The South West of England is littered with interesting archaeological and historical sites, not least the spectacular Victorian Gothic Revival house and gardens at Tyntesfield, which is only a short drive the neighbouring city of Bristol. Though you might not think to look at it, the house was initially built simply to serve as a family home, hidden away from prying eyes it is now filled with the ordinary and extraordinary lives and possessions from four generations of the Gibbs family.

In visiting the estate you will discover an intriguing tale surrounding the accumulation of wealth from the guano trade and the transformation of an ordinary Georgian house to a Victorian masterpiece filled with more than 50,000 objects. Each season guests can explore a different take on Tyntesfield with changing perspectives reflected through the family estate.

There is a balanced beauty between the gothic carvings on the grand house and abundance of nature that fills the surrounding parkland, with adjoining woodland, lake and terrace just waiting to be explored. There is also plenty for younger generations to explore amid the Somerset countryside, with a sculpture trail and several play areas offered alongside a packed activity programme which includes an open air theatre, food and craft markets, as well as a productive garden kitchen.

If you’re keen to pause for refreshment then The Cow Barn offers homemade dishes, made freshly with ingredients grown from the estate, with light bites also available from the Pavilion Café. For those with pets, dogs are welcomed in specified areas, provided they’re kept on a lead. Tyntesfield Estate provides an ideal space from which to escape the bustling city, with appeal to all ages.