The perfect day doesn’t exi…actually, it does. Picture this: starting the day with a Reformer Pilates class to undo last night’s decisions, before browsing luxury brands, lingering over a coffee and cake in a beautifully restored café, and, if motivation strikes, ticking off a few emails in a peaceful co-working space. Sprawled across 3.5acres in the postcard-worthy market town of Shepton Mallet, Kilver Court & Gardens somehow manages to make wellness, shopping, and productivity feel like a treat rather than a chore.

What originally started in the late 19th century by Ernest Jardine as a recreational park for his workers, complete with gardens, allotments, and a boating lake, Kilver has evolved with the times while keeping one foot firmly in its heritage. Later shaped by Herbert Showering of Babycham fame and Roger Saul, founder of Mulberry, the estate did a one-eighty and is now back in the hands of the Showering family – blending its rich history with contemporary charm through retail, cultural events, and beautifully restored spaces. Mooch around the shops and you’ll find Mulberry, TOAST, Makers & Merchants, and Courthouse Interiors alongside A&M Pilates, Distill Coworking, free parking, and a café serving seasonal dishes, pastries, smoothies and Brothers Cider – a little nod to Kilver’s roots.

And of course, the gardens remain the star of the show. Ponder through the peaceful grounds, including the George Whitelegg-designed rockery (gold-medal winner of Chelsea Flower Show obvs), general admission costing £10 a pop, then settle into one of the estates regular events, from Friday Summer Lates with live music and courtyard dining to Thursday morning yoga.

Whether you’re there to shop, stretch, stroll, or simply switch off, Kilver Court & Gardens makes a spot that has it all. You’ll catch us spending the whole day here – and probably coming back the next weekend, too.