EDO4931 - Highcliffe Castle, Christchurch; historic landscape assessment 1996

Nicholas Pearson Associates were commissioned by Christchurch Borough Council to conduct a desk-based assessment of the historic landscape around Highcliffe Castle, Dorset, and draft proposals for the enhancement of the grounds of the castle. High Cliff house was built in 1773 as the coastal retreat of one of Britain's less well regarded Prime Ministers. He established a botanic garden at High Cliff and was davised by Capability Brown. The house was subsequently demolished and much of the landscape lost. Highcliffe Castle itself is a fine Gothic house of the 1830's, incorporating substantial medieval remains from France. Important areas of the associated ornamental landscape and estate remain. The landscape proposals aim to provide an attractive simple setting for the castle; reopening of historic views, restoration of overgrown pathways and enhanced management of the grounds.