Formal Steps And Approach To Bateman'S Study At Biddulph Grange

The formal steps and approach to Bateman's study at Biddulph Grange were built between 1848 and 1860 by John Bateman. These garden steps are made of dressed stone, featuring chamfered ashlar on the back panel with a vermiculated panel at the base. The structure consists of three tiers, five flights, and four landings, connecting the house to the lower garden level. The broad flights run in symmetrical opposing directions and are flanked by low ramped balustrades and squat, moulded, panelled end piers. The back panel serves as a retaining wall and includes a round-arch niche with a fretted balustrade above it, as well as a shallow circular stone vase on a plinth positioned in front of the recess. These steps lead to Bateman's personal study and likely represent the intended main pathway through his elaborately designed grounds, which also feature a Chinese Garden, avenues, and a pinetum.