Discover more at Lytes Cary
Find out when Lytes Cary is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Exploring the estate at Lytes Cary Manor
There's plenty to see on the Lytes Cary Manor estate with three waymarked walks. Discover why White Walk is named so, find the dovecote and look out for water voles on the banks of the River Cary. Gentle, level walks here give opportunity for many wildlife encounters.
The White Walk
The White Walk takes you into woodland that is a valuable environment for birds. The field name, Raven’s Nest, suggests there were once trees of a height that would attract ravens to the area.
See if you can spot chiffchaffs, bullfinches and nuthatches feeding on fruit from the old orchard. The clouds of white cherry plum blossom gives this walk its name from their frothy petals and heavy springtime scent.
The Estate Walk
The Estate Walk is waymarked in red and leads you along an ancient route called Ridgway Lane. Head back past the Dovecote which was only built in the 1930s but was inspired by the 18th-century dovecote at Avebury Manor in Wiltshire.
Extend your walk round open fields before skirting back by the community allotments. This is a good place to see plenty of birdlife and often a chance of seeing a roe deer as well.
The River Walk
The River Walk, waymarked in purple, loops around the open fields and the River Cary. Look out for the field margins which are cut late in the year and provide habitat for overwintering bees and insects. Continue along the river bank which is deliberately left undisturbed to provide reeds and rushes for resident water voles.
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Eating and shopping at Lytes Cary Manor
The tea-room serves light bites, drinks and sweet treats. Browse the selection in the second-hand book barn and find a pre-loved read to take home.
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Things to see in the garden at Lytes Cary Manor
Explore the garden and see the unusual shaped topiary trees and hedges or catch the light on the sundial in the orchard.
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History of Lytes Cary Manor
Find out about the people who lived here including those rewarded by royalty and a couple who rescued the manor from decay. See how the manor and garden changed over time.
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Family-friendly things to do at Lytes Cary Manor
Learn about some of the wildlife that thrives here and the carved characters and creatures you may spot in the house or simply enjoy some quality time in the great outdoors.
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Things to see and do in Lytes Cary Manor house
Find out about exploring the manor and the objects on display inside. See a 16th-century herbal book translated into English, leather mannequins and an embroidered mirror.
Countryside and woodland
Plan a visit to one of the special countryside places in our care and discover the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Pack your walking boots and get ready to explore woodlands, valleys and rivers.
Countryside areas in Somerset
There's a wealth of outdoor places from tors and gorges to woodlands and streams to visit in Somerset. Climb hills to see far-reaching views or relax and watch the children play in the fresh air.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.