THE launch of a set of eight stamps to mark the 300th anniversary of the birth of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, who landscape designs include Longleat, has been announced by Royal Mail.

Capability Brown is remembered as ‘England’s greatest gardener’ he was nicknamed ‘Capability’ from his habit of describing locations as having ‘great capabilities’, he changed the face of eighteenth century England through his innovative approach to landscape gardening.

He designed the landscapes of country estates, by moving hills and creating flowing lakes and serpentine rivers. He also excavated valleys, planted expanses of turf, clumps of trees and bands of forest.

The stamps showcase eight of the best loved examples of Capability Brown’s work and a celebration of his contribution to the English landscape.

Included in the set is Longleat, home of the Viscount and Viscountess Weymouth, Ceawlin and Emma.

Longleat is set in 900 acres of parkland modelled by Brown, who for his efforts was paid over £6,100 between 1757 and 1762 by Lord Weymouth.

Viscount Weymouth said: “We are honoured and delighted to have been chosen to have our beautiful surroundings on a stamp. The stamp image is wonderful and we are fortunate to live in such a magnificent setting.

"Our gardeners perform a marvellous job to maintain it in such a grand style.”

Other locations featured on the stamps are: Blenheim Palace; Compton Verney; Highclere Castle; Alnwick Castle; Berrington Hall; Stowe; and Croome Park.

Ceryl Evans, director of the Capability Brown Festival, said: “It is wonderful that Royal Mail has issued a set of special stamps to celebrate the work of Lancelot 'Capability' Brown in his tercentenary year.

"The Capability Brown Festival is working to raise the profile and understanding of historic landscapes. What better way to bring these stunning images into people’s lives in homes and offices than on a stamp?”

Philip Parker, of the Royal Mail, said: “During his lifetime, Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown literally changed the face of Georgian England. By the time of his death, he was known to have shaped or influenced around 250 landscapes - these stamps pay tribute to the lasting legacy of his work.”

The stamps are available from today at www.royalmail.com/landscapegardens and 8,000 post offices.