Dyrham Park, National Trust
Over the summer we spent a day out at Dyrham Park, which is a National Trust property located near Bath, South Gloucestershire.
Dyrham Park has a long history, but the current appearance of the Park, especially the house within it, can be attributed to William Blathwayt during 1691 to 1704.
William Blathwayt was an English diplomat, public official, and politician, who played an important part in administering the English colonies of North America. His wealth and connections created the house within this property, that showcases 17th century trends, and baroque architecture, making it one of the most notable stately homes of its time.
Once we parked our car, we had to walk for about 20 minutes down a long windy road to reach the house. The walk took us past large trees and shrubbery where we were able to read signs about some of the ages of the larger trees.
There is a shuttle bus that takes visitors to and from the house if needed.
Once we reached the bottom of the windy road, we saw our first glimpse of the house, which was really impressive.
However, at this point we didn’t know that this was just the East Front of the house, and that behind it was the even more impressive West Terrace, the main house entrance.
We walked behind the East Front section of the house where we saw a café, toilets, eating areas, and the entrance to the Conservation Studio, where team member’s care for the collections within the house.
As we walked through the archway that lead to the café, there was a small garden to the right, and then straight ahead was a large green area where some people set up their picnics.
To the right of the large green area we could see St Peter’s Church, which was immediately next to the entrance to the house.
In this area there were some hedges, which led to my favourite part of Dyrham Park, the Pool Gardens, some of the most gorgeous gardens I’ve ever seen at a National Trust property.
In the centre was a beautiful pond surrounded by landscaped gardens, cobblestone steps, seating, and stillness.
The photos really don’t do these gardens justice, and what made it even more stunning were the views of the house, pond, flowers, orchard, and cobblestone steps that you could see from whichever direction you looked.
Once we finished walking around we went inside the house, which was full of artwork and fine homewares.
Just outside the entrance were The Avenue and Sphynx Court, more stunning gardens.
Dyrham Park is currently undergoing a £10 million restoration project, so at some point they’ll be restored rooms, new exhibition areas, a tasting kitchen, new lighting, garden works, new walking routes, a tea room, and better play facilities.
We didn’t get a chance to see everything at Dyrham Park, like the Statue of Neptune, the natural play area, or the 270-acre deer park.
There were also many walks including The Journey of Discovery Trail, The Terraces Walk, and The Prospect Walk, as well as garden tours, and a behind the scenes house tour that we could add to our to do list when we come back.
After visiting Dyrham Park, I can now confirm that it’s one of my favourite National Trust properties, due to how breathtaking the gardens were.
I loved our day out at Dyrham Park, and would definitely like to revisit. The highlight for me was definitely the Pool Gardens, which is something that I’d like to see in all seasons to see how it changes.
Dyrham Park is located at Dyrham, near Bath, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8HY.
For more information on Dyrham Park please visit their website.
Related posts:
National Trust visits
6 great day trips in England
What are some of your favourite day out locations?
I’d love to hear about them in the comments section below.