The restoration of hundreds of thousands of crystals embedded on to the framework of an 18th century grotto has been rewarded.

Painshill Park Trust entered the Crystal Grotto, part of the landscape garden in Cobham, into the Historic Houses Association and Sotheby's Restoration Award earlier this year.

The crystals, calcite, gypsum, quartz and fluorite, including originals recovered, were embedded to create the dazzling effect of the original folly.

Mike Gove, chief executive officer at Painshill, said: "The trust and everyone who was involved with the project are extremely proud that the folly, which historically has been recognised as the finest stalactite grotto in Europe, continues to impress its audience."

Painshill will be presented with a certificate at a special awards ceremony in 2015.

Harry Dalmeny, chairman of Sotheby's UK, said: "Restoration of the magical grotto was a truly great undertaking. The technical skill required to work with such unusual materials and return the grotto to its former glory make this an exceptional achievement."

The restoration of the grotto in 2013 was funded by private donations and the Heritage Lottery Fund.