Carlisle Castle Keep

Carlisle, North West

The conservation of Carlisle Castle’s 900-year-old keep stands as a shining example of how modern techniques, historical fidelity, and community engagement can converge to preserve an iconic heritage site. This project delicately balances respecting a building’s historical fabric and ensuring its future resilience, all while enriching its cultural and educational value for the community. At the heart of the project is a sophisticated understanding of the castle’s challenges, particularly the moisture ingress that threatened both its structure and its invaluable 15th-century prisoner carvings. The use of advanced survey techniques such as thermal imaging and environmental monitoring provided an in-depth understanding of the keep’s condition without invasive measures, safeguarding its integrity while informing an effective restoration strategy. This meticulous approach underscores a commitment to non-destructive innovation in historic preservation. The comprehensive restoration of the keep’s roof and wall cappings is a triumph of traditional craftsmanship blended with modern techniques. Replacing cementitious mortars with historically appropriate lime mortars not only ensured compatibility with the original materials but also addressed long-term structural vulnerabilities. The selection of breathable and flexible lime mortars highlights a profound respect for the castle’s historical construction methods while integrating modern insights into material science. Furthermore, innovative solutions like the concealed permeable drainage system and lead weathering effectively mitigate future risks of moisture ingress and thermal fatigue. One of the project’s standout achievements is the meticulous conservation of the 15th-century prisoner carvings. By cleaning and restoring these intricate works of art, the team not only preserved these rare artefacts but also enhanced their visibility and accessibility for visitors and scholars. The protective envelope designed around the carvings during nearby structural repairs demonstrated an exemplary focus on their preservation. Heritage skills days and behind-the-scenes tours offered an educational opportunity, fostering appreciation for traditional crafts and the intricacies of historic conservation. Informative signage and progress boards kept the public involved, ensuring transparency and cultivating a deeper connection to the site’s history. By preserving its medieval legacy and enhancing its accessibility, the restoration enriches both the local community and the broader public, ensuring the castle continues to be a source of education, wonder, and pride for generations to come.

Judges’ Comments:

“The project’s holistic philosophy - addressing both immediate repairs and long-term sustainability - ensures that Carlisle Castle Keep remains a resilient and inspiring monument.