Quarry Bank Mill Glasshouse

Quarry Bank Mill Hothouse was in a severe state of neglect before it was acquired by the National Trust in 2010. A fundraising project was established by the National Trust, and money was secured from the National Lottery to fund its restoration.

The Glasshouse is a very early example of an iron-framed hothouse, built sometime in the early 1830s. The use of cast iron strengthened its structure, made it longer lasting and enabled a curved domed roof to be created.

Dorothea Restorations started work on site in October 2015. Work began by carefully dismantling the existing structure. All elements were tagged and numbered. Wherever possible, these pieces have been restored and repaired, ready to be reassembled. The rust and paint were removed and reprimed, ready for hand painting to achieve the authentic finish.

Cast iron glazing bars have been cast, using traditional green sand methods. A pattern is produced based on the original components, and a mould is made ready for casting.