// Gardening
Bristol and beyond. Unfortunately over time, these were hidden from view as they became overgrown and neglected. In 2001, clearing began and work is now ongoing to re-instate Mr Blathwayt’s lost terraces – so prepare to walk in his footsteps along the Abor Terrace or Long Terrace – a woodland walk that is already full of atmosphere and only set to get better over the next 10-15 years.
Back on level ground and the areas directly in-front of the main house are also being developed in order to recreate parts of the original vision, although it’s true to say that they are already pretty eye-catching and on a crisp sunny day, a delight in which to dawdle.
The Avenue consists of 8 long borders arranged like toasted soldiers, 4 across times 2 with a central path. Formal in style and simply stunning with yew clipped into balls and cones and white posts throughout where honeysuckle and jasmine await their turn to blossom in 2018. At the end stand Blathwayt’s gates – the original entrance to the house.
Turn a corner and it’s not hard to see the influence of the great Dutch gardens, as parts of the original formal water gardens tantalisingly trickle around you, the vast Lower Pool reflecting the same tree branches and building stone that the gentry of centuries past would have gazed upon. Meanwhile an ancient mulberry tree stands undisturbed (apart from the soil below,
cleared to make way for fresh planting), its branches contentedly weighed down with the pleasant passing of time.
Fruit is in fact very evident at Dyrham Park, from standard gooseberries to figs to the Nut Walk and Perry Orchard. Grow your own really was a case of show your own in Blathwayt’s day when so much in a garden was to impress and highlight your wealth. Status was also apparent in the number of beautiful trees on site and the 270 acre deer park certainly displays many handsome specimens. These include a number of tulip trees (Liriodendron) that were sent to Blathwayt as seeds. (Folklore alert: they say the leaves of this tree are shaped with the end point missing as this was the leaf that Eve grabbed hold of when being banished from Eden.) Keep your eyes peeled for another gorgeous specimen too, the fallow deer that roam the grounds – waiting to salute Father Christmas and his herd as they pass by later this month.
Talking of the great man himself, where some attractions are closing their doors for the season, Dyrham is raising its voice with Christmas cheer and a host of seasonal offerings. From decoration making to a Frost Fayre and The Lord of Misrule Trail – where you can search out 20 mischievous elf like creatures, this really is a festive family fandango - one that I would highly recommend. In fact, this was a garden so good, that we actually got locked in being so absorbed and failing to realise the time. If you do venture forth, make sure you leave before closing, there are stockings to be hung!
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