On the south-western side of the town is one of the most celebrated
promenades in the kingdom, called The Quarry.
It is formed in a tract of verdant meadow ground of twenty-three acres,
gradually sloping to the river Severn, along the banks of which are
planted a graceful avenue of lime trees, extending 540 yards in length,
whose lofty arching branches entwine themselves so as to resemble the
long aisle of some religious fane.
Three other walks, planted in a similar manner, serve as approaches from
the town to this the principal promenade, which being enlivened with many
pleasing views, renders it in point of situation and beauty unrivalled.
Here the inhabitant may inhale the refreshing breeze wafted from the
rippling river,—the invalid find a cool and sequestered retreat free from
the noise of a bustling town,—while the mind alive to the charms of
nature may enjoy its philosophic contemplations in the ever-changing
beauties of the seasons.
A cluster of horse-chesnut and other trees growing in a dingle, and which
in autumn present a beautifully variegated mass of foliage, diversify
what otherwise might be considered a formal arrangement of these walks,
which were planted during the mayoralty of Henry Jenks, Esq. in 1719, and
derive their name from a red sandstone which was formerly procured from
this dingle.
On the opposite side of the meandering river is a verdant eminence
fringed with luxuriant plantations.
At the north-western end of the Quarry, near Claremont, is a sloping
bank, which originally formed an amphitheatre, called the “Dry Dingle,”
where religious mysteries (or miracle plays) were celebrated. Prince
Arthur, in 1494, attended one of these exhibitions, which were performed
on this spot, even after the Reformation, by the head-schoolmaster, Mr.
Ashton, and his pupils.
Crossing the ferry, at the extremity of the walk leading from the remains
of this amphitheatre, and pursuing the footpath in the field to the left
of the Boat-house, we reach an eminence from whence a prospect opens to
the view combining water, hill, plain, and wood in charming variety.
Continuing from hence to the right of the House of Industry, we arrive at