Upper Cascade Including Statues Of Venus And Swans In Venus' Vale

The Upper Cascade, including the statues of Venus and Swans in Venus' Vale, is a notable feature located in Rousham Park Gardens. It was constructed between 1738 and 1740 by the architect William Kent. The cascade is made of coursed and dressed limestone, showcasing rock-faced rustication. It has a pedimented shape with an arch leading to the cascade, which is topped by a lead statue of Venus and flanked by lead swans on moulded drums. The keystone of the arch features a marble memorial stone dedicated to Ringwood, described as "an otter of extraordinary sagacity" and "Tyrant of the Cherwell's Flood." This structure is part of the landscape gardens designed by William Kent around 1733 to 1740. Rousham Park is recognized in the Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission Register of Parks and Gardens at Grade I.