Stourhead: Historic grotto closed for repair work

The grotto at Stourhead is next to the lake and has suffered 'drainage issues' over the past few years

Restoration work on an 18th century grotto at a National Trust property is currently under way.

The Stourhead estate, which is on the Somerset and Wiltshire border, said "essential repair and restoration work" is needed to replace the floor in the grotto.

The Grade I listed building, which was built in 1748, will be closed to the public until 2 September.

A National Trust spokesperson said: "Two areas of the floor collapsed in late 2022 and we need to carry out some careful archaeological research to understand sub-structure of this historic building."

The 18th century grotto looks out on the famous lake at Stourhead

Stourhead House and Gardens, which is owned by the National Trust, is one of the South West's most visited trust properties.

Modelled on the pantheon in Rome, by architect Henry Flitcroft in the 18th century, the lake was carefully placed in the landscape along with 20 other buildings and structures.

Damage first appeared in the grade I grotto two years ago which was be caused by "blocked drains underneath the floor from the lake".

The Stourhead House and Gardens estate is owned by the National Trust

The National Trust spokesperson continued: "We apologise for any inconvenience but we are carefully lifting each pebble in the affected area to access the under-floor drains.

"Bespoke lead boxes are being crafted to sit inside the brick and slate drains that run under the floor and these will ensure debris won’t get caught, creating blockages and flooding.

"The floor will be carefully replaced using a special mortar that will need time to set and fully cure to future proof the building."

The rest of the National Trust site at Stourhead, including the house and gardens, remain open during the summer.