We've been thinking of staying here but the reviews on TA are pretty mixed. Possible change of ownership in 2008.

The idea of staying at Spread Eagle and being able to take photos early and late after people leave appeals to me, but not if it's going to be an unpleasant stay.

Has anyone eaten or stayed there lately?

Hi Wren - I live 15 mins from Stourhead and pop into the Spread Eagle occasionally for a drink.

I can't comment on the accm, unfortunately - but the setting is certainly delightful. I'll be down there in the next couple of days - I can check it out if you like.

An alternatively might be to stay in nearby Mere.

Steve

Hi Steve, did you go?

Mere has a really nice place, Castleton House. Do you know about any nice places to eat there?

Still considering Spread Eagle. It's only one night and I could take photos in Stourhead early .... assuming it's not raining!

Hi Wren - Yes, I did. I call into Stourhead at least once a month - such a lovely setting ...

That place in Mere looks nice, doesn't it? I don't know any restaurants down that way, unfortunately - but there are several pubs. I'm sure your hosts would be able to recommend somewhere ...

Steve

I think I'm leaning towards staying in Mere if they have a room. I agree, the setting of Spread Eagle looks so charming, I just feel uneasy about some of the "details"

The George Inn near Castleton House seems pretty popular for dinners, so I have emailed Castleton House. If it's a beautiful sunny morning the next day and I can't get into Stourhead Gardens for pictures until 9:00 I'll probably regret it!

There's nothing to stop you going into Stourhead at the crack of dawn if you want, Wren. I've never seen the gate locked, and have gone in 'after hours' myself. Locals do ...

If you go in before opening hours - it's free

Steve

Stayed there too many years ago to remember the rooms, but the food and drink was very good

When I visited Stourhead I stayed at the nearby Somerset Arms in Maiden Bradley. Absolutedly fantastic pub with (posh, brand new) rooms. I hear Kiera Knightley stayed here recently, so obviously I'm in great company:

http://thesomersetarms.wordpress.com/

And I thought this was a porn filmed in England.

Steve, thanks for the tip, let me know your phone number in case we get arrested!

I did book at Castleton, but Somerset Arms is less than 10 min away so we may plan to eat dinner there. They are regional winners for best gastropub and best newcomer.

Where would we be in all our travels without the knowledge and tips from this board?

THANKS!