The Blackdown Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is one of Somerset and Devon's greatest rural gems, having the special qualities of unspoiled beauty together with a rare sense of timelessness. A paradise for walkers and riders, with nature reserves and forest parks, a vast selection of footpaths and bridleways can be found (the owners hold details of walks). For nature lovers, many rare species can be found including barn owls, orchids, kingfishers and unusual butterflies. The Blackdowns give magnificent views across the Vale of Taunton and the 175ft Wellington Monument (3 miles away) erected in honour of the Duke of Wellington is the most famous landmark.
There are a variety of pubs and restaurants close to the Old Pigsty. The nearest, the Merry Harriers is approximately 2 miles away. The nearest post office is 2 miles away. Rumwell Farm Shop is 7 miles from the accommodation. The nearest supermarket is in Taunton, 6 miles from Churchstanton.
This beautiful area is also close to another AONB, the Quantock Hills in addition to the Somerset Levels and moors, the Brendon Hills and the market towns of Taunton and Wellington and the gateway to Exmoor; Wiveliscombe.
Bishops Lydeard Mill - to the North West of Taunton this restored water mill was opened to the public in 2003. There are a number of traditional trades and crafts on display including a wheelwright shop, saddlers shop and a thatching display. The exhibits are brought to life with the use of authentic sights and smells. The mill has a teashop with an excellent view of the waterwheel and an outside seating area for those hot British summers!
West Somerset Railway - also to the North West of Taunton at Bishops Lydeard, this is a restored county branch line of the old Great Western Railway. The trains take a 20 mile journey to Minehead, passing through varied and beautiful countryside. Besides the incredible scenery of the Quantock Hills, the farms and lanes and the towns of Dunster and Minehead, visitors can see first hand the historic steam locomotives, coaches and wagons together with the unique station buildings.
Wellington Monument - Named after the Duke of Wellington following his victory over the French at Talavera, the monument stands 175feet tall and overlooks the town of Wellington. Completed in 1854, it is owned by the National Trust and stands in 4.8 hectares affording delightful walks. On a clear day, there are spectacular views to Exmoor, the Quantocks and the Bristol Channel
Sheppy's Cider - off the A38 between Taunton and Wellington, this is a family run business providing quality cider. This is a 370 acre farm using traditional methods of production and aiming to give the public as close a view as possible of how and where its product is produced. There is a museum and cider shop, cider sampling as well as a tearoom and picnic area.
Somerset Levels - at the heart of Somerset lies an area of outstanding beauty called the levels and moors. It has international status as one of the most important wetlands of its type and is immensely rich in wildlife, being particularly important for migrating birds and otters.
Surrounded by the wetlands of the Somerset levels, Burrow Mump is a large hill topped by a ruined church. The church was used as a refuge by the Royalist troops in the Civil war and is now owned by the National Trust. The hill affords spectacular views over the village of Burrow Bridge and beyond.
Willow and Wetlands Centre - to the North East of Taunton on the Somerset levels, this is the home to a 150 year old family business and an exhibition on the traditional Somerset art of willow growing and basket making. There is a tearoom and a shop where willow crafts may be purchased together with guided walks.
Heritage trail - a self guided circular walk illustrated with brass plaques in the pavement, highlighting the many architectural gems the town has to offer
Vivary Park - Since 1851 Vivary Park has been the venue for public events and the annual flower show. The attractions on offer include a full 18 hole golf course and clubhouse, a fun putting green for all ages, picnic areas and a lakeside walk. The gardens are spectacular and there is an attractive Victorian bandstand and fountain. From time to time the park holds hugely popular outdoor events such as "Proms in the Park" and "Pop in the Park" so it is worth checking the schedule when you visit.
Taunton Farmers Market - Located in one of the town's main shopping streets every Thursday, visitors can sample and buy fresh local produce direct from the farmer. Produce on sale includes local cheeses and cider.
Taunton Antiques Market - This is one of the West Country's largest outlets with over 130 dealers under one roof.
St Mary Magdalene Church - St Mary Magdalene is right in the heart of Taunton and has been the town church since 1308. Amongst other delights, it has a splendid tower, Tudor ceiling and some fine examples of stained glass.
Somerset County Museum - conveniently located in the town centre, the museum offers a fine reflection of the life and history of the county of Somerset. As well as ongoing exhibits including toys, pottery and archaeological items, there is a changing programme of exhibitions relating to artwork. Entry to the museum is free of charge.
Somerset Cricket Museum - located at the Somerset County cricket ground, the museum houses various displays relating to county cricketers past and present including one to Somerset's Test Match players, another to wicket keepers and one to cricketing clergy!
Cothay Manor - located at Greenham near Wellington, this is a fine example of a classic medieval manor house. The house and gardens are open May to September. One of the garden's features is a series of garden rooms located off a 200 yard yew walk. The garden has been described as a "plants man's paradise".
Forde Abbey & Gardens - A former Cistercian monastery set in 30 acres of award winning gardens. There is a restaurant and gift shop in the 12th century Undercroft.
Gaulden Manor - 9 miles North West of Taunton. This is a sandstone manor house with bog and herb gardens, a herbaceous border and secret gardens. There is a plant shop.
Hestercombe Gardens - open all year round, this famous Edwardian garden was designed by Sir Edward Lutyens and planted by Gertrude Jekyll. Additionally there are 40 acres of c18th century landscape gardens with breathtaking views across the vale of Taunton to the Blackdown Hills. A visitor centre in the Victorian stable block includes a restaurant.
Nynehead Court Gardens - situated near Wellington this garden is on the National Heritage's list of gardens of historic interest.
Barrington Court - near Ilminster, the formal gardens were influenced by Gertrude Jekyll and are laid out in a series of walled rooms. There is a Tudor manor house, a plant centre and a restaurant.
Wellington Park - A popular small park linking the town of Wellington to the surrounding countryside, the land was given to the people by the town's major employer, Messrs Fox Bros and Co in 1903. It is listed as Grade II on the English Heritage register.
The Old Pigsty is also within easy reach of both the North Somerset, Devon and Dorset coasts as well as the popular walking destinations of Dartmoor and Exmoor.
Golf can be played at Taunton and Pickeridge or Oake Manor.
