Discover the story of Oatlands' lost grotto

Residents are invited to explore a fascinating piece of Elmbridge's history at Cobham Library.

Elmbridge Museum has put together a display showcasing detailed scale models of local landmarks that have helped shape life in the borough. Among the highlights is a remarkable model of the lost Oatlands Grotto, kindly loaned by local resident and historian John Wilkinson.

Bringing a lost landmark back to life

Did you know that Weybridge was once home to an extraordinary 18th-century grotto?

Built between 1762 and 1768 in Oatlands Park, the grotto featured decorated chambers, shells, stalactites, mirrors and even a bath chamber containing a statue of Venus. Although it was demolished in 1948, its story has been brought back to life through historian John Wilkinson's detailed scale model.

A blog reveals how a single historic photograph sparked John's fascination with the grotto. Drawing on old plans, photographs and museum collections, he spent years uncovering its story and recreating the lost landmark in miniature.

Whether you are interested in local history, model making or Elmbridge's heritage, the exhibition and blog offer a fascinating insight into one of the borough's forgotten treasures.

Visit the display

'A Model View: Exploring Local Landmarks in Miniature'
Cobham Library, The Cedar Centre, Cedar Road, KT11 3AE
Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30am to 5pm
Free to visit until February 2027.

Read the blog

The Lost Grotto of Oatlands.

Come to the talk

Oatlands Park and Grotto
Cobham Library, The Cedar Centre, KT11 3AE
Tuesday 13 October 2026 - 10:30am to 11:30am

A talk by Nick Pollard, Spelthorne Museum Curator, to accompany the Model View exhibition. Book your ticket (£5).