THE Long Gallery bookshop at Hanbury Hall has recently reopened following restoration work – following long term damage done by burrowing rabbits.
Located in the formal gardens overlooking the Parterre, the Long Gallery was constructed at the same time as the Hall in the early 18th Century.
It contained Thomas Vernon’s study, which includes the oldest panelling on the site.
Hanbury’s Long Gallery is unusual in that it is external to the Hall – a long gallery was commonly a room that was part of the main house.
The stone steps have now been repaired following damage caused by rabbits burrowing over time.
Specialist building conservators, James Building Conservation Ltd removed the steps, timberwork landing, joists, and steel beams, and added a new concrete beam to support the new stone slabs above.
Damaged areas of the steps have been replaced, and the internal brickwork walls have been dismantled and rebuilt using bricks and York stone repurposed from other areas of the property.
Visitor operations and experience manager, Caroline Lawrence, said: “The Long Gallery bookshop is a much-loved area of Hanbury Hall and it’s a key part of many of our supporters visit.
“These repairs will allow our visitors to enjoy the Long Gallery for years to come and ensure this Grade II listed building is returned to its former glory.”
The bookshop raised a total of £19,483.97 last year, making it an extremely important income generator for the property.
These donations are invested back into Hanbury Hall, helping to fund important work to ensure it can be enjoyed for years to come.
