Ford Over River Skell Approximately 150 Metres South-East Of The Outlet From The Lake

The ford over the River Skell, located approximately 150 metres south-east of the outlet from the lake, was built around 1740 for John Aislabie. Constructed from gritstone, it is approximately 3 metres wide and features large setts flanked by curbs. This ford is one of six that cross the river between the lake and Chinese Wood, providing access for a carriage drive linked to the rustic bridges in the Seven Bridges Walk. This element of John Aislabie's garden design contrasts with the more formal ponds and temples located upstream. It is contemporary with the serpentine streams that flow through the woods, which were inspired by Chinese and Roman designs by William Kent and others. The ford exemplifies Aislabie's early implementation of new landscape theories at Studley Royal.