Retaining Walls And Steps Surrounding The Site Of The Great Conservatory

The retaining walls and steps surrounding the site of the Great Conservatory, located in Chatsworth Gardens, were built between 1836 and 1840 by Joseph Paxton. These structures are made of coursed squared sandstone and ashlar, forming a large rectangular area with low retaining walls topped with flat copings. At the corners, there are diagonal flights of stone steps that feature two landings, square piers, and plain square caps, along with some supporting urns. At the north end, there is a pedestrian bridge over a pathway, which has a rusticated round arch with a plain impost band, as well as coping and a plain parapet with ball finials. The walls curve and are adorned with urn finials, and there are steps leading up on either side of the bridge. The Gardens and Park are recognized on the Gardens Register at Grade I.