The Grand Walk, Vauxhall Gardens

In 1746, Venetian painter, etcher and draughtsman Canaletto moved to Britain, hoping to secure patronage from many of those who had been on the Grand Tour and for whom he had worked in Italy. Vauxhall Gardens was one of the most fashionable venues for public entertainment in London. Located in Kennington on the south bank of the River Thames and known as New Spring Gardens until 1785, Vauxhall Gardens became a venue for musical performances, including George Frederick Handel’s 'Music for the Royal Fireworks' in 1749, which attracted an audience of over 12,000.