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 mark@exmooradventures.com
fishing
Two Troutmasters Waters, A Beginners' Pond and a Coarse Pond.
Ring Jim 01984 656273 07795 096020
iim.laver@tiscali.co.uk
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