Mansion setting for agricultural benefit

31 July

All the fun of the summer fair is coming to Forde Abbey near Chard this July, in support of Britain’s farming community.

The Somerset estate, home to a former Cistercian monastery that was founded in 1141, is putting on its fourth such event, with proceeds going to the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institute (RABI). Set up in 1860, the charity provides assistance to those farmers and farm workers who are struggling to make ends meet.  The previous three events at Forde have raised about £50,000.

Visitors to the country fair will find entertainment galore, including a falconry display, dog agility, fly fishing demonstrations, Punch and Judy, sideshows, classic cars and majorettes, plus craft stalls and farmers’ market.

As well as enjoying the entertainment, you can take time to wander around Forde Abbey’s 30 acres of award-winning gardens. The house became a private dwelling after the dissolution of the monasteries in 1539. It has been the home of the Roper family since 1905.

The gardens are open daily throughout the year 10am-4.30pm, and the house is open noon-4pm Tues-Fri, Sundays and Bank Holidays from 18 March to end October.

Tel: (01460) 220231; www.fordeabbey.co.uk.

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