Terrace Retaining Walls Steps And Gates To South And East Of Burton Closes

The terrace retaining walls, steps, and gates located to the south and east of Burton Closes in Bakewell date from the mid to late 19th century. They were likely originally designed by Joseph Paxton for William Allcard, with possible extensions as the house was enlarged. The walls are made of deeply-coursed dressed sandstone, featuring ashlar copings and steps, along with iron gates. The L-shaped retaining wall measures approximately 60 meters along the south front and 45 meters along the east front. The south section is low and has moulded copings, with three openings leading to stone steps that descend to a lower terrace. At the west end, there is a ramped side wall. The terrace projects forward at the southeast corner, where the retaining wall continues north and ends at a broad flight of 19 steps, which also have ramped side walls. An iron side gate is located at the bottom of the steps, while a balustrade with ten Tudor-arched openings closes the north end of the terrace. A short section of wall at the north end of the house concludes with a flight of steps that features a pair of Gothic Revival gates.