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Shell Grotto
Grand Stand, Pontypool Park, Pontypool, Torfaen, NP4 8AT, WalesAbout
Shell Grotto was originally constructed in 1794 for the Hanbury family. Molly, the wife of Capel Hanbury-Leigh, made improvements to it in c1830. She is said to have had the inspiration for the spectacular shell decoration inside and the rustication on the outside wall was probably created for her. The Grotto is circular, built in rough stone with a conical stone tiled roof. The ceiling is vaulted and supported by six pillars. It is decorated with small shells and some large exotic ones, together with clusters of spar and stars of crystal, set in geometric and flower patterns. The floor is decorated with animal bones arranged in geometric patterns, stars and a ring of hearts and diamonds. The Grotto has undergone extensive renovation and repair in recent years. The exterior was repaired in 1994 and the splendour of the beautifully decorated ceilings, posts and floor were rescued and painstakingly restored in 1996. Four new metal windows faced with oak slats and metal studs have been installed having been designed using Gothic arched frames and hand made clear and coloured glass. And the rustic timber chairs originally housed in the Grotto have been restored and returned to their rightful place.
