Japanese Steps and Shinto Arch

The Japanese steps and Shinto arch, dating from around 1870 and the late 19th century, are located on Calthorpe Road. The steps are likely part of the landscape design by S S Teulon for Lord Calthorpe, with the Japanese lanterns and Shinto arch added later in the century. The structure features three sets of stone steps, each with chamfered stone pedestals at the corners. The lowest set includes taller square stock brick piers at the base, topped with a moulded stone cornice and large terracotta urns. The other pedestals support stone Japanese lanterns, which are probably from the late 19th century. At the top of the lowest flight of steps stands a late 19th-century Shinto arch, made of two cylindrical wooden columns supporting two horizontal squared posts, with the upper post curving upwards at the ends and connected by a vertical squared post. These steps are part of a series of garden structures at Woodlands Vale, primarily designed by S S Teulon for Lord Calthorpe, showcasing the later 19th-century Japanese influence on garden design.