WORK to reinstate key features of Castle Howard’s designed landscape has entered its second phase.

It follows the successful restoration of the estate’s central lime avenue earlier this year, which has seen the avenue removed from the Historic England Heritage at Risk register.

Forthcoming work will focus on the restoration of the 18th century obelisk ponds which span the avenue, which have become overgrown and their original clay liners have degraded, meaning they are no longer watertight.

Nicholas Howard, whose family have owned the stately home which has featured in movies and TV dramas including Brideshead Revisited for more than 300 years, said: ‘Water is a fundamental part of our designed landscape and the ponds and lakes which dot the estate are an integral part of the original 18th century garden plans.

"They create important breaks and low level viewpoints as well as being a rich habitat for the huge amount of flora and fauna across the estate. The obelisk ponds are one of the final features along our avenue to be reinstated and their restoration will complete our grand approach."

The northern end of the lime avenue will also undergo work, with a combination of pruning, felling and replanting ensuring it is returned to the 18th century planting plan.