The National Trust is set to undertake a significant restoration project at Coughton Court near Alcester in Warwickshire.

The £3.3 million refurbishment of the sixteenth century property is due to start in September 2023 as part of a four phase wider project over the next two years that will see key sections of the roof restored as well as repairs and improvements across the fabric of the building.

The ‘Through the Roof’ conservation project is the biggest investment the National Trust has ever made at Coughton Court and is being funded by the charity’s members, supporters and donors with grant funding donated by The Wolfson Foundation.

Chief Executive of the Wolfson Foundation Paul Ramsbottom said: “We are delighted to be part of the project to restore and renovate Coughton Court as part of our long-standing partnership with the National Trust.

“The work taking place will ensure visitors can explore the stories and significance of this place for years to come.”

Although the property has remained largely intact after more than 600 years of turbulent history, including the Civil War, the repair work will focus on rectifying years of deterioration to the roof and prevent flooding that could damage the historic collection.

Historic materials will be re-used and conserved where possible whilst work will also be carried out on the external fabric of the building to restore it to its former glory.

The house will still be accessible during its annual opening season whilst the work takes place with visitors set to be given the opportunity to view the roof work first-hand during the summer of 2024.

General manager Gurminder Kenth said: “We are excited to be working on the ‘Through the Roof’ project at Coughton Court which will help safeguard Coughton and its highly significant collection.

“Any major project will impact how the site is presented but this will be a rare opportunity to experience a behind-the-scenes look at Coughton.

“Conservation is a key value in the work that we do, and these works are important to ensure we secure Coughton’s legacy for generations to come.”