Historic house gets deep clean ahead of re-opening - The Stratford Observer

Historic house gets deep clean ahead of re-opening

Stratford Editorial 17th Feb, 2018 Updated: 17th Feb, 2018   0

CHARLECOTE Park is looking its best for visitors.

The riverside location of the historic house means it faces a constant battle against mould, so each winter a team at the

National Trust cared for property spends up to eight weeks carrying out a deep clean.

The team of four staff and 20 volunteers – in protective suits and masks – have been busy cleaning the frames of the paintings, panelling, armoury and taxidermy.




This year they have also tackled the mould which has attacked the golden silk wall hangings in the drawing room. The mould has been carefully vacuumed off using a special vacuum to help prevent mould spores spreading back into the room.

A head for heights has also been handy, as some of the team had to scale scaffolding to clean the ceilings and tops of paintings.


Dust and cobwebs may seem a harmless household nuisance to most, but if left in an historic property like Charlecote, can cause damage and discolouration to the 16th century house’s many treasures, as well as providing a breeding ground for household pests.

Plans are also in the pipeline to install a conservation heating system to help in the fight against the mould.

House steward Victoria Ive said they were looking forward to welcoming visitors, who played a vital role in the on-going care of the property.

“Visits to the property are crucial in helping us as a charity to carry out work to preserve the collection, from helping to fund specialist equipment to booking in experts who carry out remedial work. Each visit counts.”

The property re-opens today (Saturday)

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/charlecote-park for further details.

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