Alford Manor House

Funding will create a permanent function space as well as the relocation and improvement of the tearoom and kitchen.

£2.1 Million

Machinery Store

Weddings & Event Space

Energy Efficiency

Project Overview

Alford Manor House, constructed in 1611, holds the distinction of being the largest thatched manor house in the country. The historic gem has hosted numerous memorable events over the years. In 2023, the Manor House received £2.1 million in funding. This substantial investment will be used to create a permanent function space, relocate and enhance the tearoom and kitchen, and free up space for improved museum displays, enriching the visitor experience and preserving its historical legacy.

The Journey So Far

July 2024
Planning submitted.
October 2024
Planning committee.
October 2024
Full and listed building consent approval obtained.
November 2024
Technical design stage 4 complete.

Project Goals

£2.1 million will fund a comprehensive set of construction and renovation projects aimed at enriching the visitor experience and meticulously preserving the historical legacy of the site.

Event Space

The funding will be utilised to create a cutting-edge permanent event space, replacing the temporary marquee.

New Kitchen

A new kitchen will be developed in the Coach House to cater primarily to the needs of the permanent event space.

Solar Energy

Solar panels will be installed on all newly constructed roofs and on the Hackett Barn to harness sustainable energy.

Machinery Store

Development of a machinery store in between the Hackett Barn and Workshop base, providing a secure space for heavy machinery and vintage agricultural equipment.

Workshop

The existing workshop will be upgraded with a new mezzanine floor, chimney in the volunteer area, and an extended open store for cart shed equipment.

Ground Renovations

Installation of an Air Source Heat Pump enclosure to support the new function space, alongside cost-effective paving around new buildings and the car park.

Proposed Plans for…

Function Room & Kitchen (West Elevation)

Repair Works

Existing cobbles repaired.

Display

Agricultural heritage display.

New Kitchen

The new catering kitchen will predominantly service the function space but can also be used to supplement the existing kitchen facilities within the Manor House if required.

Ventilation

Re-utilisation of one of the existing roof lights for ventilation.

Glazing

Large openings in-filled with glazing to improve lighting in the function room.

Function Room & Kitchen (East Elevation)

Ramp

Accessible ramp up to higher level.

Courtyard

New lower level courtyard.

Bar

Bar featuring shutters to serve the fuction room.

Grass

Grass to slope down.

Doors

Two sets of double doors to allow access in and out of the function room.

What this will mean for the building and the local community

These three culturally significant sites in Alford and Spilsby are vitally important to their communities as well as the wider district. I am delighted that government funding will give a new lease of life and offer for visitors to come to Alford and Spilsby and enjoy these facilities.

Cllr Graham MarshPortfolio Holder for Community Safety, Leisure and Culture and Carbon Reduction at ELDC

When completed, the new building will not only contribute to the financial viability of the Manor House but, with the repair of Alford Windmill and improvements on the windmill site, will make Alford a centre of heritage tourism for East Lindsey.

Richard QuantrellAlford Manor House Trustee

There are so many hardworking people committed to these cultural facilities and I am so delighted the Government has recognised this and is supporting us to help keep these facilities thriving.

Cllr Adam GristPortfolio Holder for Market Towns and Rural Economy (ELDC)

I am very pleased that this incredible collaboration between East Lindsey District Council, Lincolnshire County Council, Alford Town Council, Alford & District Civic Trust and Alford Windmill Trust will ensure that these historic buildings are regenerated for future generations to enjoy.

Richard QuantrellAlford Manor House Trustee