Lodge Park and Sherborne Park Estate: England’s Unique 17th-Century Grandstand and Tranquil Cotswold Wildlife Haven

An Architectural Gem of the 17th Century

Lodge Park was originally constructed in 1634 as a grandstand for deer coursing, a popular aristocratic sport, by John 'Crump' Dutton. It is the only surviving grandstand of its kind from the 17th century in England. The building features two storeys with a flat roof and basement, including a portico with a balcony and a Great Room on the first floor where guests were entertained. Over the centuries, Lodge Park underwent various transformations—from a house to cottages and back—before being bequeathed to the National Trust in 1982. The Trust undertook meticulous restoration to return it to its original grandstand form, guided by historical documents and archaeological findings.

The Sherborne Estate: A Working Landscape Rich in Wildlife

Surrounding Lodge Park is the Sherborne Estate, a working agricultural estate that is home to a variety of wildlife including fallow and roe deer, badgers, foxes, otters, and water voles. The estate’s 18th-century water meadows, complete with historic drainage channels and sluices, provide important habitats for dragonflies and other species. The estate is open year-round from dawn to dusk, offering several walking routes such as the Short Woodland Stroll, Family Fun Walk, and Historic Farmland Hike, all starting from Ewe Pen Barn. Visitors can enjoy peaceful nature walks and a sculpture trail within the pleasure grounds.

Restoration and Landscape Heritage

The landscape surrounding Lodge Park was designed in the 18th century by Charles Bridgeman, a pioneering gardener whose work was considered revolutionary. Although Bridgeman’s original design was never fully completed, recent efforts by the National Trust aim to restore the estate’s historic landscape features. This includes reviving the Bridgeman landscape and enhancing wildlife corridors to support biodiversity alongside sustainable farming practices. The restoration work reflects a balance between preserving cultural heritage and fostering ecological health.

Visitor Experience and Activities

Lodge Park is open to the public on select weekends from March to October, with daily openings in August. Visitors can explore the grandstand’s restored interiors on guided tours, although some upper areas may be temporarily closed for maintenance. The estate’s extensive footpaths invite leisurely walks through mixed woodland and farmland, ideal for families, dog walkers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Seasonal nature-inspired activities and workshops are offered during summer weekends, enriching the visitor experience. The estate’s tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for relaxation and reconnecting with nature.

Historical Significance and Cultural Legacy

Lodge Park stands as a rare architectural and cultural relic that illustrates 17th-century leisure and social customs among the English gentry. Its survival and restoration provide valuable insights into period-specific design, entertainment, and landscape architecture. The estate’s ongoing management by the National Trust ensures that both the historic structure and its natural surroundings are protected for future generations, blending heritage conservation with environmental stewardship.

Natural Beauty and Wildlife Conservation

The Sherborne Estate’s diverse habitats support a rich array of wildlife, making it a significant site for nature lovers and conservationists. The presence of deer, badgers, foxes, otters, and numerous bird species enriches the estate’s ecological tapestry. The National Trust’s initiatives to maintain water meadows and wildlife corridors exemplify modern conservation efforts harmonized with traditional land use. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, peaceful walks, and the chance to observe wildlife in a quintessential Cotswold setting.