The fully-restored gardens should open to the public next summer

The remains of the bridge at Cusworth Hall, believed to date from 1763, were found by a team working on a �7.5m restoration of the hall and its grounds.

Historians knew that garden designer Richard Woods, a contemporary of Capability Brown, commissioned a bridge during the 18th Century.

But it was never known where it had been built - or if it had been built at all.

Centuries of neglect

Now the University of Sheffield's Archaeological Research and Consultancy team (ARCUS) is working to uncover more of the 30ft stone structure, which is buried under earth and vegetation.

Experts believe the arched bridge was originally seen from all over the park - including Cusworth Hall itself.

But it disappeared from view after more than 200 years of disrepair and plant growth.

Excavation work has exposed a tantalising glimpse of the bridge

The restoration team now plans to explore the hall's old boathouse and water cascade over the coming weeks in the hope of making more discoveries.

Archaeologist Oliver Jessop, a gardens specialist, said: "This is one of the largest landscape restorations going on in South Yorkshire.

"It is quite important because the original features of the 18th century design still exist."

He expected the full-restored gardens to open to the public next summer.