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Latitude: 51.1743 / 51°10'27"N
Longitude: -1.7906 / 1°47'26"W
OS Eastings: 414737
OS Northings: 141692
OS Grid: SU147416
Mapcode National: GBR 502.B3Y
Mapcode Global: VHB5B.XR85
Plus Code: 9C3W56F5+PQ
Entry Name: Gay's Cave and Diamond
Listing Date: 10 January 1953
Grade: II*
Source: Historic England
Source ID: 1131081
English Heritage Legacy ID: 321314
ID on this website: 101131081
Location: West Amesbury, Wiltshire, SP4
County: Wiltshire
Civil Parish: Amesbury
Traditional County: Wiltshire
Lieutenancy Area (Ceremonial County): Wiltshire
Church of England Parish: Amesbury St Mary and St Melor
Church of England Diocese: Salisbury
Tagged with: Grotto
AMESBURY -
SU 1541
11/3 Gay's Cave and Diamond
10.1.53
GV II*
Grotto, late C18, perhaps by Flitcroft or Chambers. Limestone
facade and lining to chalk cut cave set in cliff over River Avon,
and below defences of Vespasian's camp (landscaped Iron Age
hillfort). Spoil forms front apron with inclined paths forming the
'diamond' in plan and elevation. Facade set at end of short
dromos, an arch with springing and keyblocks, and an open cornice,
all mouldings partly 'overgrown' with uncut rock-faced stone. Iron
gates with fan top.
Interior has square cell with arch headed niches each side, and to
rear, an arch to an apse. Groined vault. Settings in floor for
features now missing. Probably the place used by John Gay to write
'The Beggar's Opera' and 'Polly' in seclusion during his long stay
and patronage by the Duchess of Queensbury.
Listing NGR: SU1473741692
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