The story
Charles Hamilton created Painshill between the 1730s and 1770s. He designed it as a series of scenes, with follies, a lake and carefully planted trees, so that visitors moved from one view to another as if walking through a painting. Hamilton spent so much on the garden that he went into debt and had to sell it.
By the twentieth century, the garden was overgrown. The Painshill Park Trust has restored it, and it is now open to the public.
What to look for
- The Crystal Grotto, lined with crystals.
- The Gothic Temple and Turkish Tent.
- The Chinese Bridge and lake.
- The waterwheel.
Why it's worth seeking out
Painshill is one of the most complete examples of an eighteenth-century landscape garden designed as a sequence of scenes. As you walk around the lake, the view changes from a Gothic temple to a Chinese bridge, a ruined abbey and a Turkish tent, each designed to suggest a different mood or place. The restoration has been carried out with great care, using historic plant lists to replant the garden as Hamilton might have known it. It has won awards for its conservation work and is a fascinating visit for garden lovers.
Combine it with
Claremont Landscape Garden is a short drive away, as are Cobham and Esher.
Visiting tips
The Crystal Grotto has limited opening times, so check before you visit. Allow at least half a day. Paths can be steep.
Getting there
Cobham & Stoke d'Abernon station is a short drive away. With Mason & Green, we can combine Painshill and Claremont in one day.
Frequently asked questions
Who created Painshill?
Charles Hamilton, in the eighteenth century.
Can you go inside the Crystal Grotto?
Yes, at certain times. Check before visiting.
How long should I spend at Painshill?
At least half a day.