Local & Community History Month 2026

May marks Local & Community History Month, organised by the Historical Association. The month celebrates local heritage, raising awareness of the stories, places, and people that shape our communities, and encouraging everyone to explore and engage with the history around them.

In light of this, we are spotlighting some important heritage projects we have worked on within our local community:

Museum of Farnham, Farnham

History

A Grade I listed building constructed in 1718 for local hop merchant John Thorne. The property was acquired by the local authority in 1961 and converted into the Museum of Farnham.

Our Work

Comprehensive restoration works, including extensive brickwork repairs, timber sash window repairs, and the replacement of deteriorated roof timbers. The upper sections of the front elevation were also carefully recorded, dismantled, and rebuilt, incorporating the parapet, decorative cornice, ashlar brickwork, and second-floor window arches.

The Link Community Hub, Haslemere

History

A Grade II listed building dating from 1900, located adjacent to the historic St Bartholomew's Church. The building was designed by Cancellor and Hill of Winchester as a school.

Our Work

Extensive renovation works were carried out, including the formation of a new upper floor within a reconfigured roof structure. This provides a reception area and a series of flexible meeting rooms, while the ground floor accommodates a kitchen, office, and a large hall for community use and hire.

Watts Gallery, Compton

History

A Grade II listed purpose-built public gallery dedicated to the work of George Frederic Watts. Constructed in 1904, the building is set within an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Our Work

Refurbishment and extension works were undertaken to the tearoom area, with redundant spaces upgraded to provide additional capacity and overspill facilities. A new timber-framed toilet block was constructed, and the main gallery shop and tearoom were fully re-roofed.

Semaphore Tower, Chatley Heath

History

A Grade II* listed structure built in 1822 as part of the Admiralty semaphore chain, which operated between 1822 and 1847. It is the last surviving semaphore station in Britain.

Our Work

Careful restoration of the tower was carried out following fire damage, working closely with the Council Conservation Officer to plan and deliver the works in line with conservation requirements.

Painshill Park, Cobham

History

A Grade II listed cast-iron waterwheel, reconstructed around 1835 after William Cooper acquired the estate in 1832. The wheel measures 36 feet in diameter and 2 feet 9 inches in width and is located at Serpentine Lake.

Our Work

Targeted restoration works were undertaken to preserve the structure. Following completion, further commissions included structural remedial works to the Grotto and refurbishment of several cottages across the estate.

We take pride in preserving and enhancing buildings of historic and cultural significance, recognising their value to communities and national identity. Our skilled craftsmen, supported by specialist subcontractors, bring extensive experience in delivering complex heritage refurbishments. With a sensitive and informed approach, we carefully balance conservation with modern requirements, ensuring these treasured landmarks continue to inspire and serve future generations.