Ray Wood

Originally known as "Wray Wood", it was first recorded in the 16th century. In 1699, George London was commissioned to landscape the woodland, planning to cut radial avenues through it. This plan was not pursued, and instead in 1705 a more naturalistic labyrinth design of paths was created, probably to a design by either Nicholas Hawksmoor or John Vanbrugh. From 1706 to 1710, a boundary wall, summer house, fountains, statues, seats and steps were constructed. It became a popular place for visitors to the estate to stroll. Stephen Switzer was particularly enthusiastic about the wood, describing it as "this incomparable wood, the highest pitch that natural and polite gardening can ever…