March
Restoring the Glasshouse at Wray
After years of exposure to the elements, the beautiful glasshouse at Wray is receiving some much-needed care. The National Trust’s Specialist Craft Centre (SCC) for joinery and carpentry, now based in Altrincham, is leading the conservation of one of the most damaged window units.
This intricate work began in 2024, when the first window was carefully removed and brought to the SCC workshop. Led by experienced craftsperson Stephen Holt, and supported by apprentice Paddy Boyle, the team is using traditional joinery techniques to retain as much original timber as possible. Severely decayed sections are being replaced with specially selected timber, spliced seamlessly into the existing frame.
The ironmongery, including pivot hinges and stays, was either missing or heavily corroded. These are now being recreated by a blacksmith at Fountains Abbey, where our masonry team is also based.
This project is part of a broader mission to preserve heritage skills. The SCC, one of ten across the country, plays a vital role in training the next generation of craftspeople. Apprentices Billy Burns and Paddy Boyle are gaining hands-on experience, both in the workshop and on-site, helping to ensure these skills live on.
The glasshouse window is now back in place welcoming light, air, and hopefully soon, plants once more. Some of the remaining windows will also be going to the SCC through the year for repair.

