Blenheim Palace has once again partnered up with The Cumbria Clock Company on vital internal works and repairs to its Turret Clock, one of the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site’s most prominent features.
The clock usually keeps good time, but due to its age has needed more work in recent months. The Cumbria Clock Company has dismantled the clock’s internal mechanism and has taken it to their workshop to remove built up dust and dirt that would eventually have caused unnecessary wear. To ensure its preservation for years to come, repairs on the bells and pulleys will also be undertaken during the eight-week project.
Last year, the clock faces were repainted and regilded, and in addition, specialists at The Cumbria Clock Company worked on the hands of the clock.
Isabelle Thom, Deputy Collections Manager at Blenheim Palace, said: “Whilst our visitors may not notice any external changes as all of this work on the Turret Clock is internal and will not impact its appearance, it’s still important to recognise why the clock is not working at the moment. This project is one of the many important restoration initiatives that goes on behind the scenes at Britain’s Greatest Palace.”
The large Turret Clock in the tower, which overlooks the Great Courtyard and East Courtyard, was the work of renowned clockmaker Langley Bradley in 1710, a year after he completed another masterpiece at St Paul’s Cathedral. Sadly, the St Paul’s Cathedral clock was removed in the late 1890s, but many of its features can be seen in this timepiece, making it an important and rare example of Bradley’s workmanship.
From urgent roof repairs to long-term conservation, every ticket to Blenheim Palace purchased ensures that the buildings, timepieces, artworks, and landscapes are cared for with the expertise and attention they deserve.
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.blenheimpalace.com
