Hellens — Attraction in Much Marcle

This was my third visit to Helen’s Flower Festival, and while I’ve enjoyed previous years, I’ll have to seriously reconsider returning next year. The food provision at Sunday’s event (8th June) was abysmal. I understand that a catering issue arose with the pizza vendor failing to show up — but surely a backup plan should have been in place.

The lack of food options left many attendees disappointed, especially those of us who came in groups and couldn’t even queue or eat together. I personally waited over 45 minutes in line for some Greek food, only to give up, find a chair, and then continue waiting a further 20 minutes to finally be served. This isn’t Glastonbury — it’s a small flower festival, and if the solution is charging slightly more to ensure adequate catering for paying guests, then that should be considered. The poor organisation around food really dampened...

What a superb day out we had yesterday. 19 of us enjoyed a fascinating tour of Hellens led by our lovely guides Justine and Joanna. Their interesting stories brought the history of the house and it's occupants to life. It was like stepping back in time. It's a treasure trove of delightful rooms, wonderful architecture, artifacts and paintings set in a beautiful location with tranquil gardens free to explore at anytime. Our delicious cream tea in the sunshine was the best way to end what had been a perfect day, none of us wanted to leave. The staff are amazing, special thanks to Justine who was so friendly and helpful throughout. Everyone vowed to return with family and friends. It was my 3rd visit and I will be back. It never disappoints, it just keeps getting better and better. It is definitely the jewel in the crown for...

An experience that will linger long in the memory. The house is only open twice a week and then by guided tour three times in the day; book in advance to avoid disappointment. It has a fascinating, often eclectic, mix of objects and artwork with a sometimes disconcerting feeling of the ancient rooms still being lived in, as they indeed are by the Munthe family. Our guide, Hugh, was superb: full of enthusiasm for the building and its history and a great story teller. Thank you for your time and good humour. Indeed, all the staff, especially in the lovely tea room, were welcoming and highly attentive. The gardens are an intriguing mix of the ancient and modern and very beautiful. Highly recommended and we look forward to returning when the new art...