Manx National Heritage (MNH) is pleased to announce the successful completion of essential roof improvement works at the Grove Museum, ensuring the continued preservation of this much-loved heritage site.
The project involved the installation of a new roof light alongside repairs to the existing flat roof. These improvements will enhance the building’s weatherproofing and help protect the historic interiors and collections housed within the Grove.
The work was carried out by skilled local tradespeople, including Gavin Edwards – GEAK Ltd, highlighting Manx National Heritage’s commitment to supporting the Island’s construction sector and using local expertise wherever possible.
In addition to the external works, internal repairs have also been completed, with conservation work undertaken by Grenaby Limeworks. Their expertise has helped ensure that repairs were carried out in keeping with the building’s historic character, prior to redecoration.
John-Paul Walker, Historic Buildings Architect for Manx National Heritage said:
“Maintaining our historic sites is vital to safeguarding the Isle of Man’s heritage for future generations. We are delighted to have completed these important works at the Grove Museum, working with talented local contractors to ensure the highest standards of care and conservation.
The Grove Museum is an important part of Manx National Heritage’s portfolio, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Victorian life on the Isle of Man. These improvements will support the site’s long-term sustainability and will help protect our precious collections”.
The Grove Museum opens on Saturday 28 March until Sunday 1 November 2026, open Saturday to Wednesday, 12pm – 4pm (last entry 3.30pm). For more information about the Grove Museum, visit www.manxnationalheritage.im
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Editor’s Notes
The Grove was the home of the Gibb family. In 1838, Duncan Gibb, a successful shipping merchant from Liverpool, visited the Isle of Man and bought Poplar Grove, a small cottage set in secluded grounds on the outskirts of Ramsey, as a summer retreat for his family. Duncan changed the small cottage into a country house surrounded by beautiful gardens and extensive farmland. He retired from shipping in 1862 and lived at the Grove until his death five years later.
In 1887 granddaughters Alice and Janet, moved from Port Erin to the Grove to live with Duncan’s widow and their two aunts. Taught by a governess and waited on by servants, the sisters lived at the Grove for nearly a century, in a house virtually unchanged since its Victorian heyday. In 1976 the Grove its contents, gardens, and land was bought by Manx National Heritage.
The house and its Victorian and Edwardian collectibles, secluded walled garden, Loaghtan sheep, and horse-drawn threshing mill offer a rare chance to step into life as it was for three-generations of the same family and their servants.