleep up to 14 people. (Not dog-friendly)
There’s also 3 Lytes Cary holiday cottage, which is dog-friendly. This semi-detached Victorian stone cottage has its own private garden and a cosy log burner. It sleeps up to 3 in a single bedroom and the double bedroom with views to the estate and countryside beyond.
Lytes Cary Manor Craft Fair
One of the highlights on the annual calendar is the Lytes Cary Manor Craft Fair, typically held in December. This festive event brings together a wide range of crafts inspired by the seasons and Somerset’s rural heritage. From handmade ceramics and jewellery to locally made preserves and textiles, it’s the perfect place to do Christmas shopping or enjoy a cosy day out.
The fair also features seasonal food and drink, live demonstrations, and family-friendly activities. The manor and gardens are beautifully decorated, giving the whole estate a magical, wintry feel.
Seasonal food and drink, live demonstrations, and family-friendly activities often accompany the craft fair. The manor and gardens are beautifully decorated, giving the whole estate a magical, wintry feel.
How to Get to Lytes Cary Manor
Lytes Cary Manor is located just off the A303, making it easily accessible by car. The full address is:
📍 National Trust Lytes Cary Manor near Somerton, Somerset, TA11 7HU
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By car: It’s conveniently located approximately 40 minutes from Taunton or Bath and around 2.5 hours from London. It’s just over 2 hours from Cardiff, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip or a longer stay.
By public transport: The nearest train station is Castle Cary (about 6 miles away). A taxi or local bus will get you to the estate from there.
Is Lytes Cary Manor Dog Friendly?
Dogs are welcome in the parkland surrounding the estate and most gardens, but not inside the Apostle garden, manor house, chapel or tea room. There is a doggie tie-up area in the tea-room courtyard under the parasols, where you can leave your dog if you want to visit the toilets. Assistance dogs are allowed throughout.
If you’re planning a full visit, bring a short lead (as we were asked to swap our extendable when we arrived) and check seasonal path restrictions.
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Who Owns Lytes Cary Manor?
Lytes Cary Manor is owned and managed by the National Trust. Sir Walter Jenner gifted it to the Trust in the 1940s to ensure its protection and public enjoyment for generations to come.
Lytes Cary Manor Prices
Entry is free for National Trust Members. For non-members, the standard admission charges apply from £11 for adults and £5.50 for children. Family tickets are also available.
Are you unsure if membership is right for you? I’ve done the research on National Trust vs. English Heritage for you.
With your National Trust Membership, you can visit over 500 houses, gardens, parks and castles in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. You can also use your card in 14 other countries with the International National Trusts Organisation, including Italy, Canada, Netherlands, New Zealand, Jersey, Guernsey and Australia. Membership includes:
- Unlimited free entry to all of the properties.
- Essential companion card where you can bring up to two carers if you have a disability. These can be different people; the card is in your name.
- Free parking is available in the majority of car parks. Some National Trust car parks are in other natural areas like beaches and countryside walks. You can save money just by using their car parks.
- You’ll be sent a handbook full of information about the properties annually. However, the website is easy to navigate, and you can find places to visit by area or postcode.
- Regular members’ magazine, sent three times a year.
- Regular e-newsletters.
- Join by direct debit and get a £10 gift card to spend in the National Trust shops or café.
2025 Membership Prices
- Adult Membership (age 26 plus) = £96 a year (£8 per month)
- Joint Membership (2 adults) = £160.80 a year (£13.40 per month)
- Young Person Membership (age 18-25) = £48 a year (£4 per month)
- Junior Membership (age 6-17, under 5’s are free) = £12 a year
- Family Membership (f2 adults) = £168.60 a year (£14.05 per month)
- Family Membership (1 adult) = £103.80 a year (£8.65 per month)
- Senior Membership (1 adult) = £72 a year (£6 per month)
- Joint Senior Membership (2 adults) = £102.60 a year (£10.05 per month)
Use Top Cash Back when Purchasing Your Membership
I’ve been a member of TopCashBack UK for several years and, to date, have earned over £1000 from it. Trust me, it’s a no-brainer, and you can make extra money by shopping online. Currently, you can get 3% back on your National Trust membership.
Is Lytes Cary Manor Free for National Trust Members?
Yes! If you’re a National Trust Members, admission to Lytes Cary Manor, its gardens, and parkland is included in your membership. You can simply scan your card upon arrival and enjoy the day.
Does Lytes Cary Have a Café?
There isn’t a full café on-site, but a small kiosk or tea area is often open during peak months and special events, offering hot drinks and snacks. Many visitors bring a picnic to enjoy in the estate parkland or grab refreshments in nearby Somerton.
Take a Picnic
Devon Hampers, send the best of the South West to your front door. The cream tea and afternoon tea hampers include scones, clotted cream and jam. There are also cheese hampers, chocolate, cider and BBQ hampers.
Devon Hampers Promo Code
Get 5% off hampers or create your own. Order anything from a clotted cream tea for two or a large hamper full of goodies. There is no minimum order amount. Use DEVON5 at the checkout.
What is the Red Route at Lytes Cary?
The Red Route is a waymarked walking trail around the estate, offering scenic views of the River Cary, fields, and woodlands. It’s a gentle route, suitable for most walkers, and showcases the wider landscape beyond the formal gardens. Maps are available on-site.
Footwear That Keeps Up with Your Travel Plans
Legend Footwear is a go-to destination for quality footwear, offering a huge range of brands, from hiking boots to stylish everyday shoes. Whether you’re heading out on a countryside walk with your dog or exploring a new city on your travels, they have durable and comfortable options to suit all terrains.
Where is Lytes Cary Manor?
Lytes Cary Manor is located near Somerton in Somerset, in the South West of England. It’s close to Ilchester and the A303, making it an easy stop for those travelling across the county or exploring South Somerset.
Things to Do in Ilminster
Ilminster might not be the first town that pops to mind when you think of a day out or a staycation, but it’s full of surprises! Whether after a peaceful family day, a quirky experience, or a local pub to unwind in, this charming town has something for everyone. Check out the best things to do in Ilminster.
The Bell at Broadway
We absolutely loved our stay at The Bell at Broadway – a true dog-friendly gem tucked away in the peaceful village of Broadway (near Ilminster). From the moment we arrived, the warm welcome, characterful rooms, and thoughtful touches (like a towel for muddy paws and water bottles replenished daily) made us feel completely at home.
When is Lytes Cary Manor Open?
Opening times can vary seasonally, especially during winter months. The gardens and estate are typically open from March to October, with reduced access in November and December. The manor house itself often has more limited opening hours.
For 2025, the expected opening hours are:
- Gardens and estate: Daily, 10am – 5pm (Mar-Oct)
- Manor house: Wed-Sun, 11am – 4pm (Mar-Oct)
Check ahead on the National Trust website before your visit to confirm times.
Don’t Forget a Drink!
Water-to-Go bottles are a game-changer for travellers, hikers, and dog owners who love the great outdoors. These reusable bottles come with advanced 3-in-1 filtration technology, removing up to 99.9999% of contaminants from any non-saltwater source. That means whether you’re exploring Ilminster’s countryside or simply out on a long dog walk, you’ll always have access to clean, safe drinking water.
What National Trust Properties are Nearby?
If you plan a longer stay, you’re in luck — Somerset is full of beautiful National Trust (and English Heritage) sites. Here are a few within easy reach:
- Tintinhull – 9-minute drive
- Treasurer’s House – 17-minute drive
- Montacute House – 17-minute drive
- Barrington Court – 30-minute drive
- Stoke-sub-Hamdon (English Heritage) – 16-minute drive
- Muchelney Abbey (English Heritage) – 16-minute drive
English Heritage Discount Code
English Heritage Deals: Get 20% off memberships purchased by direct debit by using the promo code PV20OFF at the checkout. It is valid until 31 December 2025. Making a single membership £57.60 per year and a couple’s membership £100.20. Get yours here.
Visiting Lytes Cary Manor Review
Whether you’re here to explore the historic hall, relax in the tranquil manor garden, attend the craft fair, or enjoy a longer countryside escape in the Lytes Cary Manor Holiday Let, this charming destination has something for every kind of visitor. It’s an excellent base for discovering more of Somerset’s manor houses, walking trails, and countryside experiences.
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