Dyrham Park - Dutch art in the English countryside by pedersdottir
A house-within-a-house. The dining hall and old reception room display the 17th century Tudor heart of this manor, originally built in the Dutch style. The exterior is a Baroque overlay covering the many extensions that were added between 1692 and 1704. Over 300 years of history are reflected in the furnishings. The collections of Delftware and fine Dutch paintings draw many visitors. Others come to stroll the gardens or to picnic on the grounds. Personally, I enjoyed the amazing complex of kitchens and dairy which led directly to the Courtyard Tearoom - and a welcome break from what seemed like miles of stairwells! For souvenir hunters there is a National Trust gift shop on the premises. The park grounds are open all year from 11:00 am to dusk. The manor house and garden may be viewed from March to October, Fridays to Tuesdays only, from noon to 5:00 pm. Admissions range from L 4.10 for children to L 8.30 for adults. Dyrham Park is 8 miles north of Bath with bus service departing from the Manvers St. bus station. (The station info desk will provide schedules and fares). NOTE: From the Park entrance it is a hilly walk of 10-15 minutes (occasionally past herds of deer and cattle!) to reach the manor and the tearoom. Allow adequate time for your return walk to the bus stop.
