Gay'S Cave And Diamond is a Grade II* listed building in the Wiltshire local planning authority area, England. First listed on 10 January 1953. Grotto.
Gay'S Cave And Diamond
- WRENN ID
- ruined-flue-saffron
- Grade
- II*
- Local Planning Authority
- Wiltshire
- Country
- England
- Date first listed
- 10 January 1953
- Type
- Grotto
- Source
- Historic England listing
Description
AMESBURY - SU 1541 11/3 Gay's Cave and Diamond 10.1.53
GV II* Grotto, late C18, perhaps by Flitcroft or Chambers. Limestone facade and lining to chalk cut cave set in cliff over River Avon, and below defences of Vespasian's camp (landscaped Iron Age hillfort). Spoil forms front apron with inclined paths forming the 'diamond' in plan and elevation. Facade set at end of short dromos, an arch with springing and keyblocks, and an open cornice, all mouldings partly 'overgrown' with uncut rock-faced stone. Iron gates with fan top. Interior has square cell with arch headed niches each side, and to rear, an arch to an apse. Groined vault. Settings in floor for features now missing. Probably the place used by John Gay to write 'The Beggar's Opera' and 'Polly' in seclusion during his long stay and patronage by the Duchess of Queensbury.
Listing NGR: SU1473741692
Detailed Attributes
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