Witley Court Before the Garden Restoration

The restoration of Witley Court’s gardens by English Heritage, a charitable organization responsible for preserving historic sites, began in the Summer of 2002. It has been an ongoing process, with continuous maintenance and improvement to preserve the estate’s historic character and original beauty. If you have wondered what Witley Court looked like before the garden restoration, here are some pictures I took in Easter 2002 before work started. They convey a sense of abandonment and loss, showcasing the contrast between their magnificent state today.

Witley Court is a magnificent ruined country house located in Worcestershire, England. English Heritage acquired the estate in the 1970s.

Built for the Foley family in the 17th century, the house underwent significant expansions and renovations in the 19th century. Once one of the great houses of England, it was known for its opulence and grandeur.

Witley Court Garden’s Before the Restoration

Witley Court once boasted extensive gardens and grounds that complemented the house’s grandeur. The garden’s design was in various styles, including formal parterres, terraces, and naturalistic landscapes. Witley Court’s gardens before the restoration showed vague reminders on the ground of the once beautiful Victorian gardens. And a lack of human presence evoked a sense of abandonment and loss.

The Perseus and Andromeda Fountain at Witley Court

One of the most notable features of the original gardens was the iconic Perseus and Andromeda fountain, which was the centrepiece of the estate. This elaborate fountain depicts the mythological story of Perseus rescuing Andromeda from a sea monster. The fountain was adorned with beautifully sculpted figures and surrounded by ornamental flower beds.

In addition to the grand fountain, the gardens also featured sweeping lawns, picturesque lakes, and a variety of exotic trees and shrubs. The landscape’s design was careful to provide stunning vistas and a sense of tranquillity for the inhabitants of Witley Court.

Unfortunately, in 1937, a devastating fire broke out in the house, reducing it to ruin. The fire also caused significant damage to the surrounding gardens and structures. The estate remained neglected for many years until English Heritage acquired it.

Since then, English Heritage has restored and revived the gardens at Witley Court. The aim was to recreate the original design and atmosphere of the gardens, drawing on historical records, photographs, and other available resources. The restoration work included replanting flower beds, restoring pathways and structures, and reviving the magnificent fountain of Perseus and Andromeda.

Today, visitors to Witley Court can experience the garden’s beauty and admire the architectural remnants of the once-magnificent house. The estate provides a glimpse into the past, offering a fascinating combination of historical ruins and carefully crafted garden landscapes.