June 2026 update
Entering the final phase
We're now on the home stretch.
After 16 months of dedicated work, the Bramall Hall roof restoration is entering its final phase. Since our last update, Phase 2 has been successfully completed and the temporary roof over this section has now been removed, revealing the newly restored structure beneath. The project remains on course for completion in early autumn 2026.
Work on Phase 3 is now well underway. This is the most sensitive stage of the project, both because of its timing within the bat roosting season and because it covers the Solar, home to Bramall Hall’s rare and significant Tudor wall paintings.
Back on track: conserving the Solar
Working with historic buildings often brings unexpected challenges, even with the most careful planning.
Around 12 weeks ago, when roof slates were removed above the Solar, we uncovered a previously hidden issue affecting the plaster ceiling and sections of wall above the frieze beam. Movement within the historic plaster required immediate specialist attention before roofing work could continue.
We worked closely with our conservation partners at Hirst Conservation, who were brought in to stabilise the area. Using careful and precise techniques, they secured the plaster ceiling in place, ensuring its long-term preservation while allowing the roof works to proceed safely.
Thanks to their expertise and efficiency, this additional work has now been completed ahead of schedule. Roofing works in this section have resumed, and we're pleased to confirm that the overall project timeline is back on track.
The bats return
The entire restoration has been carefully planned around the needs of Bramall Hall’s resident bat colonies, including pipistrelle and brown long-eared bats.
Our contractors worked to complete key elements of Phase 3 before 1 May, marking the start of the roosting season. Measures have been in place throughout the project to support the bats, including maintaining access points, using a bat-safe breathable roofing membrane, installing bat boxes in the surrounding parkland, and incorporating discreet bat access features into the restored roof.
We're delighted to report that these efforts have been successful. As the attic space was vacated for works, the bats returned on schedule, a reassuring sign that the Hall continues to provide a suitable and welcoming habitat.
Night-vision cameras have been installed in the attic to monitor their activity, and a short film capturing their return is now available.
We've also created a second film exploring the ‘bat attic’, a rarely seen space that, until this project, had remained inaccessible even to staff.
Meet the Restorers: Sunday 28 June
We're thrilled to invite you to a special ‘Meet the Restorers’ day at Bramall Hall on 28 June, 11am to 4pm. Admission is free.
This free event offers a unique opportunity to meet the highly skilled team behind the restoration project. Visitors will be able to speak directly with architects, quantity surveyors, lead workers, stonemasons, carpenters, conservators, curators, ecologists and even a bee specialist.
This is a rare chance to explore the craftsmanship, knowledge and the scale of the collaboration involved in preserving Bramall Hall for future generations.
To find out more and to reserve your place, visit our event page.
Looking ahead: further investment in Bramall Hall
Alongside the roof restoration, we're pleased to share further good news.
Bramall Hall has been awarded an additional £1 million through the MEND (Round 4) funding programme, administered by Arts Council England. This highly competitive funding supports essential conservation work in non-national museums and galleries.
This investment will enable us to address further critical maintenance needs across the Hall, helping to secure the building and its collections for years to come. We're extremely grateful for this support and what it will make possible for Bramall Hall’s future.
Find out more in our news article.
