Visit a Victorian Gothic house and estate
Tyntesfielsd, Wraxall, Somerset
The house near Wraxall in North Somerset is built of two types of Bath Stone, and is bristling with turrets and topped with a gorgeous elaborate roof.
The Gibbs family, who bought the Tyntesfield house in 1843, built their large fortune on the trade of guano; a fertiliser made from South American sea bird droppings. Four generations of Gibbs lived in the house collecting a treasure trove of over 50,000 objects, ranging from fine works of art and furnishings, to touching items of domestic life, which give a fascinating insight into the world of the English gentry in the Victorian and Edwardian eras.
When the last family member to live in the house died in 2001 it was bought for the nation. The garden and estate feature flower filled terraces, woodland, ancient trees and a kitchen garden.
The Old Cow Barn has been converted into a delightful restaurant and there is an excellent programme of events throughout the year to suit all ages, from behind-the-scenes tours to living history, to woodland adventures and magical outdoor theatre and music.