We have recently started work on reroofing the old stable block at Bisham Abbey near Marlow with clay plain tiles. This project is going to take a team of three experienced roofers 19 weeks to complete. We are working in conjunction with Oxley Conservation, historic buildings consultancy, as this building has a rich history that needs to be respected and restored with sensitivity.
Bisham Abbey history
Bisham Abbey is a Grade I listed manor house in Buckinghamshire built in the 13th century as a community house for the Knights Templar. Over the years it underwent extensive rebuilding and alterations. It was home to many illustrious historical figures, including Queen Elizabeth of the Scots, William Montacute, the 1st Earl of Salisbury, Anne of Cleves and Lady Elizabeth Russel. Lady Russel was a well-educated poet and noblewoman, reputed to have a foul temper and whose ghost is now believed to be haunting the manor. Her ghost has reportable been seen tearing sheets from the beds, throwing objects, sobbing uncontrollably and repeatedly washing her hands. And the reason for her posthumous wonderings? The story goes that she “accidentally” locked one of her children in the attic and forgot about him when her good friend, Queen Elizabeth I, summoned her to court. Let’s hope the ghost of Lady Russel doesn’t take a disliking to the manor house roof being replaced, or our team could be in a lot of trouble.
![](https://www.westcountrytiling.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Bisham-Abbey.png)
![](https://www.westcountrytiling.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Bisham-Abbey-stables.png)
Clay plain tiles
Before we could start work, a full canopy scaffold was erected. Although the building is currently empty, this style of scaffolding is required in order to keep the interior dry as we work. The old stables usually houses students attending the Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre.
This reroofing project will involve the removal of the old clay plain tiles, the installation of new Steico insulation, extensive timber repairs and reroofing using beautiful handmade clay plain tiles supplied by Tudor.
Why choose West Country Tiling
For over 35 years, West Country Tiling has been proudly reroofing listed buildings across the South West of England. Our highly skilled roofers bring their vast knowledge of traditional roofing to every project.
If you are looking for a team of expert roofing craftsmen, the team at West Country Tiling can help. Please contact us for a quote by calling 01373 462 224 or by emailing us on info@westcountrytiling.com.