Garrick's Temple to Shakespeare

This is Octagonal 18th century temple located in idyllic grounds. The renowned actor-manager, David Garrick, built the Temple to celebrate the genius of William Shakespeare, commissioning the sculptor Roubiliac to provide a life-size statue of his hero to be placed inside. The recent restoration reinstates the statue in replica and also houses a display which celebrates David Garrick's acting career and his private life in Hampton. The garden has also been returned to its 18th century layout, complete with the serpentine path favoured by landscape designers of the day. It is also one of the free London attractions. 

Situated opposite Garrick's Villa on the Hampton Court Road (near its junction with with Thames Street and Church Street), the Temple and its gardens, owned by the London Borough of Richmond-upon-Thames, are managed with the assistance of a team of local volunteers. Built in 1756, the temple was fashioned out of stone and framed by a domed roof, a porch and four pillars. Reached by a grotto tunnel, Garrick used the folly for entertaining and dining. It originally housed a life-size statue, created by sculptor Roubiliac, of the celebrated playwright sitting at his desk. Restoration work on the building produced a replica of the statue which now resides inside the temple. The 18th century pleasure garden has been similarly reinstated, decorated by a serpentine path favoured by landscape designers of the day. Perched on the river’s edge, this is an idyllic spot to visit. 

VISITORS INFORMATION

Opening Times: Apr to Sep: Sun 14:00-17:00

Travel 

Railway Stations

Hampton Railway Station (11 minutes)

Hampton Court Railway Station (26 minutes) 

Car Parks 

The Avenue (23 minutes)

High Street (25 minutes) 

Address: 

Hampton Court Road, 

Hampton, 

TW12 2EA