Exmoor National Park Authority

Main Activity:

Volunteer and help us uncover and restore Ashcombe Gardens in Simonsbath, clearing paths, carrying out gardening, planting, pruning and researching its fascinating history.

The Gardens lie at the heart of what was once the Royal Hunting Forest of Exmoor. In 1818 the Forest was purchased by John Knight, an industrialist from the West Midlands who planned to transform it into a great estate, with a mansion at its heart in Simonsbath, surrounded by picturesque gardens. Ashcombe Gardens represent one of the last Picturesque landscapes in England but it’s original vision was never completed. Traces of garden terraces, bridges and paths remain, but very little is known about the overall plan for the gardens..

Volunteers meet regularly on the first Monday of the month.

Location:

Ashcombe Gardens, Simonsbath TA24 7SH 

Off the B3223, between the Exmoor Forest Inn and the church.

what3words: ///gearing.bounty.breaches

Grid ref: SS773394

Parking in car park on site.

Time Commitment:

Flexible

Duration:

Ongoing

Skills/Ability needed:

The initial plan is to clear the overgrown vegetation and open the network of paths that wind up the valley from the car park.  You would be using hand tools and health and safety training will be provided where necessary.

What you need to bring:

Suitable outdoor clothing & sturdy boots, strong gardening gloves if you have them. We will supply any protective personal equipment required

What’s in it for you:

Opportunity to work outdoors in the stunning surroundings of the Barle Valley.  The opportunity to take part in an exciting restoration project, working alongside staff from Exmoor National Park to uncover this fascinating landscape.