Rousham House And Gardens
An English Garden ( and house )…… here are some images from Rousham garden in Oxfordshire…. A part of our ‘Middle England Garden tour next year’….. another gorgeous place to visit, if you’re a solo traveller or part of a small group…. Definitely a ‘don’t miss’.
The house was built in the 1630 and completed after the English Civil War, but it took another 70 years or so before the gardens were laid out by Charles Bridgeman, in what was called a ‘naturalistic’ style.
Eventually an evolution within the gardens took place in the 1730s. William Kent was brought in to add a touch of opulence and classicism… and a little humour to the estate.
His garden extends past the expected classical temples, follies and statuary of dying gladiators, a horse being savaged by a lion and others depicting similar themes. Paths lead through woods where the abundant water from the River Cherwell is fully utilised: small rills lead to larger ponds and formal pools. The classical statuary of Roman gods and mythological creatures are skilfully positioned to catch the eye as one progresses from a cascade to the cold bath and on to the next temple or arcade, each set in its own valley or glade, a succession of picturesque tableaux. The statues on display today are by Peter Scheemakers.
These gardens are a joy !!!
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