Mysterious lost grotto 'hidden for over 100 years' has been discovered
It’s been a fantastic few weeks documenting the re-discovered grotto at Beckford’s Tower in Bath - I’ve been honoured and pleased to be able to provide ongoing photos and aerial videos to the Bath Preservation Trust.
Excerpt from local news:
A lost grotto that was "hidden for over 100 years" in Bath will be opening to the public this month. Beckford's Grotto, which was rediscovered in 2021 and excavated in 2023, will be open to visitors from Saturday, June 29 at Beckford's Tower and Museum.
Beckford's Tower was built in 1827 by its namesake, the wealthy and mysterious William Beckford. Beckford was known for writing an early gothic novel, his extravagant art collection, and his involvement in slavery which made him -by some accounts - the wealthiest commoner in England.
He died in 1844 and soon after his estates fell into disrepair, causing the grotto to be lost for over a hundred years. Director of Museums at Bath Preservation Trust Patrizia Ribul said: “The Grotto Tunnel is an integral part of the designed landscape of Beckford’s Tower. These new findings reconfirm many of the things that we already knew about William Beckford, such as his attention to detail in design, and his enthusiasm for nature."
Beckford’s Tower is looking incredible after its recent restoration. Under wraps and hidden from sight for a lengthy spell the top of the tower is gleaming golden in the sunlight. A stellar effort from all of those involved to bring this significant landmark back from the brink and back into the public view.
This photo forms part of a recent photography collaboration with the team at the tower, which is due to be opened on the 29th June.
Here’s some extra info from @beckfordstower (where you can also learn more about the opening):
‘Thank you Casper for this breath-taking new drone capture of Beckford’s Tower’s golden lantern, which was freshly re-gilded during our
18-month capital works project.
Many people haven’t heard about Beckford’s Tower, even those living here in Bath. It is one of Bath’s hidden gems, with much beauty to behold - but a more brutal history lies behind this exterior.
Beckford’s Tower reopens on 29th June 2024 and we look forward to welcoming everybody to a place that was once reserved for the use of one very privileged man. It’s not Beckford’s Tower, it’s Our Tower’
For more information about the opening and tickets follow this link: