The Workhouse – not just papering over the cracks

Be part of the project to conserve The Workhouse site, telling the story of how society has tackled poverty, health and social welfare both then and now.

A room in Firbeck Infirmary with peeling wallpaper — The previously unexplored Firbeck

Re-Imagining The Workhouse, Southwell

We are closed to visitors over the winter months whilst extensive building and conservation work is underway. The new re-presented Workhouse will be open to visitors in spring 2019.

The Workhouse story behind Firbeck Infirmary

Discover the history of Firbeck Infirmary, its role and why we are bringing it back into the visitor experience at The Workhouse.

A two storey portacabin on site at The Workhouse

The Workhouse Re-imagining Project

Keep up to date with the latest news and updates about this project.

Donate to The Workhouse – not just papering over the cracks

We couldn’t do this work without your support. Here's how your donations can help:

Staff measuring and renovating existing windows in Firbeck House

£10 A specialist team from National Trust’s Clumber Park are constructing new sash windows for Firbeck Infirmary. A £10 donation could help pay for this conservation process which involves the re-use of historical glass before being re-instated at Firbeck.

£25 Much of the wallpaper within Firbeck Infirmary has been conserved in-situ by fine art specialists. However, not all of the wallpaper can be recovered. A donation of £25 could buy a roll of replica wallpaper.

Vintage wallpaper from Firbeck under conservation

Carving of wood to produce a leg of a Windsor chair

£50 A £50 donation could go towards involving the community and local craftsmen in projects such as the building of the historical Windsor chairs to be displayed at The Workhouse for years to come.

Or enter your own amount

Why give to the National Trust

As a charity, we rely on the generosity of supporters to look after the historic buildings in our care. Not only do our supporters help to conserve beautiful homes and stunning gardens. They also ensure that future generations have places where they can be inspired by stories of the past, enjoy peace and time to reflect, and make memories to treasure. Your donation will go towards this project and other vital conservation work on our buildings at this special place. With your support, we can continue to protect the irreplaceable. For ever, for everyone.

Fundraising Regulator

Donate now to The Workhouse