Temple Grounds, Richmond- restoration of the Green Walk

Temple Grounds in Richmond is a Grade II registered parkland dating back to the 17th Century.

Nestling to the west of Richmond and bounded by the river Swale, the Grounds were originally developed around the mansion known as Yorke House. Whilst Yorke House was sadly demolished in the 1820s the parkland has survived to this day.

A management plan for the parkland is nearly finished. Natural England's Historic Environment Adviser, Dr. Margaret Nieke, has been busy working on specific restoration proposals for the Green Walk. This is a grass terrace area cut close to the top of a natural ridge and retained by dry stone walls. The terrace dates back to the medieval period when it provided the principal walkway from where to view the landscape park and its wider setting.

So what is going to take place?

In recent years the stone walls have been disturbed by the mature trees which line it. This has caused parts of the walls to collapse, making the Green Walk unsafe. The first phase of the restoration work will concentrate on managing the trees. Much of this work will involve trimming and general maintenance, but sadly some of the trees which compromise the structure of the walls will have to be removed.

Great care has been taken to ensure that any trees which don't affect the walls will be retained. In the short term there will be some noticeable loss of tree cover, but in the longer term, the remaining non damaging trees will quickly establish themselves.

Dr Margaret Nieke, Natural England Historic Environment Adviser said: "This is a fantastic project and I'm delighted to be involved. There is so much history behind Temple Grounds and it's fantastic to think that we are giving it a new lease of life. The tree work is only the first step; it will play an important part in restoring the stone walls that define the Green Walk. It will also allow people to enjoy the area safely and ensure the health of the remaining trees for future generations to enjoy."

Val Hepworth from the Yorkshire Gardens Trust added: "As a local resident I will be glad to see the Green Walk restored to its former glory. The restoration work will allow local people and visitors alike to enjoy this special place."

Dr and Mrs Lawson who own Temple Grounds said: "We are very pleased with the advice and support we have received from Natural England. Restoration work like this is very sensitive and Dr Nieke has helped us through it. Now we are counting the days until summer, when the work is complete and we can take a stroll along the Green Walk."

For further information contact:

Howard Botting on 0300 060 2035 or 077860 28824,   
Emma MacDonald on 0300 060 4231 or 07900 608073,