Museum
Museum conservation in Carmarthenshire
Though dating from the early 17thC, the palace was substantially rebuilt in Elizabethan style by Bishop Jenkinson (1825-40) but was mostly destroyed by a fire in 1902. It was rebuilt in 1903-7 by W D Caroe, architect, closely following the former plan and detail. The chapel was consecrated in 1925. It remained an episcopal residence until 1972, since when it has been converted to a museum.
Now in the ownership of the Carmarthen County Council, Acanthus Holden were commissioned in 2016 through a regional professional services Framework Contract, to carry out a detailed condition survey, leading to a major restoration of the exterior and interior in 20/21.
The discovery of the original coloured Caroe drawings in Swindon Library transformed our understanding of the extent and nature of the Caroe restoration. The building is now considered to be one of the most important Arts and Crafts buildings in S Wales.
Work carried out included the reslating of the main roof , the reconstruction of the chimneys as well as many windows and the restoration of the entrance porch. Acanthus Holden are currently managing the restoration of the Bishop’s Park and the conversion of the Dairy yard into a visitor Centre for the Tywigateway Trust. The total value of the building works is ca £2.0 mill.
- Year : 2021
- Client : Carmarthenshire County Council
- Status : Completed
- Location : Abergwilli, Carmarthenshire
