History of Gatton Park

Gatton Park

People are often happy to drive miles to see a garden designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. Yet, there’s one in our area - Merstham’s very own Gatton Park.

Last Monday we heard Dan Ryan, Head Gardener at Gatton, tell us about the history of the estate and the ongoing work being undertaken.

When the estate was owned by Lord Monson it was redesigned by Capability Brown. After it was bought by Jeremiah Colman – one time vice-president of MHS – various areas were redesigned. After Jeremiah’s death this gradually fell into decline.

Dan explained how the restoration work was funded, and how his team had built on the work undertaken by others. He was able to show us how Jeremiah’s gardens had been ‘discovered’ and restored – including the Japanese garden, the parterre, the rockery. Work is now being undertaken to restore the pool area.

It was a really fascinating talk and a great start to this year’s programme! Thanks to Dan and Roger (Gatton volunteer) for a really enjoyable evening.

If you want to know more about Gatton and it’s history click on the link History – Gatton Park

Gatton Park is open to the public on the first Sunday of every month from February to December and definitely worth a visit.