Choice of two FREE guided-tours of splendid Downhill Estate's Walled Garden and Mausoleum
Two exciting, FREE guided walks around Downhill have been organised by the North Coast Association in conjunction with local National Trust personnel.
The simultaneous walks around Downhill - the first of which is easy on the feet and the second slightly more challenging – are free of charge, though participants are invited to make a donation to the National Trust.
These will take place simultaneously, each commencing at 10.15am on Tuesday, July 21.
The shorter of the two will feature a detailed exploration of the Walled Garden in which participants are invited to join gardener Una Quinn to discover how the walled garden was a key part of the Earl Bishop’s Demesne.
Spend time learning about the greenhouses and vegetable patches that once dominated the site. Hear about the Walled Garden today and the work undertaken by volunteer gardeners to help nature thrive. This will be a short, easy walk around of around 45-60 minutes.
Simultaneously, a member of National Trust staff will lead participants on an alternative exploration of the Demesne.
The longer walk of the two commences at the Lion's Gate, a late 18th century construction topped with not lions but heraldic beasts. Proceeding from there up the gentle slope to the Mausoleum, erected by the Earl Bishop in memory of his brother the Second Earl of Bristol.
The building was designed by architect Michael Shanahan and based on a Roman prototype in France. It is an elaborately-tiered structure culminating in a cupola and statue. Very sadly, the top section was blown down in 1839 during the ‘Night Of The Big Wind’.
From here, the guided walk continues to the Bishop's Gate, again a late 18th century neoclassical structure. To the east stands a Gate Lodge, now used as a holiday-let. From here, it's a return walk to the Lion's Gate once again.
Book a place on either walk by calling Philip Tilling on 078 575 15521. Only assistance dogs are permitted on each of the walks.