Scotts Grotto

About this activity

Scott's Grotto is a magical place of rooms and tunnels clad in a variety of shells, fossils and other materials! It was built in the 1760s by local poet John Scott and was restored in 1990. 

Scott's Grotto is the only remaining part of John Scott's original garden of Amwell House, and over time, the estate has been sold for housing and educational use. Slowly over time, the grotto was damaged due to the modern housing built all around it, but when work began in 1990, it has been restored and open to visitors. 

The grotto has a series of chambers and there are sir tunnels to ensure it is well ventilated that helps preserve the 150 year old structure. It still isn't known why it was built, but you can use your imagination when you visit it! 

At the highest part of the garden there is the Summerhouse and extensive work was carried out to remove the cladding panels and to restore it to it's original glory. 

Scott's Grotto is open on Saturdays and Bank Holidays between April and September and there's no need to book! It'sjust £2.00 to enter and all money goes towards the maintenance of the historic site. 

The site itself is unlit, so you may need a torch and some flat shoes to make you more comfortable when walking around!