The Athelhampton gardens are full of variety, the formal architecture is balanced by woodland scenes. The formal gardens were built between 1891-1899 by Alfred Cart de Lafontaine. The Great Court, with its striking Pyramid shaped yew trees is our most famous of gardens. Originally planted to punctuate the corners of planted rose beds, the trees now dominate. Beyond the Great Court, the Corona, the Private Garden, the Canal, and Octagonal Pond lead you through the gardens to the River Piddle which forms a natural boundary. The river walk takes you through natural areas, and around toward the ancient dovecote. Read more…