The Life of Robin Spencer
Robin Anthony Spencer was born on June 19th 1934. Following his education at Leeds Grammar School, and later Lindisfarne College, he completed two years of National Service. He trained as a Surveyor and eventually joined his father in the family firm.
Sybil with baby Robin in 1934
In school uniform
At Lindisfarne College
Robin's woodworker certificate shows his early aptitude for making things
While this picture from 1951 shows his interest in drawing
Robin in army uniform
Like his father Robin trained as a Surveyor
Like his parents, Robin was fond of dogs
He moved to York Gate with his family in 1952. After finishing his National Service he devoted most of his spare time working on the garden. Robin had a great flair for design which can be seen throughout the garden. He was also a passionate collector and acquired many interesting items from auctions, antique fairs and demolition sites, which he used with great creativity at York Gate.
Robin created the Nut Walk in 1961
He also created the Pinetum in 1961
The iconic "Six Sail " hedge was planted in 1962.
White and silver garden as originally planted by Robin and Sybil in 1965
Ink drawing of the Sundial
Millstone path and sundial created in 1968
Robin acquired a pumphead which he had installed in the garden
Robin's sketch of the Pumphead
The folly was built in 1969.
Pencil designs for the Folly by Robin
The Arbour was designed by Robin and created in 1971
Robin's sketch for the Arbour
One of many garden ornaments acquired by Robin
One of Robin's sketches showing some design ideas
Robin designed and constructed the raised canal at Sybil's request
The Pavement Maze was laid in 1978.
Robin's sketch of the maze at Hilton Huntingdon. A possible inspiration for the one at York Gate.
Robin's design for the centre of the Maze
Newspaper article about the Pavement Maze
The Carpet Path was laid in 1980.
He continued to live at York Gate until his sudden death on May 12th 1982.
Obituary from Lindisfarne School
Sybil kept press notices about both Fred and Robin's deaths