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St James' Square

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

Contributors

  • Avon Gardens Trust

  • E.J. Spiller