![]()
HOME
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
P R O F I L E |
||||
![]() ![]() Waterfowl and Gardens Hambledon Road Godalming Surrey United Kingdom GU8 4AY Telephone: 01483 421955 The Douetil family moved into Busbridge Lakes in 1966 and since then have steadily improved the Old Stables house and 40 acre grounds as well as the antiquities. In spite of this, the pre-existing long term neglect of the estate has meant that there are still structures that need attention. These include the grotto and adjacent cave, both of which are not accessible to the public on open days. Over the years the bird wildlife on the lakes has been steadily enhanced and this is now a major feature of the gardens. ![]() Crossing the lakes bridge on the right from the access road to the house, the cave can be seen ![]() ![]() About 50 yards to the right of the cave is the grotto. This is on the lakeside and has a simi ![]() ![]() On the bank just above the cave and grotto is the eighteenth century Romano Doric Temple with two porticos making this a charming triplicate of antiquities approached from over the low rocaille bridge. ![]() The history of the gardens dates back to 1560 when The Old Hall, a timber building was constructed where the Middle Pond is now sited. ![]() Illustrations: ![]() 2. The Cave entrance 3. Guide Andrew shows the grotto entrance 4. The grotto interior 5. Mysterious arches adjacent to the grotto - could these be the access points to the lost tunnel leading to the cave? 6. The mansion demolished in 1906. Website: Click Here ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ![]() ![]()
GREAT BRITISH GROTTO GRADING
![]() FACILITIES Access by Road, Entry Fee, Grottoes - more than one, Restaurant/Food, Retail Souvenir Shop, Toilets LANDSCAPE Country town/village, Inland Water, Park or Garden REGION England - Southern THE FEATURES PRESENT +Dark and mysterious chambers and cave like spaces, +External rock structures, either real or simulated, +Internal stonework that is natural, recycled or simulated to give a subterranean decor, +Sacred spring or integral water feature, +Stunning setting and location, GRADED FIVE |
![]() |
|
|