Jesmond Dene, grotto

HER Number:
5716

District:
Newcastle

Site Name:
Jesmond Dene, grotto

Place:
Jesmond

Map Sheet:
NZ26NE

Class:
Industrial

Site Type: Broad:
Mineral Extraction Site

Site Type: Specific:
Sandstone Quarry

General Period:
POST MEDIEVAL

Specific Period:
Victorian 1837 to 1901

Form of Evidence:
Structure

Description:
Garden created by quarrying. The lower rocks are in-situ but the upper rocks have been deliberately placed on top and cleverly sprayed with a thin layer of concrete to make it look like one big slab of stone. There are also many loose large rocks stacked up on one side. The grotto is entered by a flight of steps to the south and a path from the north. The original path into the grotto, which would have been secluded by shrub planting is now almost entirely covered by rhododendrons. The grotto, with its almost subterranean depths and delicate fern-type planting was intended to be in stark contrast with the surrounding evergreen planting. It was an area to stimulate the imagination and a place for quiet contemplation (Fiona Green). The sound of the nearby waterfall (HER 5698) would have added to the atmosphere. Stone from this small quarry might have been used to build the waterfall.

Easting:
425680

Northing:
567190

Grid Reference:
NZ425680567190

Lats/Lons:

Sources:
<< HER 5716 >> Pers. Comm. Jesmond Dene Rangers, 2004