Meet Us
We're Ben and Georgina, a couple who made the leap from a 2-bed flat in London to a 17th-century cottage in Somerset. We moved to Appletrees in November 2025 with big dreams and muddy boots.
Ben Huss
Creative Technologist
Ben is a creative technologist specialising in robotics, drones, 360-degree video, and AR/VR experiences. He has a keen interest in AI and how it's reshaping creative industries.
Currently, Ben is working on Cobble, a GPS-powered audio storytelling app that brings London's history to life as you walk, Barklife, an app for dog owners, and Fileseal. He also hosts a podcast exploring the intersection of technology and creativity.
Ben lectures in immersive media at UCL, sharing his expertise with the next generation of creative technologists.
Georgina Rose
Florist
Georgina is a florist who has trained and worked with some of the most respected names in British floristry. Originally from a village in Somerset, she's returning to her roots.
Her journey includes time at Rebel Rebel in East London, known for their bold, unconventional arrangements; The Real Flower Company, specialists in British-grown scented roses; and Electric Daisy Flower Farm, pioneers of the British cut-flower movement.
She's now planning to grow her own personal cutting garden here at Appletrees.
The Cottage
A Piece of History
Appletrees Cottage has deep roots in Clanville. The oldest part of the building dates back to the 17th century, making it the oldest surviving building in the hamlet.
The site was once home to a dairy farm, and you can still find original stone walls in the garden. The cottage has been extended and adapted over the centuries, but retains its historic character with thick stone walls, low beams, and that unmistakable sense of permanence.
The Land
We're fortunate to have around one acre of garden to explore and develop. The property includes several mature apple trees (hence the name!) and a magnificent large pear tree that dominates one corner of the garden.
The previous owners clearly loved this land, and we're committed to nurturing it further while making it our own.
Our Plans
We have plenty of ideas for Appletrees...
Chickens
Fresh eggs from happy hens. We're looking to home rescue chickens and planning the coop build out of reclaimed material.
No-Dig Vegetable Plot
Following Charles Dowding's no-dig methods for year-round growing. We were delighted to discover his garden, Homeacres, is just 5 minutes up the road.
Cutting Garden
Georgina's domain - rows of dahlias, sweet peas, and seasonal flowers for arrangements.
Treehouse
That magnificent pear tree is crying out for a treehouse. Watch this space.
Natural Pond
A natural filtered dipping pool for wild swimming at home.
Wood-Fired Sauna
Nothing beats a hot sauna followed by a cold plunge.
Apple Press Restoration
We discovered an old rusty vintage apple press hidden in the garden. The plan is to restore it and put it to good use for apple pressing in autumn 2026.
Why This Guide?
When we arrived in Somerset, we found ourselves constantly discovering hidden gems - the perfect dog walk, a brilliant farm shop, a pub with real character. We started keeping notes, and those notes became this guide.
It's primarily a reference for ourselves, but we hope it's useful for anyone else exploring this beautiful corner of England. Castle Cary and its surroundings have so much to offer, from ancient hillforts to world-class gardens, from traditional cider farms to contemporary art galleries.
If you spot something we've missed or have a recommendation, we'd love to hear from you.