Gazebo In South West Corner Of Kings School Garden

The gazebo located in the southwest corner of the grounds of King's School, formerly the garden of the Bishop's Palace, dates from the early to mid 18th century and was built for Bishop Benson, who served from 1734 to 1752. Designed in a classical style, it was originally situated further north near the west side of the cathedral precinct wall but was rebuilt in 1988 at its current location after part of the precinct wall collapsed. The structure features dressed and carved stonework, with 20th-century or reused brick in the side and rear walls, and a lead roof.

This small, rectangular building has an open front framed by two fluted Roman Ionic columns, with an entablature and pediment above. The entablature extends along the top of the brick side and rear walls, featuring a pulvinated frieze carved with laurel leaves at each corner. The tympanum of the pediment on the east side displays a central shield carved with the arms of Bishop Benson, surrounded by a rococo frame and flanked by cornucopia spilling fruit in bold relief. The rear pediment has a plain tympanum. Inside, the gazebo has rendered walls and ceiling, with a stone slab floor. It is also designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument.