Play. Discover. Explore

1. Play. Discover. Explore

2. The Barn was built in 1342 by Thomas de Bradeston, a commoner who became wealthy as a Captain in the Hundred Years’ War against the French. We estimate around 80 oaks were used in the construction. Plans show that the Barn was originally 11 bays in length, although now only 7 bays survive in their complete form. Originally, it was one of England’s great medieval barns. Barn History The original 14th Century roof structure remains largely intact — a fine example of a raised-cruck construction. In this method the cruck blades spring from timber baulks set two thirds of the way up the walls. The walls were constructed from local Pennant sandstone, bound together with earth mortar.

3. The Barn (a Grade II Listed Building) was privately owned but fell into disrepair as these photographs from the 1930s show. Urgent repair work was needed due to its high risk status. The Barn Site

4. 2003 Restoration In 1998 the Barn was purchased by South Gloucestershire Council, and was renovated to its current state. This restoration project was completed in 2003 with the Barn’s original 14th Century roof joints reinstated.

5. Current works are part of a £1.7m project. The Trust were awarded a Heritage Fund grant of £936,600 to support this redevelopment. Upgrading the Barn’s existing facilities will ensure that the site is able to sustain itself in the future. Current Renovations The main changes include the old cow byres becoming artisan studios occupied by local businesses. The dilapidated West Barn will house seminar rooms, office space, kitchen, and toilet facilities. And a new interpretation gallery will stretch along the South range.

6. The South and North facades of the Barn Site Layout Entry to the Barn will be from the South rather than the North route, with visitor parking on the South side.

7. The Build So Far Building works are on track to finish in Spring 2020. Here are a few photos from behind the scenes…

8. Top left and below – the West Barn, first gutted, then with mezzanine floor going in. Bottom left – the cow byres.

9. Our Vision Our vision for Winterbourne Medieval Barn is to create a multi-purpose rural heritage venue that will celebrate the history and heritage of this extraordinary site and its environment, making them accessible to people of all ages. Past and present will come together through a range of memorable and diverse experiences and opportunities to participate.

10. The Future: Learning Schools School groups will be able to visit the Barn for tailor made workshops to learn about life in the past, rural crafts, and the local environment. Adult Learning Craft workshops and the Barn lecture series offer a chance for local people to find out more about local heritage and wildlife, and to learn new skills.

11. The Future: Community Hub Events Our flagship community events Orchard Harvest Day and the Medieval Fayre will return along with an exciting and diverse programme of music, theatre, and entertainment throughout the year. Families We will host a range of affordable family activities throughout the year so that all ages can enjoy spending time together exploring new things.

12. The Future: Weddings and Hires Wedding Celebrations A unique and beautiful setting for a magical day, the Barn will be available for wedding receptions throughout the year. A Barn wedding truly is a memorable occasion for the happy couple and their guests. Corporate Hires With our improved facilities and addition of brand new seminar rooms, the Barn is the perfect location for meetings, team building days, and conferences. We’re also available for film shoots, parties, and everything in between!

13. Get Involved Volunteering Fancy volunteering at the Barn? There are all sorts of ways you could join in. Our team plan and run events, take care of the garden and grounds, and deliver our learning events, among other things! Speak to one of the team if you’d like to know more. Membership Become a Member of the Barn. By donating £5 per year, our Members show their continued support and help to maintain this historic site of national importance.

14. @winterbournemedievalbarn Keep In Touch @winterbournemedievalbarn @WB_MedievalBarn www.winterbournebarn.org.uk