Restoration and Conservation
Across the wider Estate are more than 200 listed buildings and monuments, the majority of which are located in the North East of England. Many of these structures are iconic landmarks, including Alnwick Castle itself, Ratcheugh Observatory, Bondgate Tower, Hulne Priory, Lion Bridge, and Alnwick Gatehouse, as well as Syon Park in London.
Historic buildings require dedicated and ongoing care to stand the test of time. Since the early 2000s, a comprehensive programme of skilled conservation work has been underway at Alnwick Castle, directed by the 12th Duke of Northumberland.
Maintaining such significant heritage sites calls for expert craftsmanship, traditional materials, and time-honoured techniques. Every effort is made to preserve the original character of these extraordinary buildings while securing their future.
Alnwick Castle
Maintaining Alnwick Castle as a visitor attraction has involved major structural repairs.
In recent years work has been undertaken to the curtain walls, many of the towers and battlements, and the restoration of some of the ornate sculptures as well as glazing and joinery repairs and the installation of lightning conductors. We have repaired the spiral stone access stairs to the North Wall walks, and uncovered and restored the entrance to the underground 18th Century ice house in the castle grounds, which was completely dismantled and rebuilt.
The latest phase of work at Alnwick Castle's inner keep is almost complete. As one of the busiest areas of the Castle work has been carried out safely, sensitively and efficiently, minimising any disruption to the visitor experience as much as possible.
The Library
Conservation work took place throughout 2024 in the State Rooms Library. Scaffolding was erected to enable the cleaning of the intricately carved wooden ceiling, which dates back to the mid-19th century. Work was carried out on every level of the Library, including the balustrade, bookcases, fireplaces, and floors.
The cleaning of the carved, painted, and gilded ceiling—designed by Giovanni Montiroli—alone required approximately 400 hours to complete.