Scaffolding being removed from Peel Castle

Conservation work on historic site enters next phase

Scaffolding covering parts of Peel Castle has started being removed following conservation works.

A specialist team has been working to restore a section of the 1km long curtain wall.

Manx National Heritage says the completion of the latest phase of the work is a significant milestone and another important step in safeguarding one of the Isle of Man’s most iconic historic sites.

Funding was provided through a ‘capital projects’ loan to MNH from the Isle of Man Government.

The organisation says, as the scaffolding comes down, visitors can once again fully appreciate the striking profile of the landmark on St Patrick’s Isle. 

Peel Castle is due to reopen to visitors from the end of March. MNH says it will share further updates as the conservation programme progresses.

Manx National Heritage says: "A key feature of this phase has been the installation of new Manx slate copings, supplied by A.V. Craine Limited from Cringle Quarry, ensuring the use of high-quality, locally sourced traditional materials. 

"The slate copings provide essential protection to the masonry beneath while maintaining the authentic appearance and historic integrity of the fortress.

"Cringle Quarry is typically used to quarry aggregate rather than building stone. However, A.V. Crane worked closely with Manx National Heritage to identify suitable seams within the quarry face. These were carefully extracted and laid out to enable Manx National Heritage to individually select the appropriate stones, which were then bagged and delivered to Peel Castle. 

"Further strengthening the project’s connection to the Island’s heritage, salvaged sandstone generously gifted by the Dean of Peel Cathedral has been incorporated into the restoration works. The careful reuse of this historic material has enabled sensitive repairs and reflects the collaborative community spirit that underpins the conservation of Peel Castle.

"Traditional craft skills have been central throughout the works. Specialist contractors Grenaby Limeworks carried out traditional lime pointing to consolidate and protect the ancient masonry. The use of lime mortar rather than modern cement ensures the stonework is able to transfer moisture caught inside the wall and is resilient in the harsh marine environment. In doing so, the project has not only conserved historic fabric but also supported the continuation of traditional building skills on the Isle of Man."

John Paul Walker, Historic Buildings Architect for Manx National Heritage says: “Manx National Heritage is immensely proud to have completed the conservation of Peel Castle’s Causeway Wall. This milestone forms part of a wider programme to conserve the Castle’s Curtain Wall, one of the most ambitious conservation projects undertaken by our charity. Together, these works safeguard an irreplaceable element of the Isle of Man’s historic landscape, helping to protect the castle for generations to come.

"It has been particularly rewarding to champion local expertise throughout the project through collaborating closely with Manx contractors, sourcing high-quality materials on the Island, and sustainably reusing stone generously gifted by the Dean of Peel Cathedral.

"We extend our thanks to everyone who has contributed to the success of this vital conservation effort, from the skilled team working on site to our suppliers and many supporters, whose continued commitment to our charity makes projects like this possible”.

The charity's conservation efforts at Peel Castle will continue, with the next phase of conservation works already underway.  

This will focus on reconsolidating the copings on the Barbican wall, again using locally sourced Manx slate and salvaged sandstone to ensure long-term protection and authenticity.