France is famous for its stunning châteaux and idyllic rural estates, like the Château d’Ussé in the Loire Valley, believed to have inspired Charles Perrault’s Sleeping Beauty. But you don’t need to cross the Channel to experience a fairy tale setting. Tyntesfield, a magnificent Victorian Gothic Revival mansion, awaits you in North Somerset, nestled within 540 acres of heritage parkland, ancient woodlands, and orchards.
With its turreted architecture reminiscent of a storybook French château, Tyntesfield offers a magical escape. Inside, the grand library features thousands of books, a charming bay window, and a cozy fireplace. The entrance hall impresses visitors with its soaring 43-foot oak lantern ceiling, while the boudoir shines with intricately carved boxwood paneling decorated with roses, strawberries, and pineapples.
The estate even boasts a stunning chapel inspired by the gothic Sainte Chapelle in Paris, linked to the main house by an elegant bridge. Beyond the mansion, families can enjoy three children’s play areas and a woodland den-building village.
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Enhance your visit with a stroll through the orangery and productive kitchen garden before relaxing with coffee and cake at the Home Farm Café, located in the Grade II listed Victorian Dairy.
How to Visit Tyntesfield for Free
Normally, admission to Tyntesfield costs £21 for adults and £10.50 for children. However, during National Lottery Open Week from March 7 to 14, entry is free for all visitors who show a physical or electronic National Lottery ticket from any date. This special offer grants access to hundreds of National Trust sites nationwide at no cost or reduced prices, making it the perfect time to discover this enchanting Somerset treasure.