Lytes Cary Manor, Somerset, England

Our Royal Oaks Foundation membership passes granted us access to all of the National Trust locations. We decided to visit Lytes Cary Manor for several reasons. It was billed as a beautiful arts and crafts inspired garden with several collections of topiary, including the twelve Apostles. We were anxious to see that!

This medieval manor house was originally the family home of the Elizabethan herbalist Henry Lyte. On display is Lyte's Herbal, a 16th century plant directory.

These leather mannequins are referred to as 'the good companions'. There use is unknown, but it is thought that they may have been brought to the table when there were 13 guests in attendance to avoid having an unlucky number at the table.

 This display cabinet is Dutch walnut and contains an 18th century miniature Regency cream ware dinner service. It is thought to be a travelling salesman's sample.

The grounds include a 14th century chapel and beautiful gardens that feature mixed borders, hidden paths and garden rooms enclosed by high topiary hedges.

The brochure promised a relaxing and uplifting visit to this harmonious manor. And the topiary Apostles, all 12 of them, well, lets just say, our pre-travel imagination and anticipation took us beyond the12 topiary shrubs grown and manicured here.