On the edge of Stogumber one finds the opportunity to let "the train take the strain" as the West Somerset Steam Railway, running from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead, passes through our tranquil and delightful station making it easy to forget the hustle and bustle of 20th century life.

Following a track of just over 20 miles, this is the longest privately owned steam railway in the country.

There are many National Trust or English Heritage properties within easy driving distance. Dunster Castle situated in the charming medieval village of the same name, and famous for its Yarn Market, is approximately 20 minutes drive away on the route to Minehead. More information about Dunster can be found at www.dunster-exmoor.co.uk

For the garden lover Taunton's lovely Hestercombe Gardens are approximately 16 miles away. There are numerous other gardens open to the public, many of which are small, private havens of tranquillity.

Each year in Stogumber during June there may be between 12 to over 20 gardens open to the public to raise money for local charities.

With a host of good pubs and tea rooms serving competitively priced meals of excellent quality, Somerset also caters for discerning lovers of good food.

For more information about Exmoor National Park go to www.exmoor.com

For more information about the Quantock Hills go to www.quantockonline.co.uk

Also within easy reach is the county town of Taunton and the famous village of Glastonbury