Retaining Wall Of Terrace To Garden Front Of Somerleyton Hall

The retaining wall of the terrace along the garden front of Somerleyton Hall dates from around 1846 and was designed by John Thomas for Sir Morton Peto. It is constructed of stone and features raised rectangular panels with vermiculated rustication. The wall includes three flights of steps leading down to the formal gardens, aligned with the central and end bays of the house. At the base of the steps, there are low piers topped with urns. The wall curves forward at each end, with each curve ending in a reclining female figure in marble, representing Night on the south side and Day on the north side; both figures are signed 'John Thomas London'. Flanking the central steps are elegant antique bronze vases with dragon handles and intricate relief patterns, which were originally part of a bench feature within the garden walling to the south of the house. This retaining wall is part of a garden that is listed in the HBMC County Register of Gardens at Grade II*.