Retaining wall, balustrade, steps and boathouse, Trentham Gardens

The retaining wall, balustrade, steps, and boathouse at Trentham Gardens were constructed between 1833 and 1842 as part of Charles Barry’s redesign of Trentham Hall and Gardens for the 2nd Duke of Sutherland.

The materials used for the wall and balustrade are limestone ashlar, although some of the urns and balusters have been replaced with concrete or Hollingworth stone. The wall encloses the southern end of the parterre garden, separating it from the lake to the south. It is a linear feature running east-west, with a central set of semi-circular steps leading down to the water. At the west end, there is a short return wall that runs north and includes a seat. At the east end, another return wall has a semi-circular projection that overlooks the entrance to the boathouse, which is set beneath the parterre terrace to the north-east.

The retaining wall is faced with rusticated ashlar. Above it, there is a vase balustrade with a moulded base and rail, featuring squat square pillars with fielded-panelled sides, topped with wide urns that were restored around 2004. Square piers with moulded caps are located at the angles of the walls. In the center of the wall, aligned with the north-south axis of the parterre garden, there is a break and a semi-circular projection with a set of wide, shallow steps leading down to the water’s edge. A statue of Perseus, which is listed at Grade II*, stands at this location.

At the eastern end, the balustrade leading north is interrupted by a semi-circular stone seat. To the north-east, there is a short section of walling built up to a higher level, which contains the opening to the boathouse. This opening features a wide segmental arch with a keystone and is fitted with metal gates.