Summary : Appuldurcombe Park was created as part of Appuldurcombe House built by the Worsley family between 1701-13. It was landscaped by Capability Brown for Sir Richard Worsley in 1779 and comprises of open parkland planted with scattered trees and woodland covering an area of around 100 hectares. A number of features were created as part of these landscaped grounds including a ha ha and fountains, built during the 1830s. There were also two gatehouses; one built in 1840 and the other, Freemantle Lodge Gateway, built in the late 19th century. Other features, some of which have not survived included A Gothic eye-catcher, obelisks and an ice-house and a feature known as "Cook's Castle". |
More information : [Name SZ 54087967] Appuldurcombe Park[NAT] (1)
Remnant of C18 landscape park, at most extensive c.100ha, now in divided use and ownership. Three lodges with approach drives including Freemantle Lodge (derelict), with Ionic archway and gates, c.1780. Garden activity uncertain before late C18, when Sir Richard Worsley `landscaped' the park. Capability brown was called in 1779. Details of his work uncertain. Appuldurcombe house was in the centre of the estate. There is woodland to south-west, and some belts of trees along parts of southern and eastern boundaries. There are clumps of trees in open parkland. There are a number of garden features created when Sir Richard Worsley 'landscaped' the park. These included an obelisk (1774) which was struck by lightning 1831, Capability Brown subsequently produced a plan for 'alterations of the Place'. Sections of this later landscaped garden area survive including: the park wall remains (south-west, north-west, north and north-east boundaries of estate), a Gothic eye-catcher, 'Cook's Castle', an Ice-house, C18, a Ha-ha and a circular basin with central fountain (1830s). For a full description please refer to the Parks and Gardens register. (2)
Please refer to these sources for additional information. (3-7)
There are three garden buildings or features that remain of Appuldurcombe park landscaped by Capability Brown: the Icehouse, Obelisk and Freemantle Lodge. The icehouse is an earth mound with a stone rubble revetment wall. It consists of a covered brick chamber and stone vaulted entrance passage. Only the plinth of the obelisk remains after it was struck by lightning in 1831. The 70ft obelisk was erected by Sir Richard Worsley in memory of his uncle Sir Robert Worsley. The late 18th century lodge was altered in the 19th century. It consists of squared rubble walls, a slate roof, red brick chimney and originally had two rooms, one storey with attics created in the 19th century. For fuller descriptions please refer to the Listed Building System. (8)
This source includes a detailed description of both the house and garden. (9)
The English Heritage guidebook to Appuldurcombe House includes plans and descriptions of the landscaped parks and gardens. (10) |