Tyntesfield Orangery, North Somerset

 Built in 1897, the Orangery was designed to be the ornamental heart of Tyntesfield's kitchen garden complex. Sadly years of neglect caused the building to fall into serious disrepair and it has been adandoned for at least 20 years. 

The National Trust has embarked on a pioneering long-term partnership to restore Tyntesfield's Orangery. From the start the project had learning and craft skills development at its heart.

Through a successful partnership with City of Bath College and specialist contractor Nimbus Conservation Ltd we have achieved our ambitious first-year targets and have developed an innovative restoration project with a long-lasting legacy in craft training.

A 'skills pyramid' has provided a range of opportunities from a small number of intensive experiences for trainees, to a larger number of more accessible activities for a wider audience.

An opportunity for a 6-month full time skills trainee was funded through the HLF building bursary scheme, which aims to upskill the existing workforce and equip them with specialist skills for the heritage sector.

Working in partnership with City of Bath College the project gave a unique opportunity for Architectural Stone Conservation students to get live project experience working each week on site.

Existing craftsmen, students and professional groups were offered the opportunity to gain an insight into masonry and stone conservation.

The public and schools have been given the opportunity to see heritage craft skills in action on a day-to-day basis.