This much-photographed garden is not vast in size, but the range of views that it offers makes it appear larger than it is. It was designed by banker Henry Hoare and created between 1741 and 1780. Hoare went to the trouble of damming the river Stour to make the lake, which is central to the garden's layout. Classical influences abound in the shape of the many monuments contained within the garden, such as the Pantheon the obelisk and Temple of Apollo.
The Pantheon is the largest and most important of the garden buildings. It was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome and was used for picnics and supper parties.
The Obelisk erected by Henry Hoare the Magnificent in 1743 was replaced in 1839 after being damaged by lightning.
The Palladium Bridge seems to serve the village of Stourton but is purely ornamental.
Another attraction is King Alfred's tower. This folly was built by Henry Flitcroft in 1772, and, at nearly 50m high, it gives some lovely views of the estate. It is said to be the site where King Alfred raised his standard in AD 879.
The Grotto was an essential aspect of an 18th century landscape garden. The one at Stourhead is grander than most, incorporating a statue of a sleeping nymph and a cold bath in which Henry the Magnificent enjoyed bathing during the summer months.
The Bristol High Cross used to stand at the junction of High Street and Broad Street in Bristol. It was removed in 1763 after being called a 'ruinous and superstitious relic', and was erected in the village or Stourton. The village and St Peter's church were part of the original living village and incorporated into the garden design.
Fans of stately homes may also be interested in seeing the house that is classically influenced and contains some excellent paintings as well as furniture by the younger Chippendale. Telephone (01747 841152)
Pages within this site of things to do in Wiltshire
Things to do in Wiltshire - Bradford on Avon, Castle Combe, Devizes, Cotswold Water Park, Kennet & Avon Canal, Lacock Abbey, Malmesbury, Salisbury, Cathedral, Savernake, Stonehenge, Marlborough, Salisbury Plain, Stonehenge & Avebury, Stourhead, Swindon, Warminster, White Horses, Longleat
