Garrick's Temple to Shakespeare, Octagonal folly temple in Hampton, London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, England.
Description
Garrick's Temple to Shakespeare is an octagonal brick building with an Ionic portico that stands on the north bank of the Thames within Garrick's Lawn gardens. The structure was designed to house a collection related to Shakespeare and remains one of the smallest listed buildings in the area.
History
David Garrick commissioned this brick structure in 1756 as a space to display his Shakespeare memorabilia and hold social gatherings. The building later earned Grade I listed status and passed to public ownership through the Hampton Urban District Council in 1932.
Culture
The statue inside depicts Shakespeare in classical dress, based on a design by Louis-François Roubiliac. Visitors see how 18th-century admirers chose to represent and celebrate the playwright through sculpture.
Practical
The temple is open on Sunday afternoons from April through October, offering free entry to view the interior and displays. The seasonal schedule means visitors should plan their visit accordingly and check ahead for any closures.
Did you know?
Despite its small size, this building earned Grade I listing status, making it one of the most protected structures of its kind in the area. The contrast between its modest dimensions and its grand purpose reveals how Garrick viewed his role as a keeper of Shakespeare's legacy.
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