The Long Barn before restoration
At Wentworth Castle Gardens restoration never rests…
In 2002, after 50 years of divided ownership, neglect and under-funding, many of the buildings and designed landscape features on the Wentworth Castle estate had fallen into a state of serious disrepair and dereliction and some of its most valuable treasures were in danger of being lost forever.
After years of careful planning, in 2005 the Wentworth Castle and Stainborough Park Heritage Trust began work on a £16m programme to restore and develop this magnificent estate. The majority of the funding was provided by the Heritage Lottery Fund. Other funding and advice was received from English Heritage, Barnsley Council and Yorkshire Forward.
Home Farm courtyard (the back of the visitor centre) after restoration
In 2007, Wentworth Castle Gardens opened as a visitor attraction. The revenue generated from visitors and the continuing support of major grant funding bodies provides for the continuing phased restoration of our unique monuments, gardens and parkland.
Restorations completed since opening include the Sun Monument, the Rotunda and the Pillared Barn. In addition, miles of drystone walled Haha have also been lovingly restored to help bring back a flavour of an 18th century landscape.