One of Britain’s finest 18th century water gardens opened to the public for the very first time last week, marking the completion of a major restoration project.

Visitors to Bushy Park, south west London, will be able to enjoy the Baroque-style cascades and fountains of the Upper Lodge Water Gardens.

The makeover of the gardens, which were created in 1710 by the 1st Earl of Halifax but which disappeared beneath undergrowth and silt during the last century, cost £780,000. It was funded by The Royal Parks, the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Crown Estate, The Royal Parks Foundation, and other supporters.

Restoration work began in 2006, including de-silting and returning the ponds to their original shape and depth, and overhauling the water engineering system to restore the direct connection to the Longford River.

Archaeological investigations pinpointed the location of the original stoop basins and alcoves which flank the cascade and these were reconstructed. Formal landscaping and the installation of footpaths have completed the reclamation of the gardens.

Greg McErlean, director of major projects at The Royal Parks said: “Starting as a degraded and unsafe heritage asset, little known and out of the public eyes, the gardens have been transformed through detailed research, design, quality workmanship, and support from the local community.

"By bringing to life this unique landscape we hope the gardens will prove to be a popular addition to visitors’ enjoyment of the park for many more years to come.”