The Newt in Somerset launches seasonal trips

The Newt in Somerset has announced a seasonal twist to its first-class train service that is due to transport guests from London Paddington to Castle Cary between 6 May and 24 September for a foodie day out.

This year’s Great Garden Escape service, a partnership between the Newt and Great Western Railway, sees the addition of Friday journeys as well as a series of seasonally themed weekend trips taking place across the summer months, aptly named the ‘Seasonal Specials’.

These include: ‘Bees & Honey’ on 29-30 July, which features a visit to the multi-sensory Beezantium exhibition; ‘History & Heritage’ on 19-20 August, which pays homage to the estate’s past; and ‘Harvest’ on 23-24 September, which includes a tractor trailer tour of the apple orchards and a visit to Avalon Farm, which is normally closed to the public.

The train journey is a full-day event that begins with a breakfast picnic coordinated by estate head chef Alan Stewart, who was previously at Menuwatch-featured Manson restaurant in London.

This is followed by a three-course vegetable-led lunch at the Garden Café, as well as a visit to the estate’s Farm Shop and cellar master Greg Carnell’s Cyder Cellar. Afternoon tea will be available for the return journey.

Great Garden Escape tickets cost £335 per adult and £260 per child, and cover first class return travel from London Paddington to the Newt in Somerset; guided tours, talks and tastings; all meals from breakfast and lunch through to afternoon tea; plus 12-month Newt Membership.