Crosby Granger Architects were awarded the project to carry out the analytical architectural investigation, costed condition survey and feasibility study for development of the fortified house of Burneside Hall South Lakeland and the Ruinous Gleaston Castle, Cumbria.
The project’s aim was to carry out full historical assessments of the sites in order to better understand the significance and their social and political history within the region between the 14th and 16th Century. Full condition surveys and structural surveys were also carried out, which included costed recommendations for repair.
The project also required Crosby Granger Architects to appraise the repair costs and produce a feasibility study for the appropriate conservation and if appropriate, the sustainable reuse of each site in order to ensure their removal from the Heritage at Risk Register. Options appraisals for both sites were carried out, with costed plans put forward in a final recommendation report to assist with grant funding.
The feasibility study of the sites explored the future management and development, taking into account:
• Historic, architectural and archaeological significance
• Repair and development costs
• Funding options
• Planning constraints/opportunities
Crosby Granger are now working directly for the owners to review the schemes and look towards applying for grants to assist with essential repairs initially, followed by major proposals for redevelopment.
DISCIPLINES COVERED IN COMMISSION:
• Site evaluation and historic building assessments, including condition and structural surveys,
• Assessment of historic, architectural and archaeological significance,
• Undertaking options appraisals and feasibility studies for the sympathetic repair and conservation of the buildings,
• Identification of funding streams,
• Stakeholder engagement and developing proposals that enable the sustainable management of each site.
We’re proud to share that our Whole Estate Plan for Higham Estate was endorsed by the Lake District National Park Authority on 10 June 2025. This makes Higham only the second estate in Cumbria to achieve WEP endorsement!
Working alongside the new owners and in partnership with the National Park Authority, we created a holistic, long-term strategy for the next 20+ years - one that balances the estate’s need for economic resilience with the Park’s duty to safeguard this exceptional landscape.
This endorsement marks a significant step toward a future where Higham Estate enhances the landscape, supports local people and businesses, and contributes to the wider aims of the National Park.
#WholeEstatePlan #LakeDistrictNationalPark #HighamEstate
May 13
Join us at Holker Hall for an insightful event exploring how Whole Estate Planning is helping rural estates build long-term resilience through sustainable growth, environmental stewardship and meaningful community engagement.
Chris and Luke from Crosby Granger Architects will share our holistic approach to estate planning, alongside insights from CSX Carbon on the financial and environmental opportunities presented by Biodiversity Net Gain strategies.
The day will also include networking opportunities, lunch, an overview of the Holker Estate and a panel Q&A featuring representatives from the Lake District National Park Authority.
Whether you are a landowner, estate manager or rural professional, this event offers valuable insight into the future of sustainable estate management.
Spaces are limited, both CLA members and non-members are welcome.
📍 Holker Hall, Cark-in-Cartmel
📅 Tuesday 2 June 2026
🕙 10am–2pm
🎟 £35 + VAT
Link in our bio for more info & to book your place!
#RuralBusiness #EstateManagement #BiodiversityNetGain #LandManagement #Sustainability #WholeEstatePlanning #CLA
May 13
Introducing Higham Estate 🌿
Nestled in one of the world’s most admired landscapes, Higham Estate spans 1,170 acres in the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Now under new ownership after over 100 years, Higham is entering a bold new chapter.
Last year our team were entrusted to create a Whole Estate Plan, a 20-year vision to secure a sustainable, thriving future for the estate, its people and the environment. And it`s finally time to share the results!
This is more than a plan - it’s a commitment to preserve heritage, enhance biodiversity, support the local economy and create inspiring experiences for visitors.
Stay tuned as we share how Higham Estate is shaping the future of sustainable land management in the Lake District.
#LandManagement #StrategicPlanning #EstateOwners
May 12
Architectural analysis, condition surveys, and feasibility studies at Burneside Hall guide a conservation strategy for this fortified medieval house. Understanding its unique structural challenges allows for informed decision-making regarding repairs and potential adaptive reuse. Carefully planned conservation work ensures the hall remains a significant and sustainable heritage asset for the future.
We were appointed to carry out the historical research, assessment, and strategic management review, and develop and publish a Conservation Management Plan for Furness Abbey and Piel Castle, both in the Guardianship of English Heritage.
Crosby Granger Architects is honored to have led the award-winning restoration of Eshton Hall, a Grade II* listed country house in North Yorkshire. Our work addressed previous substandard repairs, focusing on roof and guttering systems to prevent water ingress and structural damage. This project exemplifies our commitment to preserving historic estates through sensitive, sustainable interventions.
