Between being at the helm of the brand and unveiling a new collaboration with River Island, she find the time to shepherd us through some of its most magical nooks and crannies.
For someone who's never been to Somerset before: what's the first place you'd take them to make them fall in love with it – and why?
For an easy introduction, Castle Cary, for its perfect honeyed beauty, its gently rolling surroundings and the ease with which you can wander it. There are brilliant independent shops, lovely places to eat, and it makes for an idyllic afternoon. You can take a direct train from London, and the town is a short cab ride from there. Nearby, you also have The Newt (they have a shop at the station), where, with membership, you can visit the estate, gardens and restaurants – just five to ten minutes away.
If you only see one thing in Somerset, make it ___ because ___
That's a cruel question. I would say climb Glastonbury Tor to St Michael's Tower on a misty day – it feels as though you're standing on an island in a sea of cloud, with views stretching as far as Wiltshire and Wales. There is a real sense of magic about it.
What's your favourite place in Somerset that most visitors don't know about – but absolutely should?
Where I grew up – St Catherine's Valley, just outside Bath.
Describe your perfect Somerset day from morning to night. Where are you, and what are you doing?
We'd have friends staying for the weekend in spring, start with a lazy breakfast, then walk over the hill to Oakhill through the bluebell woods (when in season) for a cider. Later, a BBQ in the garden with friends and family.
What's your favourite walk in Somerset – and what makes it special at different times of year?
Where I grew up is something of an anomaly. You're five miles from the centre of Bath, yet there's no phone signal – just wildlife and expansive countryside in a protected area of outstanding natural beauty. It is a very special valley with old fashioned woodland, a stream running down the valley and fresh springs all around it and historic meadows. The spring to the summer is lush and green, the autumn shows the woodland in all its glory. There are lots of public footpaths but, as we grew up there, we know all of the special hidden places. There is a very lovely walk from St Catherine (where there is a beautiful little church) up to Marshfield, an incredibly pretty village with the best village shop, post office (Muddy Boots Marshfield) and pub, The Catherine Wheel. (It is cheating a little bit as Marshfield is the very south of Gloucestershire, or the very north of Somerset, but it is such a lovely community.)
Which three shops in Somerset do you always find an excuse to visit – and what do you love about each?
Namstore. Sharan has the best taste – beautiful ceramics and perfect things to save up for and cherish and give as gifts. I am going to cheat and say Bruton as a whole – there are brilliant shops and you just need to park at the end of town and wander up. Start with Smouk, which is in our old shop space. Sarah has lovely Moroccan things and has opened our old shop space into a collective of independent brands – you always find something there. Then head up the high street and any shop you pass is full of beautiful things, including the Spar shop where you'll find amazing produce and wine. Options for lunch or dinner or drinks are all very good. I would recommend Briar for some of the best food around. Mole Valley Farmers is my most favourite shop in the world. You can buy anything from a tractor to a pair of boots and a bottle of wine.
Where do you go when you want a really good lunch or coffee? What makes it special? There are so many good places to eat & coffee.
Lunch at Higher Farm – there are always things going on there, really delicious food, much of which comes from the farm. What they do is very clever.
And where do you go when you're celebrating something or showing Somerset off to friends?
I know everyone probably says this, but Osip is completely exquisite – worth saving up for. Their new space is truly beautiful, and you can now stay there. You should go at least once in your life.
Where do you go in Somerset for a real culture fix – a gallery, museum, historic place, festival or event – and why does it matter to you?
It would be silly not to say Glastonbury Festival. We can hear it from our house, and I have been lucky enough to go for the past couple of years. It matters because no matter what is going on in the world, it is extraordinary that over a quarter of a million strangers from all over the world can descend to this place and get along; show incredible creativity, collaboration and kindness to each other. But there is so much going on all the time in Somerset. From the Cheese & Grain in Frome which has one of the most eclectic timetables I have seen, to mini festivals to Hauser & Wirth to The Holburne Museum.
Is there a place in Somerset that feels especially 'yours' – somewhere you return to again and again? Why that spot?
St Catherine. My father's family have been there for generations; my mother is buried there, and she created the most beautiful world around her. I was married there, and my family still live there.
What do you think people get wrong about Somerset – and what's the reality?
That's a hard question! It depends who's asking. There is a huge amount going on socially and creatively – it's far from the quiet, vegetable-garden life people imagine. And I find the winters much easier here than in a city.
Complete this sentence: 'If you really want to experience Somerset properly, you should ___'
Spend more than a weekend here – there is so much to do and see.
