For many of you, holidays abroad are still just a dream this year. This is why at PAOLITA we have decided to take you through our guide to one of the dreamiest places in the UK to visit, scenic Somerset. Last weekend, PAOLITA had the pleasure of visiting a number of attractions in the area and immersing ourselves in the arts and culture scene tucked away in the west country. Read below to discover our ultimate guide on where to go and what to wear in this beautiful part of the glorious British countryside.
PAOLITA’s Guide to Somerset
Hauser & Wirth
Hauser & Wirth Somerset is an innovative gallery and multi-purpose arts complex that functions as a location for exploring conceptual art, contemporary architecture, and the stunning Somerset countryside via new and unique exhibitions. Behind the gallery buildings, an outstanding manicured garden, created by globally-renowned landscape architect Piet Oudolf, has a rotating programme of outdoor sculptures and houses the Radi Pavilion, designed by Smiljan Radi.
The institution also has a passion for giving back to local communities. Founder’s Iwan and Manuela Wirth reside in the area and support a variety of local organisations. Their charity contributions are primarily focused on the fields of art, architecture, landscape, conservation, gardening, food, education, and community.
Their education programme also offers opportunities for individuals, schools, special interest groups, families, and outreach activities. In addition to the exhibition programme, the gallery hosts a series of talks, seminars, and events given by artists, specialists, and curators that are available to schools, colleges, universities, and the general public.
What To Wear to Hauser & Wirth
Ideal for a cultural summers day, our Cleo Midi Off the Shoulder Dress makes the perfect pair with trainers and a tote while you explore the magic of Hauser & Wirth Somerset and wonder the gardens.
Marston Park
Referred to as “a playground for creativity with grown-up food & drink” Marston Park is the perfect setting for a creative break in this innovative campsite. They stand by the ethos that the best way to get inspired is to be in a beautiful place, with the tools you need and interesting, and interested people. They host creatives of all practices and backgrounds who are working on projects as well as external visitors and members.
The unique range of accommodation means you can choose between staying in a boho-style canvas yurt for some tranquil ‘glamping’ or reside in a (limited time only) retro-futurist style spaceship suite, designed and restored by artist Craig Barnes.
Marston Park also offers a wide range of classes and treatments for you to partake in during your stay or visit, with activities ranging from nature painting, yoga, full moon sound baths, calligraphy and life drawing.
This summer, the park is also teaming up with Pikes Ibiza for three glorious summer luxury weekends, bringing the spirit of Ibiza to Somerset. The event will include appearances from Sister Bliss, Bushwacka!, Sally Rodgers (A Man Called Adam) and many more. In true Pikes style, the event is hosting a ‘Rockovery’ zone with Cosmic Pineapple founder Kim Booth. Expect a sprinkling of Cosmic fairy dust over Marston Park as you experience a Crystal Bowl sound bath, a Cacao ceremony and a yoga class. There is also well-being fun to be had in the hot tubs, ice baths and wild swimming pool, or get creative and join Mary Cross for a willow weaving workshop and Kim Birchall for a masterclass in Raku pottery!
What To Wear to Marston Park
Our Urania Maxi Shirt Dress makes the perfect choice for your visit to Marston Park. Ideal for taking you from daytime casual to Pikes Ibiza chic, let the metallic embroidery glisten in the Somerset Sunset as you take in the scenery.
At The Chapel
With a new art gallery and boho residents, Bruton, Somerset is changing, and At The Chapel is a delightfully chic bolthole for this evolving scene.
At The Chapel, which began in 2008 as a restaurant, bar, artisan bakery, and wine shop, now offers eight guest rooms in its super-stylish, white, minimalist setting, which is decorated with art lent by neighbouring art gallery Hauser & Wirth. At The Chapel also provides food for Hauser & Wirth’s gallery restaurant, ‘At The Farm’.
This light and modern space is the perfect setting for a tranquil lunch or dinner after a long day of immersing yourself in the growing arts and culture scene in the area.
What To Wear to At The Chapel
Match the bright and minimalist setting of At The Chapel with our minimally chic White Cotton Ruffle Dress. This versatile number is great for smart-casual or evening dressing, perfect for packing light and looking fabulous, whatever the setting.