The Parks Trust begin to revive Great Linford Manor Park
We're excited to announce that from the 5th October 2020, landscaping works will be commencing at Great Linford Manor Park as we implement our National Lottery Heritage Fund project to 'Reveal, Revive and Restore' the historic landscape and upgrade public facilities.
We have been awarded £3.1m by the National Lottery Heritage Fund to 'Reveal, Revive and Restore' the Manor Park, which has a history that can be traced back to the Saxon times. Many of the park's historic features date to the 17th and 18th centuries when the park was created to provide the setting for the impressive Manor house (a private property). With our funding we are restoring elements of the 18th century English Landscape Garden that was laid out by historic owners of the Manor. Now that the Development stage of the project is complete, we have contracted landscapers Ground Control to deliver the park's masterplan. The plan is available to view here. It was designed by Jon Sheaff & Associates, who are behind the restoration of The Royal Parks' Greenwich Park in London, with input from The Parks Trust and Landscape Architect Rebecca Hiorns.
One of the most significant areas for restoration are the Water Gardens or ponds. In February we removed some self-seeded trees from around the ponds which were blocking light, dropping leaf debris into the water reducing the flow and degrading the pond wall structure. In this next stage we will be making the natural spring that feeds the ponds more visible, creating new paths around the ponds and restoring the cascade between them.
^The Water Gardens with trees removed, February 2020.
We will also be restoring and interpreting the Doric Seat, a little-known 18th century folly that was destroyed in the 1970s and excavated by archaeologists last year. Across the park signage will be improved, providing information about the restored heritage features, and new paths will provide better access for all visitors.
Throughout the works the park will remain open to the public, but from time-to-time some areas will be cordoned off to be worked on. Please check the Manor Park webpage for details ahead of your visit. Our exciting events and activities programme will continue as normal*. Keep up to date via our website and social media channels. For more project information, click here to sign up to receive our Great Linford Manor Park newsletter.
^Heritage Open Day event at the Manor Park
* All activities are risk-assessed and follow government guidance for COVID-19 social distancing. Some activities may be postponed or become virtual / self-led as required by the guidance at the time.
