Introduction
St James' Square, Bath has a communal garden informally planted with trees and shrubs. The square is enclosed by railings and is not open to the public. However, it can be easily seen from the neighbouring roads.
There are several fine old trees within the square, including a plane and some more unusual species (tree of heaven). The whole is surrounded by a roadway and overlooked by terraces of Georgian houses. The buildings are four storeys including the basements and are separated from the pavement by iron railings.
St. James' Square is an informal garden maintained by a residents' association. It is kept tidy and at the time of the last survey was host to several sheep.
- History
18th Century
The houses were designed by John Palmer and built around 1794. The square itself was intended as a recreational area for the residents and was probably always surrounded by railings.
19th Century
Prints from the 19th century show the garden to be planted in an informal style. From 1835, Walter Savage Landor (poet) lived at No. 36. Many distinguished literary figures visited him there, including Dickens and Longfellow.
Period
- 18th Century (1701 to 1800)
- Late 18th Century (1775 to 1799)
- Associated People
- Features & Designations
Designations
Conservation Area
- Reference: Bath
Style
Informal
- Key Information
Type
Designed Urban Space
Purpose
Ornamental
Principal Building
Domestic / Residential
Period
18th Century (1701 to 1800)
Survival
Part: standing remains
Hectares
0.4
Open to the public
Yes
- References
References
- Lees-Milne, James {Images of Bath} (Richmond-upon-Thames: Saint Helena, 1982) Images of Bath
- {Somerset and Wessex Life} (1973) Somerset and Wessex Life
Contributors
Avon Gardens Trust
E.J. Spiller