Dyrham Park |
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The impressive baroque mansion of Dyrham Hall was principally developed by William Blathwayt. He married Mary Wynter in 1686 and on the death of her father began work on the neglected Tudor manor house and estate which she had inherited.
Over the next ten years as the Blathwayts poured investment into the house, it was gradually extended and enhanced. A new west wing with glorious views towards Bristol was added, then the east wing and finally the extensive orangery were added.
The house was further enhanced by magnificent formal gardens. The grand façade was created by architect and landscape designer William Talman, Sir Christopher Wren's right-hand man, which shows how far the Blathwayt family had risen in importance.
Blathwayt became Secretary
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Visitors can see the beautiful tulip detail on the door hinges and locks in the Balcony Room and there is a fine collection of traditional blue and white Delftware scattered throughout the house.
Art lovers will also appreciate the works of Dutch artists including the perspective painting of a Dutch interior by Hoogstraeten. Eighteenth century antique furnishings on show include furniture by Gillow and Linnell.
Once the initial work was completed, Dyrham Hall received almost no further attention until the mid 19th century.
Unfortunately the family did not have the finances to alter or even maintain the property until Colonel Blathwayt inherited the house in 1844. He took out a crippling loan to make essential repairs and to buy
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One benefit of such little investment has ensured the survival of the domestic quarters just as they were, giving present day visitors a wonderful insight into life "in service".
Some redecorations were carried out by the tenant, Lady Islington, between 1938 and 1946. Unfortunately the upkeep became too much for the family to consider and Dyrham Hall was given to the National Trust in 1954.
Although the grounds no longer have the formal gardens, terraces and water features of the original era, the established beech and cedar groves which cover some 110 hectares (272 acres) make a pleasant place to stroll along the park trails.
The National Trust shop offers a superb selection of interesting items including plant sales and produce made using local venison and perry pears. There is also a tea garden with a snack kiosk.
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Opening Times
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(2011 times)
House* 19th February - 28th June: 11.00am - 5.00pm Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 1st July - 30th August: 11.00am - 5.00pm Daily 2nd September - 30th October: 11.00am - 5.00pm Monday and Tuesday and Friday - Sunday 5th November - 18th December: 11.00am - 4.00pm Satureay and Sunday. Garden, Shop and Tea-rooms 19th February - 28th June 10.00am - 5.00pm Monday and Tuesday and Friday - Sunday 1stJuly - 30th August: 10.00am - 5.00pm Daily 2nd September - 30th October: 10.00am - 5.00pm Monday and Tuesday and Friday - Sunday 5th November - 38th December: Park** 1st January - 18th February: 11.00am - 5.00pm Daily 19th February - 31st December: 10.00am - 5.00pm Daily Please Note: Open Bank Holiday Mondays and Good Friday. Last admission one hour before closing. *Limited offer in the house 19 February to 11 March, Wednesdays and Thursdays in July and August and 5 November to 18 December. **Park closed 25 December. Whole property closed until 1 on 7 and 14 September, 9 and 23 November and 7 December for park maintenance. |
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Admission Charges
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(2011 prices)
Gift Aid Admission (Standard Admission prices in brackets):House Park and Garden: Adult £11.55 (£10.50), Child £6.00 (£5.45), Family £28.90 (£26.25). Garden and Park: Adult £4.65 (£4.20), Child £2.35 (£2.10), Family £10.30 (£9.35). Park only: Adult £2.90 (£2.60), Child £1.70 (£1.54), Family £6.60 (£6.o0) |
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Directions
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By Bus special link from Queen's Square, ½ mile Bath Spa (0117 937 2501 for times) Cycling Avon and Wiltshire cycleways View local cycle routes on the National Cycle Network website By road 8 miles north of Bath, 12 miles east of Bristol; approached from Bath-Stroud road (A46), 2 miles south of Tormarton interchange with M4, exit 18. By train Bath Spa 8 miles On foot Cotswold Way passes property Ordnance survey reference 172:ST743757 |
| Show map of Dyrham Park... |
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Dyrham Park Postcode for SatNav: SN14 8ER |
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