Last Updated on 12/03/2023
You can be sure that a visit to a National Trust property will never leave you disappointed. And that is especially true for this beautiful house, gardens and park in Gloucestershire, England. Here is your guide to the top things to do at Dyrham Park on your next visit!
In this guide, you will find a full list of things to do at Dyrham Park in Gloucestershire. You will also find helpful tips and tricks you need to know before you visit.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Find out more here.
About Dyrham Park
Dyrham Park is a late 17th-century country house and gardens set in a 270-acre deer park. For over 50 years, it has been owned and maintained by the National Trust.
There is currently a huge project underway to reimagine the park as it was when the house was originally built. A visit to Dyrham Park is an opportunity to explore what life was like for the wealthy of the late 1600s and get a glimpse into the Blathwayt family, who called Dyrham Park their home.
Even with work underway, a visit to this Gloucestershire treasure is a fascinating trip. From strolling through the park to unearthing the hidden gems in the house, Dyrham Park is a must-see National Trust site.
Where is Dyrham Park?
Dyrham Park is on the edge of the village of Dyrham in South Gloucestershire, England. It is about 10 miles north of Bath, 15 miles east of Bristol or 15 miles west of Chippenham.
When was Dyrham Park Built?
The house at Dyrham Park today was built in the late 17th century by William Blathwayt. Work on the house first started in 1691. Dyrham Park is a beautiful example of baroque architecture.
Dyrham Park Opening Hours
The park, car park, kiosk and gardens at Dyrham Park are open from 10am until 5pm seven days a week. The shop is open from 11am until 5pm. The house and tearoom are currently open part-time.
Check the Dyrham Park opening hours before you travel. You will find the most up to date times here.
Getting To Dyrham Park
If you’re planning a visit, here are the easiest ways of getting to Dyrham Park.
By car: Road travel is the easiest way to get to Dyrham Park. It is conveniently located less than 30 minutes from Bath, Bristol, and Chippenham, so it is a wonderful day trip from many popular destinations in the southwest.
By public transport: there is no direct public transport to Dyrham Park. To travel by public transport, the easiest option would be to get a train to Bath. From here, a taxi ride is approximately 20 minutes.
Dyrham Park National Trust
Dyrham Park is owned and maintained by the National Trust and its army of volunteers.
If you have a National Trust membership, it is free to park and enter Dyrham Park house, gardens, and grounds. Being a National Trust member gives you free access to all the National Trust sites across the UK for a 12-month period. If you’d like to learn more about a National Trust membership, you’ll find more information here.
Things to do at Dyrham Park
To get the most out of your visit, here at the top things to do at Dyrham Park that you don’t want to miss!
Grab A Dyrham Park Map
When you first enter Dyrham park, be sure to pick up a map. They are available from the ticket booth in the car park. The Dyrham Park map is handy because it has all the walks and gardens mapped out so you can rest assured, you’re not going to miss anything.
Enjoy The Dyrham Park Walks
The deer park at Dyrham spans 270 acres. To make sure you see the best of what it has to offer on your visit, your map has highlighted three pleasant walks to enjoy. Depending on the length of your stay, you can complete them all, or choose your preferred ones.
The Dyrham Park walks include:
- Journey of Discovery Trail – a woodland walk through the south side of the park. Approximately 40 minutes one way.
- Terraces Walk – a 30 minute (one way) walk to the terraces of the 17th-century garden.
- Prospect Walk – a trail that skirts the edge of the park and offers panoramic views over the Severn Valley.
Admire Dyrham Park House
Dyrham Park House is a magnificent sight to behold. You can admire the facade from numerous viewpoints throughout the park. Or get up close to admire the specific details.
Inside the house, you can get a taste of the 17th century and learn more about William Blathwayt, the man who commissioned the build. The house includes a beautiful collection of furniture, art and more. Please note that the house is currently open part-time, so make sure to check the opening times before your visit.
See the Statue of Neptune
Perched on a hill overlooking the house you’ll find a statue of Neptune. Standing watch over the house, Neptune’s trident is long gone, but he looks as impressive without it. If you climb to admire the statue, you will also be rewarded with stunning views of the house.
Visit St Peter’s Church
St Peter’s Church is the oldest building at Dyrham Park. It dates to around the mid-13th century. Services still take place in the church today and visitors are invited to join them if you wish to do so.
Explore the Dyrham Park Gardens
One of the top things to do at Dyrham Park on your visit is to explore the beautiful gardens. The gardens at Dyrham Park are sprawling and varied, so you will want to spend plenty of time admiring them. Here is an overview of the gardens at Dyrham Park.
The Avenue
The Avenue is a grand expanse of garden leading up to the house. The current design is a modern interpretation of the garden designed by William Blathwayt in the late 1600s. It is made up of a sweeping path and vibrant borders that lead up to the house. It would certainly have created a grand impression for anyone entering the house from this direction!
Sphynx Court
When excavation work took place in the courtyard between the house and the Avenue, an engraved base of a Sphynx statue was discovered. Unfortunately, the Sphynx itself no longer remains, but the name has stuck!
Pool Gardens
The pool gardens are a relaxing space for you to sit and unwind. It is a popular place to find visitors resting on the grass.
This area is made up of two pools, a small one with a cascading water feature, and a larger pond. Enjoy the relaxing sounds of running water from the cascade or take a pleasant stroll around the larger pool. The pool gardens are a luscious and zen place.
Walk the Terraces
The 17th-century meandering terraces were lost to nature until recent years. Thanks to significant donations and an army of volunteers, the National Trust has been able to reclaim this important part of Dyrham Park’s history. You can take a stroll through the woodland terrace as it zig-zags back and forth, while you enjoy impressive views of the house and gardens.
Nichols’ Orchard
Nichols’ Orchard or the perry orchard is a pear orchard. During early summer you will find a vibrant sea of wildflowers. Later in the year, it makes the ideal spot for a picnic. Specific picnic patches have been mown, so please don’t stray from the grass paths.
Get a bite to eat at the Dyrham Park Cafe
If you’re feeling peckish on your visit, Dyrham Park has a kiosk serving food, plus a part-time tearoom. You can pick up a selection of hot and cold drinks, light snacks, ice creams, sandwiches, and cakes to enjoy in the gardens.
Spot the Dyrham Park Cat
When you visit Dyrham Park, keep your eyes peeled for a four-legged, furry tour guide! The resident ginger cat, Monty, often likes to patrol the grounds and supervise visitors. Just keep a close eye on your food though, he has a reputation for pinching unattended snacks!
Where To Stay Near Dyrham Park
There are many wonderful places to visit near Dyrham Park. If you want to get the most out of your visit, why not stay in the area for a weekend or week-long break?
Here are some great accommodation options for your stay.
Booking.comThings To Do Near Dyrham Park
If you are planning a visit to Dyrham Park and you want to explore more of the local area, here are some other great guides to check out:
- Self Guided Bath Walking Tour (12 Places Not To Miss!)
- Things To Do In Castle Combe, Wiltshire
- Things To Do In Malmesbury, Wiltshire: An Essential Guide For Visitors
Before You Go
So, if you are visiting Dyrham Park, be sure to bookmark this page or pin it using the pin below so you can visit these top sights on your trip!
Have you visited Dyrham Park? I’d love to hear about your visit! Let’s connect on Instagram and send me a DM telling me your favourite part of your visit!
Until our next adventure,
Related Articles
P.S. Love it? Pin it!
If you like this guide to Dyrham Park, be sure to follow Get Lost on Pinterest. That’s where I’ll be sharing all my great UK travel guides.
Hello, I’m Hannah! I’m a writer and photographer who loves experiencing the wonders of Yorkshire. My guides will help you escape from your daily routine by showing you that you don’t have to go far to find an adventure.
Wow, I would love to visit this Baroque estate. Would particularly enjoy walking through the mansions and seeing the interior and furniture and conveniences they had at that time. Wonderful that it is located close to Bath and Bristol which are also on my “visit list” for when I get to England.
I’m keen to go back and explore the interior as sadly it was closed during our visit due to Covid restrictions. But it is a great excuse to go back! I loved Bath on our visit but haven’t been to Bristol. I’d love to explore more of this part of the UK. I hope you get an opportunity to visit soon!
What a thorough guide! Thanks so much for sharing! I have saved this for me next visit 😀
I’m so glad you found the guide useful! Thanks for reading!
Hi Hannah! What a neat article with details for how to visit Dyrham Park in Gloucestershire. I always love reading your blog and seeing all the green spaces in the UK. Hitting the cafe and walking around sounds like the perfect morning activity. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Ashlee! We’re lucky to have so many beautiful green spaces in the UK! It was lovely strolling through the grounds and gardens of Dyrham Park. Thanks for reading!
Thanks for introducing Dyrham Park to me. It looks like a lovely spot to visit if we are in the Gloucestershire area. I do love when the interior of historic properties like this are open to the public. And so many great spots to walk around the grounds. I will certainly be on the lookout for Monty.
Monty is very friendly so he often pops by to say hello to visitors! Just hold onto your lunch, he’s a food thief! Dyrham Park is a beautiful place! I’m keen to return as sadly the interior was shut when we visited due to Covid restrictions. What a great excuse to return!
Wow, this looks like such a beautiful place to explore!! I would love to visit when Covid ends!
It is a lovely place for a day out! I hope you have an opportunity to visit soon!
great tips! Do you recommend anywhere to eat near the park for lunch?
Hi Lennea! The cafe at Dyrham Park is a lovely place to get some lunch to eat in the gardens. Alternatively, we got afternoon tea from The Little Picnic Shop (check out my Castle Combe post for details) and took it with us to Dyrham park to enjoy on our visit! I can strongly recommend the afternoon tea!
The grounds of Dyrham Park are beautiful and so big! I’d enjoy taking a walk on the wooded Journey of Discovery Trail, the Avenue and the Pear Orchard! It looks like the perfect spot for a picnic and maybe a snack for Monty too!
It is a beautiful place to walk and explore. I love following the different trails and exploring the gardens! Haha you need to keep an eye on Monty, we saw him help himself to someone’s lunch! He seems undeterred by his ‘do not feed’ collar!
What a beautiful looking place, a great one to add to my next UK adventure. And anywhere that has an animal mascot gets my vote. I’ll definitely be on the lookout for the kitty
It is a lovely place! We had a great day out! Just keep a close eye on your lunch if you spot the kitty, he is a bit of a food thief!
Another beautiful NT site to add to my list. I really like this area of England, and still have many places on my list I want to see, so when I return I’ll definitely visit Dyrham Park too.
I agree! This was the first time we had visited the area and it is so beautiful! I’d love to go back too and see more of it. I hope you have an opportunity to visit Dyrham Park soon!
The National Trust has so many amazing properties. It’s definitely worth exploring these parts of the UK while foreign travel is still difficult
I agree! We asked for National Trust memberships as a present this year because we aren’t planning any international travel and we’ve had so much use from it! They have so many beautiful places to explore!
Wow, this is why I love National Trust! They have such amazing properties that you can spend all day exploring. Thank you for sharing – will definitely keep this in mind for when we are in the area 🙂
Ah me too! They have some of the most beautiful properties! I love exploring them! I hope you get an opportunity to explore Dyrham Park!
What a beautiful park! I would love to visit Dyrham park and explore its gardens, terraces and orchards. At the end I would like a nice cup of English tea at the cafe. Your images look lovely. Bookmarking your blog. 🙂
I’m so glad you like the guide! It is a beautiful place to explore. A cup of tea sounds like the perfect way to wrap up your visit!
This place looks like a dream! Just added it to my England bucket list!
It is a beautiful spot! I hope you have an opportunity to visit soon!
What a beautiful place! I think that the statue of Neptune seems like a beautiful place to meditate with all of those views! Thank you for this inspiration!
The statue of Neptune was my favourite spot! It was a beautiful sunny day and we sat up there overlooking the house and it was so relaxing! Thanks for reading!
This is gorgeous! I can’t wait to visit as soon as I get to England! I’m saving this for later!
Isn’t it a beautiful spot? It’s well worth a visit when you are in the area!
What a picturesque spot! I could definitely use some of this Dyrham air!
It is a beautiful place. Definitely a great place to get some fresh air and clear you head!
I always love your guides to the UK. I lived there for a year but after reading your articles I feel like I need to go back and try again cause I missed so much!
Aww thanks Nina! There’s just so much to see here, even after almost 30 years I’m still finding so many wonderful places to explore!
This looks like a lovely time! I would especially want to relax at the Pool Gardens! Thank you so much for sharing 🙂
The Pool Gardens were beautiful, it was a popular spot for people relaxing. Thanks for reading!
Dyrham Park looks like one of the Pride & Prejudice Mansions! The Avenue is a particularly stunning set of gardens! Would love to visit them and grab a bite to eat at the Dyrham Park cafe.
Doesn’t it just! I loved strolling along The Avenue, it definitely felt like a scene from an Austen novel! If you grab something to eat, just keep an eye out for the cat, we saw him pinch someone’s lunch!
Dyrham Park looks like a great place to spend the day soaking up the sunshine! I am a sucker for beautiful gardens and views 🙂
Ah I completely agree! I can’t resist a beautiful garden! Dyrham Park is a lovely place that is well worth exploring!
That’s a lovely guide to Dyrham Park. I would love to visit it one day. Bookmarking it.
I’m so glad you like the guide! I hope you get a chance to visit soon!
Wow I’m a National Trust Member but have never seen this property before, adding it to my list to visit in England for sure!
Ah National Trust memberships are the best, aren’t they? I love discovering new properties to explore! I hope you get an opportunity to visit soon!
I love this part of the UK. I can almost see Mark Darcy walking toward me from the house!
Ah that’s so true! It is a beautiful part of the country, isn’t it? I’d love to go back and explore more of it!
I love the look of the historic house in the middle of the park! I don’t know too many places in this part of England, but hopefully I’ll be able to travel down there soon and explore the area!
I didn’t know much about the area either to be honest! It was my first visit to the area and we found loads to do! It is very close to Bath, Castle Combe and we also enjoyed a visit to the town of Malmesbury. If I go back I’d definitely visit Stonehenge and maybe go as far as Wells. I hope you get an opportunity to explore the area soon!
Would love to walk through Dyrham Park and you are so right, one won’t be disappointed visiting a National Trust site. Thanks for showing us this beautiful place.
National Trust sites always feel like such special places, don’t they? Dyrham Park is so beautiful, it’s lovely to stroll through the grounds. I hope you get an opportunity to visit!
I loved learning more about the park from your post–it’d be awesome to get to visit here someday, especially the walks/gardens (+ I wanna find the cat!)!
Dyrham Park is such a beautiful place! And the cat is adorable! We spotted him running away with someone’s lunch! I don’t think his ‘do not feed’ collar makes much difference as he seems to just help himself!
Gosh, Dyrham Park looks so charming! I’d love to visit that beautiful house!
It is a stunning place! I want to go back to see inside of the house as it was shut due to covid restrictions when we visited. The outside was stunning though so I can only imagine the inside is the same!
I’ve visited Dyrham Park before and it’s a great place for a walk! Your photos look great, I definitely want to go back there soon.
It’s a lovely place, isn’t it? I’m keen to go back as the house was shut due to lockdown restrictions when we visited. The grounds and gardens were lovely though, it was such a lovely day out! I hope you get a chance to go back!
What a beautiful park! I lived in England before and I have never visited Dyrham park, what a shame! I will need to visit it during my next trip. Thanks for sharing so many details.
We were lucky and sort of stumbled across Dyrham Park and I’m so glad that we did! I hope you get an opportunity to come back and explore it soon!
This looks gorgeous, and so empty! I would love to visit here too.
It is a beautiful spot! There were quite a few people exploring the grounds when we were out but unfortunately the house was closed due to Covid restrictions at the time so that many have reduced the number of visitors. It certainly didn’t feel crowded though and everyone was maintaining space for social distancing. That likely helped with the photos!