Work is currently underway on essential repair and restoration for an 18th-century Grotto at the historic National Trust property of Stourhead House and Gardens in Wiltshire. The Grotto, built in 1748 for Henry Hoare II, known as Henry the Magnificent, has been closed to the public to replace the floor. This closure is necessary due to damage caused by years of water flowing from the plunge pool inside the Grotto into the lake, wearing away the grouting on the brick-lined drainage channel.
The Grotto at Stourhead is a significant feature of the property, attracting more than 370,000 visitors annually, making it Wiltshire’s third most visited National Trust property. The recent closure of the Grotto on August 5 is to facilitate the repairs, which are expected to be completed by Monday, September 2. Tim Parker, Head Gardener at Stourhead, emphasized the importance of these repairs in ensuring the long-term preservation of the Grotto for future generations to enjoy.
In late 2022, a section of the Grade I listed Grotto floor collapsed, leading to restricted access for safety reasons. Since then, specialist teams have conducted investigative archaeological research to understand the sub-structure and drainage of the Grotto building. An environmentally friendly dye was used to track the flow of water from the new channel beneath the floor out into the lake, providing valuable insights for the repair process.
Stonemasons carefully lifted the pebbles of the Grotto floor, revealing the under-floor drains for further examination. Archaeological recording was conducted to inform future repair works, ensuring that the Grotto’s structural integrity is maintained. A new grout will be prepared and applied to the brick-lined channel, reinforcing it for years to come. The pebbles will then be reinstated using a special mortar that requires time to set and fully cure.
Despite the closure of the Grotto, the rest of Stourhead House and Gardens will remain open to visitors during the summer months. The National Trust is committed to preserving and protecting this historic property, ensuring that it continues to be a popular destination for visitors seeking to explore its rich heritage and natural beauty. The ongoing repair and restoration work at the Grotto exemplifies the Trust’s dedication to maintaining the integrity of its properties for the enjoyment of present and future generations.