Manx National Heritage is delighted to announce the completion of the latest phase of conservation works at Peel Castle, with scaffolding now being removed to reveal the carefully restored Causeway Wall, one section of the nearly 1km long curtain wall. This significant milestone represents another important step in safeguarding one of the Isle of Man’s most iconic historic sites against the challenges of time and its exposed coastal setting.
A key feature of this phase has been the installation of new Manx slate copings, supplied by A.V. Craine Limited from Cringle Quarry, ensuring the use of high-quality, locally sourced traditional materials. The slate copings provide essential protection to the masonry beneath while maintaining the authentic appearance and historic integrity of the fortress.
Cringle Quarry is typically used to quarry aggregate rather than building stone. However, A.V. Crane worked closely with Manx National Heritage to identify suitable seams within the quarry face. These were carefully extracted and laid out to enable Manx National Heritage to individually select the appropriate stones, which were then bagged and delivered to Peel Castle. Further strengthening the project’s connection to the Island’s heritage, salvaged sandstone generously gifted by the Dean of Peel Cathedral has been incorporated into the restoration works. The careful reuse of this historic material has enabled sensitive repairs and reflects the collaborative community spirit that underpins the conservation of Peel Castle.
Traditional craft skills have been central throughout the works. Specialist contractors Grenaby Limeworks carried out traditional lime pointing to consolidate and protect the ancient masonry. The use of lime mortar rather than modern cement ensures the stonework is able to transfer moisture caught inside the wall and is resilient in the harsh marine environment. In doing so, the project has not only conserved historic fabric but also supported the continuation of traditional building skills on the Isle of Man.
John Paul Walker, Historic Buildings Architect for Manx National Heritage said:
“Manx National Heritage is immensely proud to have completed the conservation of Peel Castle’s Causeway Wall. This milestone forms part of a wider programme to conserve the Castle’s Curtain Wall, one of the most ambitious conservation projects undertaken by our charity. Together, these works safeguard an irreplaceable element of the Isle of Man’s historic landscape, helping to protect the castle for generations to come.
It has been particularly rewarding to champion local expertise throughout the project through collaborating closely with Manx contractors, sourcing high-quality materials on the Island, and sustainably reusing stone generously gifted by the Dean of Peel Cathedral.
We extend our thanks to everyone who has contributed to the success of this vital conservation effort, from the skilled team working on site to our suppliers and many supporters, whose continued commitment to our charity makes projects like this possible”.
- MNH Historic Buildings Architect John Paul Walker, pictured with the Very Revd Nigel Godfrey, Dean of Peel Cathedral, pictured at Peel Castle Causeway Wall.
The project has been funded through a ‘capital projects’ loan to Manx National Heritage from Isle of Man Government, demonstrating a shared commitment to protecting the Island’s heritage assets. As a registered charity, Manx National Heritage relies on the continued support of visitors, members, donors and partners to care for and conserve the Isle of Man’s historic places, landscapes and collections. Every visit, membership and donation plays a vital role in sustaining this important work for future generations.
Looking ahead, conservation efforts by the charity will continue, with the next phase of conservation works already underway. This will focus on reconsolidating the copings on the Barbican wall, again using locally sourced Manx slate and salvaged sandstone to ensure long-term protection and authenticity.
As the scaffolding comes down, visitors can once again fully appreciate the striking profile of Peel Castle on St Patrick’s Isle.
Manx National Heritage looks forward to welcoming visitors to experience Peel Castle from the end of March and to sharing further updates as this essential conservation programme progresses.
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