About the Manor Dipping Pond (Round Pond)

Known by many names as Bathing Pool /Concrete Pond / Roman Pond & Round Pond, this pool of water is correctly known as a Dipping Pond. With an internal diameter measurement of 46ft (14m) and a depth of between 2ft and 3ft in the centre when fully filled with water it was originally believed by many to be an ornamental reflective pond set within a walled garden but it was more than that as it had a physical function in the growth of the produce grown within the garden that it was situated in. Most Dipping Ponds are either fed by underground pipe work leading from either a nearby lake or well and whilst it is not currently known how the Dipping Pond in Dagnam Park gains its water it would have been a handy source for as much water that was needed. Set in the internal wall of the pond are four graduated 10 inch “steps” placed at each compass point which would enable those working in the kitchen garden to be able to draw water from it by using the steps and placing a bucket / watering can below the water’s surface to spread over the plants in their care and by doing so gave the pond its official term of Dipping Pond. One can find such circular ponds in most walled gardens of the period, Copped Hall in Epping has a fine example for instance.