Introduction
Features of The Bishops Palace included lakes, enclosed gardens, a deer park and an orchard.
Behind the palace further gardens lay either side of a raised causeway, known as Lady's Walk, with views across various parts of the garden. Ornamental fishponds, a terraced walk with gardens, below, further raised walks, a small water garden and an orchard completed the layout which was surrounded by a large deer park.
The site is now farmed and apart from remains of brick walled gardens, there is little evidence of the former glory. However, aerial photographs show the outlines of the ponds, terraces and water gardens as cropmarks, and evidence of the spacious layout can be realised from the existing field boundaries.
- History
The site of the medieval palace of the Bishops of Ely lies to the south of the village of Somersham. From the early-12th century, it became an episcopal residence of some importance, being relatively close to Ely and at the end of the first stage of most journeys made by the Bishops of Ely on their way to London.
Period
- Medieval (1066-1540)
- 12th Century
- Features & Designations
Features
- Orchard
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- Garden Wall
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- Garden Terrace
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- Walk
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- Lake
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- Fishpond
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- Palace (featured building)
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- Key Information
Type
Garden
Purpose
Ornamental
Principal Building
Domestic / Residential
Period
Medieval (1066-1540)
Survival
Lost
Civil Parish
Somersham
- References
Contributors
Cambridgeshire Gardens Trust