Literary connections
The mysteries of Stowe continue throughout the literary world. The gardens influence has rubbed off on many authors and inspiration can be found in many books. A book with possibly the strongest connection to Stowe is the sequel to Gulliver's Travel's called Mistress Mashsam's Repose written in 1946 by T.H White. As a former teacher at Stowe, White took strong inspiration from the gardens when creating the setting of the story. A map printed at the back of the book also shows clear comparisons featuring lakes and islands, woodland and temples just like Stowe.
The gardeners also took inspiration from books when creating the gardens. The design of the Sleeping Wood, located next to the Octagon lake, was inspired by Charles Perrault’s Sleeping Beauty. The Sleeping Parlour once sat within a mazy wood, with paths winding through the shrubberies and leading to the centre revealing a secret clearing. This represents the castle becoming hidden in the thorns, the winding paths are your 100 years journey to get through to the clearing and break the spell.
Top reading spot
We've chosen Grenville's Column as the best spot to take a seat on the grass for a moment to read surrounding yourself with scenic views. The statue of Heroic Poetry stands on top representing one of the four types of poetry - Heroic, Pastoral, Satyric and Lyric. Tucked away in the Elysian Fields, she faces across the River Styx towards the Temple of British Worthies reading from a scroll which reads 'Non nisi grandia canto' meaning 'Of none but heroic deeds I sing'.
Where will I find the bookshop?
To discover The Old Dairy Bookshop, head into the historic Parlour Rooms on the right-hand side of the old coaching inn when you first arrive and walk into the courtyard.
We also welcome book donations from the public, if you have any you'd like to give please contact us on 01280 817156 so our team can be on hand to help.
