Bonnington Pavilion, Category A listed building near Corra Linn falls, South Lanarkshire, Scotland
Bonnington Pavilion is a two-story stone structure with large windows, rusticated stone corners, and a pyramidal slate roof positioned to overlook the Falls of Clyde cascades. The building sits on a rocky outcrop above the waterfalls and was designed to capture views of the powerful water below.
Sir James Carmichael built the pavilion in 1708 as an entertainment venue for his Bonnington House estate. The structure emerged during a period when wealthy landowners created private viewing spots to enjoy the dramatic waterfalls of the region.
The pavilion served as a fashionable viewing spot for wealthy families to entertain guests and display their appreciation for natural scenery. It reflects how people of means in the 18th century created special places to experience and share the beauty of their landscape.
The pavilion sits on narrow ground close to the waterfalls, so expect wet conditions and slippery rocks underfoot. Access is currently limited due to ongoing maintenance, and it is wise to check site conditions before making the walk down to the structure.
The building contained mirrors that allowed upper-class women to view the waterfalls indirectly without breaking the strict dress codes of the time. This clever design detail reveals how social expectations shaped the architecture of private entertainment spaces in the 1700s.
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