Chinese Temple

The Chinese Temple is a Grade II* garden ornament built in 1772 by Sir William Chambers for the Duchess of Queensbury. It is constructed from Chilmark stone and features knapped flint outlining zig-zag and chain patterns, topped with a slate roof. The temple has a square cella that straddles a leet from the River Avon, supported by a single wide arch. Surrounding the structure is a timber verandah with a lean-to roof and a balustrade featuring a Chinese pattern. Each face of the temple has a gabled section that extends out on two sides to create a canopy over the steps. The entrance includes a perron stair with handrails and a timber door set within a moulded stone doorcase, featuring brass vents. There are large oval windows on either side, equipped with timber grilles and interior shutters. The temple underwent extensive and well-executed restoration in 1986-1987 and is now set within a newly designed Chinese-style garden. The interior boasts a domed ceiling. The temple holds group value as part of the landscape designed by Henry Flitcroft between 1726 and 1730, and Charles Bridgeman from 1730 to 1738, with further additions made during the 18th century.