Fountain In Princess Gardens

The fountain in Princess Gardens, located in Torquay, was built around 1894, coinciding with the development of the pleasure grounds. It is made of cast iron and stone and features a three-tier design that discharges water into a round pool. The pool has a moulded edge adorned with stylised foliage. The base of the fountain is tripartite, featuring spouting dolphins that are ridden by children blowing trumpets. A central moulded column showcases relief scenes of countryside life, including squirrels and birds. The scalloped basin on top is supported by decorated iron brackets, while storks embellish the column that holds the upper basin, which is topped with a seated infant holding a crowning basin resembling a parasol. Historically, the fountain was a gift from H Young of the Torbay and Cumper's Hotels, provided at a cost of about £150, with the condition that the local corporation would supply a suitable basin for it. It is a charming piece of public park furniture and follows a design produced by the Saracen Foundry in Glasgow.