Ann Boleyn'S Seat At The Surprise View

Ann Boleyn's Seat at the Surprise View is a shelter located in Studley Park, likely built before 1790, with rebuilding in the 19th century and restoration in the 20th century. It was commissioned by William Aislabie. The west front features three slender Gothic arches supported by quatrefoil columns and has an elaborate crenellated parapet, along with a single-pitch roof. The rear has a narrow entrance with renewed woodwork and a crenellated parapet. The left and right sides are solid and restored. Inside, there is a concrete floor and plinths for columns. Originally described as a 'sashed Gothic temple', there was a seat at the Surprise View in 1790, and an arched shelter is depicted in an engraving from 1828. The site is associated with Ann Boleyn due to a large headless statue erected nearby in the 18th century. This statue, which is an armless and headless female figure in classical drapery and originally over 3 meters tall, is now located in the sacristy at the base of Huby's Tower at Fountains Abbey.