Set within the Western Lake District National Park, Muncaster Castle is the seat of the Pennington family, and has been since 1208 when their residence was confirmed at the castle through a Royal Charter from King John. It is a Grade I listed castle, and the gardens are listed Grade II*. The present castle is the result of development and re-imagining by various Lord Muncasters, most notably in the 18th and 19th century, firstly through the Gothic romantic phase, then Victorian rustication.
Crosby Granger Architects is engaged as the Castle and Estate architects, researching, investigating, surveying, specifying and over-seeing works. Continual condition surveys of the different elements of the Castle itself, as well as over 100 Estate buildings allows us to assess the fabric, diagnose issues and specify urgent repairs for the in-house conservation maintenance team. The wider landscape is also considered and reviewed, including access and visitor flow.
The solid granite masonry construction of the castle and most of the estate buildings causes many issues, mainly due to the rigidity and lack of porosity of the stone. Historically the castle was rendered, but has since been stripped, allowing the vulnerable mortar joints to be exposed. As granite is not porous, it is essential that a ‘fat lime’ mortar is used at it is having to work doubly as hard to absorb and facilitate the migration of the water out to the surface. This is but one of the issues faced on the castle, which we are steadily managing through the use of hot-lime mortars.
As well as the on-going survey and essential repair works, there are also specific projects being discussed which will enhance the visitor experience at Muncaster. One of the most recent feasibility studies carried out is the potential repair of the North Service Yard and disused North Tower and its conversion and development. two options were considered; self catering apartments, or a textile conservation workshop and museum space. In conjunction with the client, we have prepared submissions for various different Grants and funding bodies for the later option of workshop and museum.
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.
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.
Appointed to work on the renowned St Oswald's Church in Grasmere, set within the idyllic village in the Lake District, Crosby Granger Architects is undertaking sensitive conservation efforts. Our focus includes preserving the church's historic features and ensuring its structural integrity, allowing this iconic place of worship to continue serving the community and visitors alike.
Restoration at No.1 Long Houses prioritizes the retention of historic integrity while addressing necessary repairs. Traditional materials and skilled craftsmanship ensure interventions align with the building’s original construction methods. By maintaining the building’s historic character while ensuring its continued functionality, we reinforce the importance of thoughtful, conservation-led repair work.
Crosby Granger Architects have restored Low House Farm, a Grade II listed property comprising a house, bank barn, and long-house with outbuildings, located southwest of Littletown in the Newlands Valley, Cumbria. Our work focuses on preserving the historic fabric of these structures, employing traditional materials and techniques to ensure their longevity and continued agricultural use.
Crosby Granger Architects was engaged in the conservation and restoration of Morland Hall, a historic estate nestled in the Eden Valley. Our approach involves meticulous preservation of original architectural elements, such as stone masonry and timber structures, while integrating modern amenities discreetly. This ensures the hall's historical integrity is maintained, providing a harmonious blend of heritage and contemporary comfort.
We have been appointed architects for Muncaster Castle, and conducted a series of ongoing conservation work to protect this Grade I listed historic site. Our research, condition surveys, and restoration efforts ensure the longevity of this architectural treasure. This project highlights our expertise in heritage stewardship, maintaining the castle’s legacy while enhancing its visitor experience.
Crosby Granger Architects led the restoration of Thornthwaite Hall, a historic residence in the Lake District National Park. Our work includes addressing structural issues, conserving original features, re-rendering and updating its modest facilities to meet contemporary standards. By carefully balancing preservation with modernization, we ensure the hall's historical character is retained while enhancing its functionality for future use.
Last week at Holker Hall...
It was great to bring together landowners, estate managers and rural professionals to discuss how Whole Estate Planning can support long-term resilience through sustainable growth, environmental stewardship and meaningful community engagement.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, including our fellow speakers, panel members and attendees, for sharing valuable insights and contributing to some thought-provoking discussions around Biodiversity Net Gain, estate strategy and the evolving opportunities facing rural estates.
Thank you to @holkerhall for hosting us in such a beautiful setting.
Jun 9
We’re delighted to share that we have been shortlisted for the 2026 RTPI North West Awards in the Excellence in Plan Making Practice category for the Higham Whole Estate Plan!
Developed through a close partnership between Crosby Granger Architects and the Lake District National Park Authority, the plan sets out a long-term vision for a 1,170-acre rural estate. Bringing together landscape, heritage, biodiversity and rural enterprise, the WEP demonstrates how strategic planning can support resilient rural communities while safeguarding landscapes and enhancing what makes them special.
The project demonstrates the value of collaborative, landscape-scale planning in helping to shape rural places - identifying opportunities for sustainable change and lasting community benefit.
We’re proud to see this work recognised and would like to thank everyone who contributed to the project.
Jun 4
Creating community engagement for an estate 🤝
Community engagement is one of the three core pillars of sustainable estate management. Our Whole Estate Plan ensures the estate is aligned with local aspirations.
We begin by listening to the community to understand their needs, concerns, and hopes for the area. This helps us identify opportunities to enhance connectivity, create employment and improve visitor access, all while respecting the character and tranquillity of the Lake District.
By aligning estate plans with community priorities, Higham can support a thriving local economy while ensuring a sense pride among residents.
#WholeEstatePlan #LandOwners #LakeDistrictNationalPark
May 29
