Sir Gavin Williamson visited The Orangery in Ingestre to learn more about the historical Temple Follie and how its volunteers have transformed it into a centre of history and community.
Sir Gavin met with The Friends of Ingestre Orangery to discuss the charity’s aims for the site, and to learn about its fascinating history. He joined volunteers, trustees, and local charities on a tour of the building where he learned about its beginnings in the hands of the Chetwynd-Talbot family in the 1840s, then its later restoration in the 21st century.
When restoration began in 2012 using money from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the original goal was to prevent the building from turning to ruin. Today, the project has expanded greatly, and the site now hosts historic tours, walks, yoga classes, and entertainment.
The organisation is keen to work with local community groups and volunteers to connect with locals and provide them a public space for leisure. There are approximately 2.5 acres of buildings, gardens, and woodlands to explore. Within the grounds lies St Mary’s Church, attributed to the work of Sir Christopher Wren, the architect of the legendary St Paul’s Cathedral.
Sir Gavin said: “I was honoured to be invited to tour Ingestre Orangery which is also home to beautiful woodlands and gardens. I know that the restoration project has been far more successful than the Trust originally imagined, as they’ve transformed a building in danger of ruin into a venue fit for special occasions.”
