In 1710 an early phase of landscape design was begun when York builder, William Etty, was commissioned by Edward 4th Viscount Irwin to create the East Avenue, with its spreading woodland, ornamental lakes and bridge. The Avenue was artfully designed to create a sense of expectation with a distant view of the house that disappeared as the road descended to the lakes, reappearing at the crest of the hill, rising up above the landscape. The lakes, now known as the Avenue ponds were stocked with fish and swans completed the picture. The landscaping took five years and cost £850.

Other works continued piecemeal until Henry, the 7th Viscount inherited in 1736 and began a full programme of improvements to the House and Park. During this time the east setting of the house was transformed, the lower courtyard, buildings and yards were replaced by an open landscape flanked by neo-classical lodges and the matching stable block and riding school. A painting by Chapman of 1750 may provide a good picture of this vista at that time.

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On to Capability Brown - mid to late 18th century