Conserving the Cotswolds

Doughton Manor

You may have seen James Mackintosh recently on BBC Countryfile, alongside conservation specialist Nicola Dyer and master lime craftsman Francis Stacey, discussing the historic lime render and harling at Doughton Manor.

The programme explored a fascinating question about the conservation of the Cotswolds:

What if one of the best responses to climate change isn't a new technology, but the rediscovery of an old one?

For generations, many Cotswold buildings have been celebrated for their exposed stone façades. Yet research is increasingly revealing that many were once protected by lime render and harling; breathable, sacrificial coatings that shielded buildings from the weather whilst allowing them to perform as intended.

Over time, much of this protective layer was removed. As our climate becomes wetter and more unpredictable, understanding how these buildings were originally designed to cope with the elements has never felt more relevant and the importance of raising awareness.

At Doughton Manor, the owners commitment to the buildings long-term stewardship has made this work possible. We have been privileged to work alongside skilled craftspeople such as Francis Stacey. Together, we are exploring how traditional materials and skills can help safeguard our historic buildings for future generations.

The Countryfile feature highlighted the importance of preserving not only historic buildings, but also the knowledge, evidence and craftsmanship that underpin them. We are particularly grateful to Nicola Dyer for her work exploring the history of lime render and harling in the Cotswolds, helping to deepen our understanding of how these remarkable buildings were originally protected from the elements.

Sometimes progress is not about inventing something new.

Sometimes it is about remembering what we once knew.

If you haven't seen the episode, it's well worth watching on BBC iPlayer.

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