The Terrace and Gazebo at Old Durham. October 2001


Old Durham Gardens © DCC 2007

This area of gardens once belonged to Kepier Hospital, but was sold in 1569 to the Heath Family. The Walled gardens were laid out between 1630-50 and abandoned for a short period during the mid 18th century. A gazebo was built with views overlooking the cathedral. The gardens were set out for a manor house which was demolished between 1720 and 1787 and probably stood in the north-eastern part of the garden. Between 1753 and 1755 music recitals were organised by staff of Durham Cathedral. In 1787 the gardens became a public park and music concerts became common. An inn called 'The Pineapple' was set up on the side of the gardens and continued as a tearoom into the 20th century. Excavations in 1989-90 and a 1990 RCHME field survey lead to the gardens being restored. The gardens are rectangular in plan, comprising three compartments. The southeast garden is now planted with lawns and formal layout of shrubs and flower beds following a layout identified from excavation. A pond was present in the southwest corner. This layout was replaced in the mid 19th century by a bowling green.