Restoration Project - The Projects

The following are main components of the restoration project:

The Arethusa 'Diana' Fountain
This magnificent 17th century fountain was the centrepiece of Sir Christopher Wren's grand approach to Hampton Court Palace. The design is in part attributed to Inigo Jones and is referred to locally as the 'Diana' Fountain. The fountain is actually believed to represent the Goddess's nymph, Arethusa, but there is still much debate to be had upon what is its most appropriate name. Recognised by English Heritage as one of the most important groups of sculpture in Britain, the fountain is adorned by a unique collection of bronzes by French royal sculptor Hubert Le Sueur. Work on the fountain will repair the stonework, pipework and the bronze statuary and ultimately bring the fountain back into full operation.

The Woodland Gardens
These beautiful landscaped gardens are of a traditional 20th century design and include the Waterhouse Plantation (16ha) and the Pheasantry Plantation (12ha). Project work will focus particularly on the Pheasantry and will also restore many areas of the Gardens with the subtle development of individual features such as an amphitheatre and a wildlife habitat wood. We will also address much of the infrastructure including fencing, gates, paths and water courses, as well as the plant and tree life itself.

The Brewhouse
This charming early 18th century building once provided ale for all the workers on the estate and is a rare example of its type in London. This is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, on the English Heritage 'At Risk' Register. Our plans will restore its structure, open it up to public access and create an unusual venue for occasional exhibitions and visits.

The Stockyard Buildings
Also 18th century, these buildings were once the farmyard buildings for the estate. Work will involve adapting some of them for further use by the Education Team as well as volunteers.

New Visitor Facilities at Broom Clumps
This is the one major piece of new works proposed for the Park which will provide a much needed facility for visitors including a Tea Pavilion, toilets, as well as a satellite site for the education and community team. Whilst of a contemporary design, the building will be sensitive to the Park's historic landscape.

Interpretation & Signage
This aspect of the Project will make a great difference in improving access. It will also help visitors find their way around the Park and discover all that Bushy Park has to offer.

Infrastructure Repairs
This area of work includes important repairs to gates, fences, walls, paths and water-courses throughout the Park.

Upper Lodge Water Gardens
Restoration work to these important early 18th century water gardens will bring them into the public domain for the first time in many decades. Work will include the restoration of the original form of the ponds, de-silting and repair. It will also bring the cascade between the pools back into working order.