Tyntesfield House: A Victorian Gothic Revival Masterpiece
Explore Tyntesfield, a Victorian Gothic Revival mansion near Bristol, rich in history, stunning architecture, and expansive gardens.
Tyntesfield House is a spectacular Victorian Gothic Revival mansion near Bristol, England, renowned for its ornate architecture, rich history, and extensive gardens. Purchased by the National Trust in 2002, this Grade I listed estate features over 70,000 objects from four generations of the Gibbs family, reflecting their Anglo-Catholic faith and wealth from the guano trade. Visitors can explore the lavish interiors, a private chapel inspired by Sainte Chapelle, and surrounding parkland and kitchen gardens.
A brief summary to Tyntesfield House
- 64 Stable Yd, Bristol, Tyntesfield, Wraxall, BS48 1NS, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit the private chapel inspired by Sainte Chapelle for exquisite Gothic architecture and mosaics.
- Explore the kitchen garden to see seasonal fruits and vegetables grown in a historic setting.
- Allow time to browse the extensive collection of family heirlooms and Victorian artifacts inside the house.
- Enjoy a meal or snack at the café located in the Victorian Dairy building near the entrance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From Bristol Temple Meads station, take a local bus towards Wraxall, approximately 45-60 minutes travel time. Buses run regularly but check schedules in advance. A combined train and bus ticket costs around £8-£12 GBP.
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Car
Driving from Bristol city center takes about 25-30 minutes via A370. Parking is available on-site but can be limited during peak times. There is no charge for parking at Tyntesfield.
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Taxi
A taxi from Bristol city center to Tyntesfield typically takes 25-30 minutes and costs approximately £25-£35 GBP. This option offers direct and flexible travel but is more expensive than public transport.
Tyntesfield House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Tyntesfield House
A Legacy of Wealth and Faith
Tyntesfield House stands as a testament to Victorian Gothic Revival architecture and the legacy of William Gibbs, who acquired the estate in 1843. Gibbs, a merchant who amassed his fortune through the guano trade, transformed the original Georgian house into a grand neo-Gothic mansion beginning in 1863. His devout Anglo-Catholic beliefs deeply influenced the design, with the house embodying ecclesiastical motifs such as pinnacles, crenelated towers, and oriel windows. The estate became a symbol of both faith and prosperity, reflecting the Oxford Movement’s ideals.Architectural Grandeur and Artistic Detail
Designed by architect John Norton and decorated by J.G. Crace, Tyntesfield is renowned for its richly detailed interiors and exterior. The house features soaring stone carvings, stained glass windows, mosaics, and ornate ironwork, all crafted with meticulous attention to Gothic Revival style. The private chapel, completed in 1875 and inspired by the Sainte Chapelle in Paris, boasts a flamboyant Gothic design with intricate mosaics and brass chandeliers. The building materials, including Bath stone and Cotswold limestone, were carefully matched to preserve architectural continuity.A House Preserved Through Generations
Four generations of the Gibbs family lived at Tyntesfield, accumulating a vast collection of over 72,000 objects ranging from fine art and furnishings to everyday items like picnic sets and ice skates. The house remained a family home until 2001, when the last heir passed away. The National Trust acquired the property in 2002 after a successful fundraising campaign to prevent its sale to private interests. Since then, extensive conservation work has stabilized and restored the house, allowing visitors to experience its authentic Victorian character.Gardens, Estate, and Natural Beauty
Surrounding the house are 540 acres of historic parkland, woodlands, and gardens. The kitchen garden remains productive, showcasing seasonal fruits and vegetables, while the formal gardens and historic Orangery offer picturesque settings for exploration. The estate’s diverse landscapes include flower-filled terraces, an empty lake, and champion trees, providing tranquil walks and nature escapes. Play areas and woodland dens nearby make the estate family-friendly.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors to Tyntesfield can enjoy a café housed in the Victorian Dairy, a well-stocked shop offering local produce and National Trust items, and informative displays about the estate’s history. The house is open daily from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm, with guided tours revealing the stories behind the architecture and collections. Seasonal events, such as festive fairs, add to the estate’s vibrant atmosphere, making it a year-round destination.Conservation and Cultural Significance
Tyntesfield is one of the most important Victorian country houses preserved in England, recognized for its architectural and historical significance. The National Trust’s ongoing conservation efforts protect not only the physical fabric of the house but also the extensive collection of objects that tell the story of Victorian life and the Gibbs family’s influence. The estate exemplifies the balance between heritage preservation and public engagement, offering insight into 19th-century society and design.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Lookout Lectern
6.1 km
Historic vantage point with sweeping views of Brunel's iconic bridge and Bristol's storied past.
William Draper Memorial
6.5 km
Explore Britain’s oldest war memorial, honoring 18th-century soldiers on scenic Clifton Down in historic Bristol.
Memorial Arch
6.7 km
A solemn Grade II listed arch honoring Clifton College’s fallen heroes of the World Wars, blending history, tradition, and architectural grace.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
7.7 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Statue of Cary Grant
7.7 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
The Matthew of Bristol
7.8 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
Statue of Queen Victoria
7.9 km
A majestic marble tribute to Queen Victoria on Bristol’s College Green, blending history, art, and royal heritage in the city’s heart.
Bristol Aquarium
7.9 km
Discover the enchanting underwater world at Bristol Aquarium, where marine life thrives in captivating exhibits and interactive experiences for all ages.
M Shed
7.9 km
Explore Bristol's maritime past at M Shed, a vibrant museum with engaging exhibits, a delightful cafe, and a unique gift shop on the waterfront.
The Red Lodge Museum
7.9 km
Explore The Red Lodge Museum, a historical landmark in Bristol, showcasing exquisite period rooms and captivating exhibitions that illuminate the city's rich heritage.
Watershed
7.9 km
Experience Bristol's vibrant arts scene at Watershed, where cinema, food, and culture come together in a breathtaking riverside setting.
Pero's Bridge
7.9 km
A striking pedestrian bridge honoring an enslaved man's memory and Bristol's complex past with the slave trade.
Bristol Harbour Railway
8.0 km
Experience the historic charm of Bristol Harbour Railway, a heritage railway offering scenic rides through Bristol's vibrant docks and maritime history.
Cascade Steps
8.0 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Prince Street Bridge
8.0 km
A working Victorian swing bridge over Bristol’s Floating Harbour, connecting the city centre with the Cumberland Road area and offering quiet views of boats and quays.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tyntesfield
1.0 km
Explore Tyntesfield’s Victorian Gothic Revival mansion, lush gardens, and family-friendly estate just outside Bristol.
Arts Mansion
5.1 km
Historic Ashton Court Estate near Bristol blends centuries of architecture with 850 acres of scenic parkland and vibrant cultural events.
National Trust - Leigh Woods
5.5 km
Explore ancient woodland and breathtaking Avon Gorge views at Leigh Woods, a serene nature reserve near Bristol with trails for all abilities.
Clifton Suspension Bridge Visitor Centre (Free Entry)
5.8 km
Explore the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge’s history and engineering at the free Visitor Centre with interactive exhibits and guided tours.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
6.0 km
Iconic Victorian suspension bridge spanning the Avon Gorge with stunning views, free museum, and engaging guided tours in Bristol.
Giant's Cave
6.1 km
Descend into legend and emerge with views of Bristol's most iconic bridge from an unforgettable angle.
St Vincent's Rocks
6.1 km
Historic cliffside landmark in Clifton offering dramatic views, ancient caves, and rich cultural heritage above the Avon Gorge.
Clifton Observatory
6.2 km
Historic observatory with one of the UK’s few working Camera Obscuras, Giant’s Cave adventure, and stunning views of Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Butt polished rock
6.2 km
Discover the subtle geological wonder of Butt Polished Rock nestled in Bristol’s historic and scenic Clifton district.
The Paragon
6.2 km
Discover the charm of The Paragon in Bristol, a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity for every traveler.
Sea Walls
6.3 km
Iconic Victorian suspension bridge spanning Avon Gorge with breathtaking views and rich engineering heritage in Bristol.
Ashton Gate Stadium
6.3 km
Historic and modern, Ashton Gate Stadium is Bristol’s vibrant heart for football, rugby, concerts, and major events with a capacity of 27,000+.
The Mall Gardens
6.4 km
A serene and charming green oasis nestled in Clifton, offering peaceful gardens framed by historic architecture and community spirit.
Clifton Down
6.5 km
Expansive green parkland offering stunning views, wildlife habitats, and peaceful recreation in the heart of Bristol.
The Clifton Arcade
6.7 km
Discover Victorian splendour and indie treasures in Bristol's Clifton Arcade, where over 20 unique boutiques offer vintage finds, art, and artisanal gifts in a charming covered passage.
Essential places to dine
Côte Clifton Village
6.5 km
Classic French brasserie charm meets modern dining in the heart of Bristol’s Clifton Village.
Giggling Squid - Clifton
6.5 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and vibrant dining in the heart of Clifton Village at Giggling Squid, Bristol’s beloved Thai restaurant.
The Chef's Table
6.5 km
An intimate fine dining experience in Bristol’s historic docks, serving innovative modern British cuisine with expert wine pairings.
The Ivy Clifton Brasserie
6.5 km
Elegant British brasserie in Clifton, Bristol, blending local heritage with refined dining and vibrant afternoon teas.
New Moon Tapas
6.5 km
A stylish tapas spot in Bristol’s Clifton Village blending global flavours with inclusive, creative small plates and vibrant cocktails.
Clifton Sausage
6.5 km
Experience expertly crafted British sausages and seasonal local dishes in the warm, inviting heart of Bristol’s Clifton Village.
The Pump House
6.5 km
Historic waterfront gastropub in Bristol’s Hotwells, blending heritage architecture with fine British dining and scenic harbour views.
No.4 Clifton Village
6.6 km
Charming Georgian hotel in Bristol’s Clifton Village with cozy rooms, a private garden, and the acclaimed No.4 Clifton Village restaurant.
Coppa Club, Clifton
6.7 km
Stylish Italian dining and vibrant social hub in Clifton Village, Bristol, perfect for all-day meals and lively evenings.
Souk Kitchen
6.8 km
Experience vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean mezze dishes in a lively Southville setting, perfect for sharing and savoring bold flavours.
1 York Place
7.0 km
An intimate European bistro in Clifton offering seasonal dishes and a warm, stylish atmosphere for a refined dining experience.
Racks Bar & Kitchen
7.3 km
A vibrant Clifton hotspot blending historic cellar charm with gourmet British and Mediterranean cuisine in a lively, stylish setting.
Lost & Found Bristol
7.4 km
Theatrical cocktails and creative cuisine in Clifton's most Instagram-worthy venue.
COR Restaurant
7.4 km
Vibrant Mediterranean small plates served in a stylish, intimate setting at Bedminster’s acclaimed COR Restaurant.
The Coconut Tree Bristol, Clifton Triangle
7.4 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan tapas and tropical cocktails in Bristol’s lively Clifton Triangle, where bold flavours meet colourful charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Grace & Mabel Ltd
6.5 km
Discover handpicked elegance at Grace & Mabel Ltd, the Clifton Village boutique where three sisters craft a world of timeless fashion, quality, and personal style since 2007.
Movement Boutique
6.5 km
Discover curated designer fashion, jewellery, and homewares in the stylish heart of Clifton, Bristol’s charming historic district.
Indira Rose Vintage
6.5 km
Discover mid-century magic across three floors in Clifton's chic village—timeless antiques and vintage furniture await in Bristol's premier trove.
The Pod Company
6.5 km
Discover cutting-edge wellness with The Pod Company’s innovative ice baths and sauna pods in the heart of Clifton, Bristol.
About Face
6.5 km
Discover curated gifts and artisanal treasures in Clifton's charming village heart, where unique finds meet personal service in a cozy Bristol gem.
Mint Velvet Bristol
6.6 km
Discover relaxed glamour and personalized style at Mint Velvet Bristol, a chic ladies' boutique in Clifton's fashionable Regent Street.
Village
6.7 km
A compact, design-led gift shop in Clifton Village offering locally made homewares, stationery and small-batch finds with a quietly curated, neighbourhood feel.
Bristol General Store
7.1 km
Independent boutique celebrating local creativity and curated global design in Bedminster.
Ashwell & Co
7.2 km
Retro elegance meets homemade indulgence: vintage treasures and legendary scones in Clifton's cozy tearoom.
Independent Design Collective
7.4 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and crafts from Bristol’s vibrant local artists at Independent Design Collective in Southville.
Rhubarb Jumble
7.5 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique home treasures in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Southville neighborhood.
The Bristol Artisan
7.5 km
Discover Bristol’s curated home for handmade, sustainable gifts and homewares crafted by over 80 independent makers.
Inca
7.5 km
Discover artisanal wonders and unique souvenirs in the heart of Bristol's chic Clifton Down, where bohemian charm meets everyday elegance.
Clifton Down Shopping Centre
7.5 km
Bristol's Clifton hub: supermarkets, shops, coffee, and convenience right by the station on leafy Whiteladies Road.
Zhyper
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Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
3.1 km
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The Coronation Tap
6.4 km
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The Siren's Calling
6.5 km
A lively waterfront pub in Portishead Marina offering exceptional craft beers, live music, and stunning marina views in a friendly community setting.
22 Clifton
6.5 km
A vaulted Clifton wine cellar mixing Georgian bones with a modern wine-bar programme, tastings and sharing plates in an intimate setting.
The Quadrant
6.6 km
Cosy Clifton wine bar with a curated drinks list, small plates and buzzy window seats in the heart of the village.
The Dirty Bird
6.6 km
A vibrant neon-lit cocktail lounge in Clifton Village, Bristol, mixing classic and creative drinks with a lively, intimate atmosphere.
The Cottage Inn, Bristol
6.7 km
Historic harbourside pub offering modern British classics, craft ales, and scenic waterfront vibes in the heart of Bristol.
The Last Word Clifton Village Bristol
6.7 km
Quirky Clifton cocktail haven spanning three cozy floors, perfect for masterful mixes and intimate evenings in Bristol's upscale village.
Barrelhouse
7.0 km
Clifton's hybrid pub where Detroit pizzas, rooftop views, live tunes, and dive-bar cocktails create unrestrained fun in a historic setting.
The Eldon House
7.2 km
Historic Victorian pub in Clifton, Bristol, known for craft beers, live music, and a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.
Bag of Nails
7.3 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
The Brass Pig
7.4 km
Clifton's two-floor nightlife gem: cocktails from £3.50, DJ weekends, terrace vibes, and student deals in Bristol's Triangle hub.
The Cocktail Club - Triangle Bristol
7.4 km
Step into Bristol’s Neverland-inspired Cocktail Club for expertly crafted drinks, quirky décor, and nights that never want to end.
Steam
7.4 km
Bristol's premier beer hall in a historic station, serving craft brews, bottomless brunches, and pizzas on a festival terrace amid Clifton's charm.
Hyde & Co
7.4 km
Discover Bristol’s secretive speakeasy with expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy vintage ambiance in the heart of Clifton.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
La Rocca
7.4 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
7.4 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
Lizard Lounge
7.4 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
Bristol Lola Lo
7.4 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
7.7 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Antix
7.7 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
Silk Nightclub
7.7 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
OMG
7.7 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
7.8 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Basement 45
7.8 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
PRYZM
7.9 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Popworld - Bristol
8.1 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
8.1 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Thekla
8.2 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Lakota
8.8 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
