Manx National Heritage conservation project safeguards Castle Rushen’s Derby House

Black and White Aerial Image of Castle Rushen and Derby House

Manx National Heritage has commenced a new phase of conservation work at Castle Rushen, with specialist repairs now underway at Derby House to protect its historic fabric and preserve this important part of the Island’s heritage.

The six-month project will focus on repairing and conserving the building, using traditional materials and specialist techniques to retain its historic character while ensuring it remains part of Castle Rushen’s story for generations to come.

The conservation works will include repointing the south elevation of Derby House and rebuilding an area of Georgian brick infill, using conservation techniques including lime mortar, appropriate to the historic fabric of the building. Scaffolding will be erected within the castle to facilitate the work.

Further works will include repairs to the parapet gutter leadwork, reinforcement of window lintels and repairs to the building’s traditional timber windows. Inside Derby House, the staircase leading to Castle Rushen’s Registry Office will also be repaired, alongside work to restore its decorative finishes.

The project is being delivered by local contractor Grenaby Limeworks, with completion scheduled for March 2027.

John-Paul Walker, Historic Buildings Architect for Manx National Heritage, said:

“Castle Rushen is one of the Isle of Man’s most important historic landmarks, and caring for its buildings requires a commitment to preserving the historic materials and craftsmanship that make them so special. This project will address important repairs to Derby House, helping to protect its historic character and ensuring it can continue to be appreciated by future generations.

Castle Rushen will close to visitors for the winter season on 1 November, with conservation work at Derby House continuing throughout the winter months. The six-month project will conclude ahead of the castle’s spring reopening on 23 March 2027.

This project demonstrates Manx National Heritage’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding Castle Rushen and preserving its heritage for future generations.

ENDS

Editor’s Notes:

Derby House was begun in the 1580s and built to provide private accommodation within Castle Rushen for the Earl of Derby during his visits to the Island. Originally, the building comprised two storeys, with service quarters on the ground floor and the earl’s private chambers on the first floor. A substantial central chimney stack served the ground-floor kitchen and provided heat for the chambers above.

During the 1640s, amid the English Civil War, Derby House was modernised and extended to accommodate James Stanley, the 7th Earl of Derby and Lord of Man, and his family. These alterations included the addition of a second floor overlooking the harbour and a third floor within the roof space, illuminated by dormer windows that have since been removed.

Following the Island’s Revestment in 1765, Derby House was repurposed to accommodate offices supporting the law court in the castle gatehouse. It also served as the Island’s legal library and the Rolls Office, remaining in this role until it was handed over to the Isle of Man Government in 1929. Until recently, the building continued to serve as a Registry Office.

Media contact:

Lynsey Clague, Communications Manager

Manx National Heritage

T: 44 (0)1624 648032

E: Lynsey.Clague@mnh.im