The historic conservatory at Leighton Hall has been given a new lease of life as a sustainable events venue.
Like many historic buildings, the materials used in the stunning Victorian conservatory were feeling their age, and the building had fallen into a state of disuse, due to the significant investment and specialist restoration expertise required.
However, Leighton Hall, home to the historic Gillow furniture-making dynasty, had a vision to not only restore the historic building, but use the latest sustainable building materials and techniques to create a calm space which maximises the benefits of their inspiring countryside location.
Thanks to a successful grant application bid to the Heritage Stimulus Fund - grant for programme of major works, the conservatory has been carefully restored back to its original design; a confection of gleaming glass and delicate white tracery. Thanks to Crosby Granger Architects and DEC Construction, both based in Kendal, modern techniques such as insulation made from recycled glass pebbles ensure the building performs at the highest sustainable, environmentally sound and future-proofed standards possible.
Estate Manager Lucy Arthurs, who still lives in the family home and manages the popular visitor attraction, says: “I remember my parents hosting plant fairs, exhibitions and events in the old conservatory, so it was terribly sad to see the state it had got into. In the current climate, restoring it has been a huge, and at times, a scary commitment, but the results have surpassed our hopes.
“We are already getting enquiries from companies and groups looking to have that meeting or celebration somewhere more interesting and inspiring than a bland office, or city centre hotel. We never take our glorious surroundings here for granted and it’s wonderful to think our conservatory will once again bring pleasure to so many people, from our regular visitors and tours to a whole new audience.”
Man arrested for possessing alcohol in breach of police order in Morecambe
Pensioner in her 80s seriously injured following collision near Lancaster
PHOTOS: Symphony orchestra in a pub launches Lancaster Music Festival 2026
"It's beyond a joke" Businesses speak out after youths run amok in Lancaster city centre
Morecambe police officers receive awards for hard work and dedication
LISTEN: Lancaster Music Festival 2026 set to begin
Hospital chaplain set to host remembrance service in Lancaster
Man arrested in Bolton-le-Sands on suspicion of indecent exposure and public order offences
Dates announced for Morecambe Promenade and Heysham Village fireworks displays
Plaque unveiled to honour groundbreaking sculptor of war memorial in Lancaster
Taxi driver suspended as part of licencing crackdown in Lancaster district
Closure announced of Lancaster city centre record store
KFC staff and Wombles join forces to clean up Morecambe Prom
Paramedic degree apprentices to be trained in Lancaster
Car flips onto roof following collision near Hornby
LISTEN: Jail and Bail returns to Lancaster as bosses to be locked up for hospice
Pioneering Morecambe school eco-garden bears fruit ahead of Apple Day
£800K appeal launched to save Lancaster Cathedral spire from collapse
Lancaster City Juniors score donation from housebuilder
