We started our visit with a leisurely stroll through the expansive grounds. The first thing that strikes you is the sheer scale of the place. Rolling hills, ancient trees, and that incredible feeling of open space. We wandered along the paths, taking in the fresh air and the stunning views. And then, there they were – a few deer that had broken away from the main herd. the deer! They were just grazing peacefully in the distance. It was such a magnificent sight, and we spent a good few minutes just watching them go about their business.
As we continued our walk, the magnificent Dyrham House started to come into view. Nestled amongst the trees, it looks absolutely splendid from a distance, giving you a real sense of its grandeur. We made our way towards it, admiring the classic architecture and imagining what life must have been like here centuries ago.
Inside, we learned more about the vision behind the estate. The grand house is a stunning example of English Baroque architecture, built between 1692 and 1704 for its owner, William Blathwayt. He was a hugely ambitious and well-connected civil servant, and it was his fortune, amassed through powerful government roles and lucrative interests in the American colonies, that funded this stunning home. Blathwayt’s close ties to the Dutch King, William III, are clear to see throughout the house, from the collections of Delftware to the elegant architecture.
But the house is only half the story. It's incredible to think that the park once looked completely different, boasting one of the most elaborate water gardens in the country. Imagine a great cascade with 224 steps, water dramatically tumbling down the escarpment towards the house – a true spectacle of its time that has, sadly, long since vanished.
After exploring, we ventured inside the house itself. There's a brilliant exhibition that delves into the building's history, and you get a real sense of the stories held within those walls. The man responsive for the development of Dryham was William Blathwayt, a hugely ambitious and well-connected civil servant in the late 17th century. It was his fortune, amassed through powerful government roles and lucrative interests in the American colonies, that funded the creation of this stunning home. Blathwayt’s close ties to the Dutch King, William III, are clear to see throughout the house, from the collections of Delftware to the clean, elegant lines of the architecture, which feel very European.Although the interior is now rather barren and empty, it doesn't take much imagination to mentally step back into the heyday of this stately home.
All in all, Dyrham Park is a fantastic day out. Whether you’re keen on history, love a good walk, or just want to enjoy some beautiful scenery and spot some wildlife, you won’t be disappointed. We came away feeling refreshed and having learned a lot – definitely one to stop off at if you're ever passing. 
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