Atlas Fountain

The Atlas Fountain stands in the grounds of Castle Howard in North Yorkshire. It is a Grade I listed building, recognised for its architectural importance. The fountain and its pond date from 1850, though claims suggest earlier exhibition links. William Andrews Nesfield designed the fountain, while John Thomas carved the sculpted figures in Portland stone. The figures were transported by rail from London to Castle Howard railway station. Local craftsmen made the tazza, pedestals, shells and basin, and James Easton completed the water engineering. The fountain is worth the journey for its impressive engineering and craftsmanship. John Thomas was paid £1183 10s 3d for his work on the sculpted figures. The water engineering involved pumping water from a stream in Coneysthorpe to the Ray Wood reservoir using a steam engine. The fountain was turned on for the first time in October 1853. It has been overhauled twice, in 1983 and 2012, to maintain its condition. Visitors find a large bronze globe supported by Atlas at the centre of the fountain. Four Tritons blow water through shells over Atlas, who kneels on a pedestal in the central tazza. Other jets fill lower scallop shell basins, creating a dramatic cascade of white water. The pond is approximately 27 metres in diameter. Water flows from the half-million gallon Ray Wood reservoir to the east of the main house.