Georgian garden reopens T
he landscape around one of Bristol’s oldest estates has been refurbished and opened to the public once again. Imposing Clifton Hill House, restored in 2004 and now a University hall of residence, was built in 1750 by renowned architect Sir Isaac Ware, who was also thought to be a supporter of the 18th Century landscape garden movement, whose arch exponent was Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.
Landscaper Nicola Greaves has remodelled the garden in a traditional Georgian ‘goose foot’ (patte d’oie) layout, based on the records of the garden shown in maps of Clifton from the time. Features, such as a wildflower meadow, woodland walk and a wildlife pond, have been constructed. An intriguing folly, known as a ‘turret’, has also been restored. The garden will be open on specific days through the year. l For open days visit www.bristol.ac.uk.