The History of
Walnut Barn Estate
Our Story & Heritage
Walnut Barn Estate is a traditional working farm with a difference. Spread across our 50-acre farm estate at the foot of the Mendip Hills, we have seven beautifully converted self-catering holiday lets that welcome guests from far and wide seeking an authentic taste of the Somerset countryside.
As a family-run farm spanning three generations, we take genuine pride in sharing our passion for rural life and love it when guests feel part of our extended family. Whether you’re joining us for a magical group celebration or planning a peaceful dog-friendly retreat with your partner and four-legged friend, we’re here to help you create memories that last a lifetime.
We can’t wait to welcome you to our little corner of Somerset.
Warmest wishes,
Mark, James,
Sharon & all the team at Walnut Barn Estate
Where It All Started
Where? A once run-down and ramshackle farm in Hutton, Somerset. Let’s just say it was in need of a little ‘TLC’!
When? Almost three decades ago.
Why? Owner and builder Mark had a vision to create a welcoming place where people could relax comfortably, connect with friends and loved ones, and breathe in fresh Somerset air (the ultimate antidote to chaotic urban living).
30 years ago, the terms ‘staycation’ and ‘glamping‘ weren’t on most people’s radars. But even back then, Mark was on a mission to inspire British holidaymakers to explore the beauty on their own doorsteps. Whether you were a keen camper or couldn’t be without a hot shower or a comfy bed, he wanted it to be a place for all to enjoy.
Fast forward to today, and our charming, family-run site offers exactly that: a little something for everyone. From peaceful pads to switch off and snooze in to modern properties made for a party, we have it all here, and we couldn’t be prouder.
A Brief History of Walnut Barn Estate
Our estate sits in the sleepy village of Hutton, known in the Domesday Book as Hotune, meaning hill-spur enclosure. Long before modern maps, Iron Age farmers carved field systems into Elborough Hill, and Roman traders followed a local feeder road branching from the Fosse Way.
Orchard & Manor Heritage
The land you’re staying on was once part of the great orchards belonging to Hutton Court Estate, a Grade II listed manor house with medieval origins and Tudor additions. Through centuries, it passed from the Payne family to the Codringtons, then into the hands of local gentry who expanded its orchards and parkland.
Back in the Medieval period, cider-makers pressed apples in stone barns and tended rows of espaliered trees, their harvest feasts giving rise to the village’s Wassail celebrations. Today, we continue that agrarian tradition with our own Wassail and cider-making a beloved highlight that the locals love to enjoy.
Ancient Routes Through Hutton
Just beyond our estate lies a lesser-known Roman route known locally as the Ilchester Spur, connecting Ilchester to coastal settlements. Legionaries and merchants once paused here, stocking up on grain and hardy orchard produce before continuing their journey through Somerset.
When you wander our paths, you tread an ancient highway of commerce and culture.
The Hutton Dabaso Connection
Did you know? Hutton is twinned with a small village in Kenya named Dabaso. This twinning partnership was established back in 1999 and was an initiative organised by Walnut Barn Estate owner Mark. Mark was inspired to set up the partnership after visiting Kenya on a holiday in the 90s and forging a deep connection with the locals. While there, he helped to build a local school and provide vital infrastructure for the community.
Eventually, Mark was handed a People of the Year Award by Her Majesty the Queen for his extraordinary work. Mark was even made an honorary chief by the locals in the village.
To this day, Mark regularly returns to visit Dabaso. He also plays a pivotal role in raising funds for Hutton-Dabaso Twinning Association through fantastic charity events, many of which take place right here at Walnut Barn. The whole team are now proudly and emotionally entangled with their friends on the other side of the globe.