Walton Hall Potting Sheds

Project Name

Walton Conservatory Range Heritage Interpretation

Project Type

FCC Community Action Fund

Our Funding

£41,974

Total Project Cost

£166,287

One of Warrington’s best-loved historical assets – the Walton Hall conservatory range – officially opens, following its £2m restoration.

It is the start of an exciting new era for the conservatories, which had fallen into disrepair for almost 25 years after closing to the public in September 1993.

A grant of £41,974 was awarded by FCC Communities Foundation to cover the costs of the recreation of a large ornamental pond and installing interpretation at the conservatories, including an audio trail where visitors can find out more about the history of the buildings.

Warrington Borough Council’s cabinet member for leisure and community, Cllr Tony Higgins, said: “The rejuvenation of the Walton Estate conservatories is a real success story for Warrington, and a fantastic example of how effective partnership work can protect, preserve and ultimately, bring new life to our most treasured historic assets.

“The project celebrates the heritage of the estate and will ensure lasting and sustainable benefits for local communities – creating opportunities for people to gain new skills and experiences, improve health and wellbeing, make social connections and contribute to a success story of rejuvenation, inclusiveness and innovation.

“Our glasshouses are about to shine once more as an iconic centrepiece for Walton Hall, as a high quality public venue for learning, development and volunteering - and as a historic treasure to be enjoyed for many years to come.”

The restoration of the Conservatories is entirely in keeping with the original, containing thousands of pieces of slender, elegant timber. During the renovation, each piece of this timber was removed and tagged before being assessed for rot. This original timber was then used internally with new timber being used for the external beams.

The original ironwork has been repaired and reused throughout the conservatories, and with over 90% of the bricks dating back to 1899-1910 in excellent condition, this project has been true to its original construction; guaranteeing the significant heritage history of the site for future generations.

You can find out more about the Conservatory Range Project and the rich cultural heritage of Walton Hall estate at waltonhallgardens.co.uk/the-gardens/glasshouses/