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50 Years of the National Trust Textile Conservation Studio

Celebrate 50 years of the National Trust's Textile Conservation Studio. Discover how a volunteer initiative grew into a professional studio conserving historic textiles from National Trust properties nationwide.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event

Join us in The Loft at Blickling Estate to celebrate 50 years of the National Trust's Textile Conservation Studio, an internationally recognised conservation service that has cared for some of the Trust's most treasured textile collections for half a century.

This special exhibition traces the remarkable evolution of the Studio, from its beginnings as a small volunteer-led initiative under the direction of Pamela Clabburn to the professional conservation team it is today. Over five decades, the Studio has developed into a centre of excellence, conserving historic textiles from National Trust properties across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The exhibition highlights key milestones in the Studio's history, showcasing how conservation methods, technologies and professional practices have developed over time. Visitors will gain a unique insight into the challenges of preserving historic textiles and the skilled work that ensures these collections can continue to be enjoyed by future generations. There will be opportunities to meet the conservators involved in caring for the Trust's collections and find out the skills and dedication it takes to become a conservator.

No need to book, free exhibition. Part of Heritage Open Days.

Times

The basics

Accessibility

Please note this takes place upstairs in The Loft and there is no lift available.

Meeting point

The Loft at Blickling Estate is located upstairs in the East Wing.

Contact info

Textile Conservation Studio

Upcoming events

Journeys – Global Textiles from the Karun Thakar Collection 

Journeys – Global Textiles from the Karun Thakar Collection brings stories of textiles, trade and craftsmanship to life at Blickling Estate this year.

Event summary

on
15 Sep to 1 Nov 2026
at 11:00 to 16:00+ 47 other dates or times

Living History performances 

Join the Living History Team under the stretch tent in the garden for costumed interpretation.

Event summary

on
16 Sep to 30 Sep 2026
at 12:00 to 15:00+ 2 other dates or times

Blickling Estate Showcase: Discover, Explore, Connect 

Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes at Blickling Estate? Come and meet the teams who work there at Aylsham Town Hall.

Event summary

on
17 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 16:00

Social Walks 

Get outdoors and join one of our social walks each season, led by one of our walk leaders.

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on
18 Sep to 18 Dec 2026
at 10:00 to 11:30+ 13 other dates or times