Grotto And Rockery Approximately 40 Metres South Of Temple Of Flora

The grotto and rockery, located approximately 40 meters south of the Temple of Flora in Nuneham Park, were built around 1771, with the rockery likely extended in the early 19th century. Constructed from limestone and composition boulders, along with some brick, the exterior resembles a rocky cliff. It features a central entrance that leads into the grotto, a ravine to the right that ends in a tunnel, and an extensive rockery to the left, which can be accessed by a narrow serpentine flight of stone steps. Adjacent to the grotto entrance is a small marble plaque inscribed with a quote from Milton. Inside, the grotto has a saucer dome made of rough stonework, while the tunnel is vaulted with brick. Originally, the grotto was larger and included a hand-operated cascade. This structure was part of an innovative flower garden designed by the Reverend William Mason, who authored "The English Flower Garden," for Lord Nuneham, later known as the 2nd Earl Harcourt.