Hanbury Cupola Repair
As you visit over the next few months you may notice some additional activity taking place at Hanbury Hall. The Cupola and its clock mechanism have reached a point where conservation work is needed.
Refurbishment of the Cupola
What’s happening here?
The Cupola and its clock mechanism have reached a point where conservation work is needed. Due to the location of the Cupola, it is particularly vulnerable to the weather. Water penetrating the historic fabric could cause damage to the building and its iconic paintings by Sir James Thornhill.
What will the work involve?
The existing paint will be carefully removed from the Cupola's timberwork to reveal the original timber beneath. Any deterioration will be assessed and repaired using appropriate conservation techniques. External works will include repairing the glazing and improving the lead detailing where the Cupola meets the roof, helping to prevent water ingress. Inside the Cupola, minor floor repairs will be carried out, alongside the removal, repair, servicing and reinstatement of the clock mechanism. The timberwork will then be fully redecorated to provide long term protection.
What does this mean for your visit?
The conservation work is focused on the roof area, so scaffolding will be in place around the house. It has been carefully positioned along the sides of the building to minimise the visual impact on your visit.
Once the work is complete, the Cupola will be restored to its full glory, ready to continue as a landmark feature and distinctive beacon in the Hanbury landscape for many years to come.
You may hear some noise whilst you ’re here. Don't worry, this is simply the conservation specialists carrying out their work.
Did You Know?
Cupolas are small domes used in architecture all over the world, with examples dating back many centuries. The word ‘ cupola comes from the Latin ’ cupula , meaning ’ small cup ’ or ’ little cup ’ . worry, this is simply the conservation specialists carrying out their work.
With thanks...
We would like to thank the Wyre Forest Centre of the National Trust for their kind donations, which have made the conservation work to the clock mechanism possible.
We also thank The Wolfson Foundation North Worcestershire Association of the National Trust and the for their significant funding towards this project.
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