Starting point
We at Cotswold Estates and Gardens are thrilled to showcase a captivating project designed by Portus + Whitton, which opened in 2010. Our historic walled garden now serves as a stunning backdrop for the display of fossilised Megalosaurus footprints, unearthed and relocated from Ardley Quarry near Bicester. This project features Jurassic-era planting, enhancing the setting for a commissioned life-size dinosaur model. This installation not only functions as an educational facility for schools but also amazes and inspires our young visitors.
The challenge /opportunity
The challenge for this project was to seamlessly integrate ancient history within a modern educational and recreational context. Preserving the integrity of the fossilised Megalosaurus footprints during their relocation from Ardley Quarry to the historic walled garden required meticulous planning and execution. Additionally, ensuring that the Jurassic-era planting complemented the garden’s aesthetic while providing an authentic prehistoric environment posed a significant challenge. However, this project presented a unique opportunity to transform the garden into an immersive educational space. By installing a life-size dinosaur model, we created an awe-inspiring attraction that captivates young visitors, fostering their interest in natural history and paleontology. This project not only enriches the garden’s cultural heritage but also enhances its educational value, making it a landmark destination for schools and families.
More outcomes/
key successes
The outcome of this project has been an overwhelming success, exceeding all expectations. The integration of fossilised Megalosaurus footprints and the life-size dinosaur model has transformed the historic walled garden into a vibrant educational hub. Visitors are consistently amazed by the authentic prehistoric atmosphere created by the Jurassic-era planting.Â
The installation has become a highly popular attraction, drawing families, school groups, and dinosaur enthusiasts from far and wide. The educational programs developed around this installation have been particularly successful, sparking curiosity and a love for natural history among young visitors. This project has not only enhanced the cultural and educational value of the garden but also significantly boosted its visitor numbers, securing its status as a premier destination in the Cotswolds.
This garden won a BALI award for High levels of
professionalism and craftsmanship.
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TESTIMONIALS
See what our clients
are saying about us!
"Good morning Joe, Ann, Trevor and team
As you know, we had 12+ people here for last weekend who tested the new garden/grounds layout to the maximum. It was such a joy to see people wandering around the paths, walkways, bridges, steps and lawns without returning caked in mud. A relaxed time was had in the sunshine and there was great admiration for your collective work. We aren’t quite finished yet but so much has been achieved in the past year to such a high level and with such forethought and care that it made a huge difference. The whole new secret garden is practical as well as beautiful and, yes, fizz was drunk there in the early evening.
Thank you all and to Jasper and the rest of the Cotswolds team who have worked so very hard."
Sarah and Richard
Joe, I’m ecstatic I love the whole garden so much! Thank you, you and the boys always give me exactly what I hope for! It’s almost a shame there are no more projects!