This September, visitors are invited to step back in time and explore the enchanting Halswell estate in Somerset during a special Heritage Open Days event. For one weekend only, on Saturday, September 13, and Sunday, September 14, 2025, the Goathurst Village Heritage Trail offers a unique, free opportunity to discover the estate’s rich history, art, and architecture—no tickets required.
The trail centers on the magnificent Halswell House and Park, extending through the tranquil Mill Wood with its cascading lakes and a remarkable collection of 18th-century follies. Highlights include the elegant Temple of Harmony, the picturesque Rotunda (also known as Mrs Busby’s Temple), and the privately owned Temple of Pan, all exemplifying exquisite Georgian design. Visitors can also tour St Edward’s Church in Goathurst, home to stunning funerary monuments including the recently restored Grade II* Willis family monument—a chest tomb crowned by an imposing ten-foot Corinthian column, acclaimed as one of the grandest of its kind.
Architectural aficionados will appreciate the Bath Stone Bridge in Mill Wood, believed to have been designed by Thomas Wright of Durham, and the Temple of Harmony, commissioned by Thomas Prowse MP and completed in 1767. The temple’s interiors were created by the famed architect Robert Adam, inspired by Rome’s Temple of Portunus, offering an extraordinary glimpse into classical architectural elegance.
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The estate is open for exploration from 12 noon to 5pm during both days, with the Temple of Pan accessible from 2pm to 5pm. No advance booking is necessary, and all events are free of charge. Refreshments, including sandwiches, tea, and cakes, will be available at St Edward’s Church throughout the weekend, with additional treats served at the Temple of Pan during its open hours.
Don’t miss this rare chance to experience the hidden heritage treasures of Halswell—a true Somerset gem brought vividly to life for one memorable weekend.