In 1748, Benjamin commissioned Thomas Robins, an English artist known for his depictions of country houses and gardens, to paint the garden. Of course, he had no idea that two hundred years later, this very painting would inspire the garden’s restoration.

Time passed, and the pleasure garden for wealthy landowners fell into disrepair—mainly because Rococo gardens were a relatively short-lived trend. As the Rococo style fell out of favour, the garden was neglected, and timber trees were even planted deliberately to pave the way for more modern landscapes. In the 1980s, Thomas Robins’ painting, depicting the garden in its original glory, was rediscovered. This led to the launch of a restoration project under the direction of Painswick’s owner, Lord Dickinson. Thanks to years of dedicated work, the Rococo Garden has been lovingly brought back to life. Since then, it has been managed by the Painswick Rococo Garden Trust, an independent registered charity.

With its quirky follies and winding paths, this eccentric 18th-century garden is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wonderfully dog-friendly day out for you and your four-legged companion. The garden features eye-catching buildings like the Eagle House, Doric Seat, Red House (our favourite!), and Pigeon House, all nestled among perfect spots for snuggling. So if you’re looking for a picturesque outing with your pup, brimming with charm, curiosity, and Cotswold character, don’t miss the magical escape that is Painswick Rococo Garden.