Next phase of restoration starts at Highcliffe Castle

The next phase of restoration work at Highcliffe Castle in Dorset will start at the end of the month. The eighteen month building project will see one wing fully restored as well as its historic kitchen. The castle will also welcome back original pieces of furniture which are currently being held in storage by the V&A Museum. A new conservation studio will be created allowing an internationally important collection of stained glass to be restored and displayed. New staircases and floors are being added and two lifts are also being installed to make the whole castle accessible to all.

Cllr Sally Derham-Wilkes from Christchurch Borough Council, said: "Highcliffe Castle really is a spectacular building and it's fantastic we are able to carry out these works to restore it to its former glory. We must thank the public in advance for their understanding and patience while the building works take place and we aim to keep disruption to a minimum. I'm sure people will enjoy keeping up to date with how the project is progressing and once complete it will look fabulous."

There will be some closure at the Castle while the works take place. It's been funded with a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund as well as additional funding from the Country Houses Foundation, The Pilgrim Trust and Wolfson.