Gatepiers At Entrance To Forecourt Of Bramham Park With Attached Retaining Wall

The gatepiers at the entrance to the forecourt of Bramham Park, along with the attached retaining wall, date from the early 18th century. They are constructed from magnesian limestone ashlar and coursed rubble. The entrance features a double set of gatepiers, with gates at the outer entrance flanked by a pair of sphinxes mounted on rectangular pedestals. These sphinxes are connected by low walls that are L-shaped in plan, leading to a set-back pair of massive clustered piers. These piers have pilasters on all four sides and detached columns on three sides, all adorned with vermiculated bands. They feature a joined-up entablature and a prominent cornice, with each pier topped by an heraldic beast displaying a shield and facing towards the house. The straight retaining wall, made of rubble with a rounded coping, extends from the outer side of the piers across the full width of the forecourt.