Built in the 1760s, the Ionic Rotunda sat proudly among the glorious woodland walks and landscape views of Petworth Pleasure Grounds, overlooking the beautiful open countryside of the South Downs.

However, in the 1950s, the domed roof of the Rotunda had to be removed due to water ingress causing the structure to become unsafe. This left sections of stonework exposed to the weather, and in recent years the condition of the Rotunda has been carefully monitored with great concerns about its deterioration. Plans for its extensive restoration, including essential conservation and repair to the original Portland stonework, and for the reinstatement of the dome finally become a reality when funding for the work become available in 2006.

© NTPL / Tim Cook

The Restoration Project

Many traditional methods and skills were used during the restoration of the Rotunda. The construction of the dome itself was achieved by the forming of a locally sourced oak rafter structure. The exterior of the dome was then close-boarded and covered in sand-cast lead sheet. The interior of the dome had oak lathes screwed to the rafters and a traditional well-haired lime plaster was used.

The work was completed in autumn 2007 and has ensured the survival of this magnificent building in Petworth’s Pleasure Grounds for visitors to enjoy for generations to come.