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Lodge Park, Sherborne
Summary
A rare surviving 17th century grandstand, Lodge Park was built as part
of the Sherborne estate by John Dutton as an observation post for deer
coursing. The restored grandstand is set in 18th century parkland designed
by Charles Bridgeman.
What is a grandstand?
Like a modern sporting ground, a 17th century grandstand was a place
to watch - in some elegance - a popular sporting event. In this case
the sport was deer coursing. In this 'sport' a deer was released at
the start of a long open space, or track. Hunting dogs were then released
to chase the deer. The course extended for some distance; at Lodge Park
the course ran a mile, and ended in two ditches. Watchers on the balcony
or roof of the grandstand could watch the course of the race, and bets
were placed on whether the dogs would catch the deer.
 The
grandstand at Lodge Park was built in 1634 by John 'Crump' Dutton, so
named for his crooked back. Around 1730 the grounds surrounding the
grandstand were greatly remodeled by Charles Bridgeman in the style
that became known as English landscape gardening.
The grandstand underwent several renovations over the years, and in
the 20th century served as the principal residence of Lord Sherborne.
When Lord Sherborne died in 1983 he left the grandstand to his housekeeper
with the prriviso that she could stay in it as long as she wished. Finally
the grandstand passed to the National Trust. A painstaking program of
renovations was carried out, with the aim of returning Lodge Park to
the interior layout that it would have had in the 17th century.
What's it like to visit?
There is a small parking area beside the grandstand. An audiovisual
presentation tells the story of the grandstand and its renovation. Several
rooms on the lower floor are open, as is the great hall on the first
floor. Here you will see two huge, ornate chests presented to Lord Sherborne
when he served as First Lord of the Treasury. Ascend via a winding stair
to the roof of the grandstand for excellent views across the grounds,
where the location of the deer course in front of the building is clearly
visible.
National Trust
See our Photos of
Lodge Park >>
More Photos of Lodge Park
Approaching Lodge Park |
The classical Portico of Lodge Park
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Nearby
Northleach
Regional attractions:
Cotswolds
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Accommodation
| Gloucestershire |
1 Holmer Cottages
Woolstone
Self catering cottage
The cottage offers 1 double with brass bed & 1 single bed, bathroom with shower over bath, south-facing sitting/dining room with french windows onto sun … more >>
Sleeps 3
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| Gloucestershire |
Fountain View
South Cerney
Self catering cottage
Property comprises 3 bedrooms - 1 king, 1 double and 1 bunk room.There is a downstairs shower room with toilet & wash hand basin. Also … more >>
Sleeps 6
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| Northleach (Hotel) |
The Wheatsheaf Hotel
Featuring open fires and flag stone floors, this 17th century stone Cotswold coaching inn fuses rustic and contemporary styles. Listed in 'The Good Pub Guide' and offering recently refurbished, individually styled en- suite rooms. The Wheatsheaf Hotel also provides a fresh, daily menu prepared by award winning … more >>
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| Northleach (Hotel) |
The Wheatsheaf Hotel
Welcome to this delightful "Completely Refurbished" Country retreat with a twist! The Wheatsheaf is a 17th century Cotswold stone coaching inn with flag stone floors; open fires and a rustic/contemporary feel. Located in the picturesque town of Northleach it is the perfect setting to stay while you explore the beautiful … more >>
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