Painshill is a masterpiece of garden design. The 18th century landscaped pleasure grounds are where Charles Hamilton created 'a fine place out of a most cursed hill' according to Horace Walpole. Painshill Park is a grade I listed Park & Garden containing many listed structures and follies.

Our tour starts in the Walled Garden where Karen Bridgeman will tell us about the seeds and plants business set up by Hamilton and the plant hunters of the time. Head of Landscape, Jake, will then take us on a walking tour of some of the Park where he will tell us about the historical development of the vineyard, its issues, conservation, flooding, Masterplan, sustainability and tree management. We shall see ‘the Greasers’ maintaining the Waterwheel, then up to the Temple of Bacchus where we can appreciate the significance of designed views in the landscape. A soup, sandwich and fruit cup lunch will be served especially for us in the Temple of Bacchus.

After lunch our very own Cherrill Sands will address us about Wm Gilpin and his influence at Painshill. Painter turned Landscape Designer, Gilpin is the topic of our Study Day on 16 July 2024 (booking will be open soon).

Karen Bridgeman will also be available in the Temple to answer any questions and display her historic books and other material that is too precious to leave outside in the walled garden.

Afterwards you are free to visit other parts of the Park. Toilets are at the Gothic Tower.

There is a lot of walking involved and much of it uphill. Sensible shoes advised and wet weather gear if required.

SGT Members only £45pp includes lunch, tea & coffee.
Please ensure you indicate any dietary requirements when booking.

Maximum number: 20

Please note that If the event is oversubscribed it will be repeated a month or two later.