Inside the house, you can learn about William Wiggett Chute and his family who lived at The Vyne in the mid-19th Century. Take in historic gems including a pre-Reformation chapel, Tudor oak gallery with 16th-century wood carvings and neo-classical staircase hall. Or immerse yourself in the Victorian chapter of The Vyne’s past by dressing up like Victorians in the Housekeeper’s Room.
Set in a scenic landscape, you can take some time out in sprawling gardens and woodlands. The ancient woodlands reveal traces of history if you know where to look. See if you can spot the remains of medieval fish ponds and a Second World War munitions storage site. For a chance to see wetland wildlife, you can visit the purpose-built bird hide.
For invigorating walks, you can hit the network of paths that run through Morgaston Woods. In spring, look out for a haze of bluebells in dappled sunlight. In autumn, you can stroll beneath a copper canopy and spot fungi flourishing beside the path. Overhead, squirrels sometimes dart about the branches and if you’re really quiet you might glimpse a deer wandering among the trees.
For seasonal blooms and historic landmarks, venture up the Lime Avenue to the Summerhouse Garden and take in the domed roof and Grecian-cross floorplan of the 17th-century summerhouse. Right next to this building, you’ll find a 600 year old oak tree, which has seen the likes of Henry VIII, Jane Austen and Second World War evacuees visiting The Vyne.
The walled garden is home to beaming daffodil borders in spring and burgeoning dahlias in late summer alongside other horticultural delights. Just off the Lime Avenue, The Vyne’s orchard features delicate blossoms in spring and ripening fruit such as apples and mulberries in autumn.
If you’re looking for a spot of refreshment, try the cosy Brewhouse tea-room that serves light refreshments and hot and cold beverages. Or if a picnic is more your thing, the best spot is the north lawn by the wide lake and overlooked by The Vyne’s grand portico. Just next to the tea garden, in a former coach house, our shop has highlights from National Trust ranges alongside locally sourced goods.
Intrepid explorers can try their hand at den building, orienteering and geocaching in the grounds or family trails around the house. A stone’s throw from the tea-room, a play area suitable for ages ten and under can be found behind the shop. And very small visitors might prefer the play area off the Lime Avenue.
You can take a look at our site map to help you plan your visit.
