Great Garden Escape

Plot your escape for 2024 on this unique day trip. Boarding again Fridays and Saturdays from April-December, we will be whisking guests on a First Class adventure from London Paddington to the heart of the West Country to experience all things Somerset. Explore picturesque gardens and ancient woodland, discover the art of cyder making and enjoy the finest fare plucked from the soil beneath your feet. Finally, relax back into your seat and savour a picturesque afternoon tea, as the miles fly by and we return you to the city.

Contact [email protected] or call us on 01963 577777 for any questions or group bookings.

Further dates below with our Seasonal Specials.


Seasonal Specials

Digging deeper into some of the areas which inspire and shape almost everything that we do, the Great Garden Escape Seasonal Specials programme offers a unique opportunity to explore the estate with our experts, and dive into the history and traditions of Somerset. Enjoying bespoke itineraries and menus, as well as a few surprises along the way.

gge train

What's Included?

Tickets:

Running Fridays and Saturdays from April to December 2024

The Great Garden Escape ticket includes First Class return travel from London Paddington to The Newt in Somerset; guided tours, talks and tastings; meals from breakfast through to afternoon tea; plus 12-month Newt Membership (for a return visit under one’s own steam!)

Ticket price £345pp for adults, £295pp for children (ages 5-15)

Group bookings and exclusive use are available, with the option to tailor your escape with bespoke experiences.

Example Itinerary:

  • Meet & Greet at Paddington Station, First-Class Lounge, Platform 1 at 0830hrs
  • Train departs from Paddington Station at 0904hrs
  • Breakfast on board at leisure
  • Train arrives at Castle Cary Station at 1029hrs/1026hrs*
  • Transfer to The Newt in Somerset
  • Welcome and refreshments on arrival
  • Garden Tour at 1100hrs
  • Lunch in The Garden Café at 1215hrs
  • Exploration & Shopping at 1400hrs
  • Cyder Tour & Tasting at 1500hrs
  • Transfer to Castle Cary Station
  • Train departs Castle Cary Station at 1602hrs/1628hrs*
  • Afternoon Tea onboard at leisure
  • Train arrives at Paddington Station 1729hrs/1806hrs*
  • Fond farewells

*Friday/Saturday times. Please note, Great Garden Escape operates within the constraints of the National Rail network and timings may be subject to change.

"If you're not the planning type, The Newt in Somerset's Great Garden Escape is a fun-filled pre-organised day trip that shows off the best of the British countryside."

Condé Nast Traveller

Explore the Gardens

Mixing ornamental and productive elements, our gardens are a feast for the eyes and stomach. We share the land with a host of wildlife; you may spot native deer promenading in the woods or Great Crested newts bathing in the ponds.

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