A local solicitor called Thomas Billings purchased the site in 1831 and put plans in train for Gloucestershire Zoological, Botanical and Horticultural Gardens.

Elements of the original plans remain which include the Elephant Walk and the lake which is in the shape of Africa.

[2] There are a set of entrance gates which remain from this period, and Fullwood House in the grounds provides a point of interest within the landscape.

[2] The trees have been obtained from different parts of the world including the United States of America and Europe.

Deciduous conifers of interest include dawn redwoods (planted c. 1989) and European larch.

[2] The meadow areas support a range of species which include red campion, primrose, nettle-leaved bellflower, enchanter's nightshade, garlic mustard, hedge woundwort, upright hedge parsley and green alkanet.

The car park areas have been constructed of 'grass pavers' and support species such as yarrow, black medick and wild strawberry.

[2] The ornamental lake, with its boathouse, is a focus for birds such as mallard and geese and the common kingfisher visits the site.