Canterbury Cathedral

Two decades of craft, conservation, and continuity

Introduction

For over 25 years, we have supported the Surveyor to the Fabric at Canterbury Cathedral—one of the most famous religious sites in the world. As one of the oldest Christian structures in the UK and the Mother Church of the Church of England and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral holds both profound spiritual significance and architectural brilliance.

Our lengthy partnership has spanned a wide array of works, from essential cyclical maintenance to transformative conservation initiatives. We have helped to oversee the meticulous restoration of the Corona, shrine of Thomas Becket; the complete refurbishment of the Grade I-listed Choir House and Grade II*-listed Old Palace; installation of underfloor heating in the nave and renewal of the lead roof over the southeast transept; and a new lift installation to improve accessibility within the cathedral precincts.

Christchurch Gate

Most recently, we have completed the restoration of Christchurch Gate, a Grade I-listed building built around 1520. It forms the main entrance to the cathedral precincts and is one of Canterbury’s most celebrated landmarks. The scaffolding came down at the end of 2022, after a five-year restoration, revealing the renewed polychromy in all its brightly coloured glory.

Great South Window

Our work at Canterbury Cathedral exemplifies cutting-edge conservation, combining advanced monitoring technology with traditional craftsmanship. A key focus has been the restoration of the Great South Window, which houses some of the world’s most significant 12th-century stained glass, including the most complete Genealogy of Christ in medieval art.

Following substantial structural failure, we led a detailed investigative programme to guide the necessary repairs. As part of the solution, a hand-forged replica ferramenta is being crafted by the cathedral’s blacksmith to support the historic glass panels and accommodate new protective glazing—allowing historic fabric to safely bear modern interventions.

Heritage Skills

In addition to repairs and new developments—including a sensitive extension behind the Grade I-listed Choir House and the faithful restoration of historic features at the Old Palace—we actively support Canterbury Cathedral’s skilled in-house team of masons, glaziers, carpenters, and plumbers. These craftspeople play a vital role in the ongoing care of the cathedral and its precincts, ensuring work is carried out with deep understanding of traditional techniques. By collaborating closely with this team, we help to preserve and pass on essential heritage skills, safeguarding both the fabric of the cathedral and the craftsmanship that has sustained it for centuries.

The cathedral often plays host to Purcell’s in-house Conservation School, our annual introduction to building conservation. The hands-on, site based programme is open to all members of staff eager to develop their skills and deepen their understanding of historic buildings and conservation approaches.

Read about the conservation school