Combe Sydenham Country Park

Combe Sydenham Country Park nestles in a hidden Exrnoor Valley. The buildings give you a very special opportunity to see history restored. The estate allows you to observe unspoilt nature at its best.

Combe Sydenham is an Elizabethan building incorporating the remains of a medieval house, and was the home of Elizabeth Sydenham who married Sir Francis Drake. It is alleged that Sir Francis Drake fired a cannonball into the grounds of the manor to warn Elizabeth not to marry another man. The cannonball is still on show, in support of this seemingly farfetched story, but at least Drake managed to wed his intended bride.

Combe Sydenham manor is alleged to be haunted by the ghost of a cavalier. Nearby was once a silver and lead mine which was worked in the 18th century with the ore being transported by packhorse to Minehead from where it was shipped to Wales to be smelted. The ore contained 62% lead and 4% silver, and there are items still in existence made out of this local silver. Soft lead called plumbago originally used in lead pencils has also been found.

Combe Sydenham is privately owned by Mr. and Mrs. Theed whose dedication and vision bring you this unique blend of respect for the past and determination to provide for the future.

All the family will enjoy a visit to Combe Sydenham. Young and old alike will find their interest in the past and in nature rewarded. It is our aim that you should leave wanting to return.

Enjoy a guided tour around part of the historic house and gardens. Listen to the entertaining tales of a dragon, Sir Francis Drake and the Duke of Wellington.

Explore for yourself the 500 acre estate. Glimpse the shy fallow deer and, if you are quiet, see a rich variety of birds and other wildlife as you walk the peaceful woodland paths. Find the deserted hamlet of Goodley. It is said that whole families were wiped out here by the Black Death in 1348 but a small farming community survived into Victorian times. If you have the energy climb to The High Point for wide ranging views across this part of Somerset, the Severn Estuary and South Wales.

Spend a day at Combe Sydenham Country Park - take a fresh look at England's history and natural beauty.

Well behaved dogs are welcome if kept on a lead but they will not be allowed into the house and gardens.

Tel: 08007838572

Email

GUIDED ADULT GROUP TOURS
West Wing, Gardens and, if there is ,
time, the Corn Mill.
Bookings all year by appointment.
 

GUIDED CHILDREN'S GROUP VISITS
Schools, Clubs and children's groups
Literacy, Science, History, Geography,
'FUN'.
Schools - any school day all year
Others - by arrangement

MOUNTAIN BIKES
Mountain Bikes - bring your own -

Ring Mark 01984 624794 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

fishing
Two Troutmasters Waters, A Beginners' Pond and a Coarse Pond.
Ring Jim 01984 656273 07795 096020
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Contributed by: Stephen Toogood