A NEW visitor admissions building at Old Wardour Castle has won an architectural award.

Salisbury Civic Society presented the accolade during an annual ceremony on Thursday, January 25, at the Methodist Church.

The awards recognise excellence in the quality of new buildings and the conservation of existing historic buildings in the wider Salisbury area.

Designed by Connolly Wellingham Architects and commissioned by English Heritage, the timber-clad entrance building has an olive green exterior and a grass roof.

Inside, the space houses an admissions till, integrated retail displays, an office and a bathroom. 

Opened in August 2022 and replacing an old, deteriorating structure on the site, it has dramatically enhanced the visitor experience on arrival at the castle.

Salisbury Journal: The award-winning new admissions centre at Old Wardour Castle

The design was a regional finalist in the prestigious Civic Trust Awards, the longest-running built environment awards scheme in Europe.

Sustainability was a vital consideration in the building's design as it included an air source heat pump, underfloor heating, wood fibre insulation and a green roof.

Joe Hyett, project lead at Connolly Wellingham Architects, said: "The project grew from early feasibility exercises to assess the practicalities of construction on such a remote and sensitive site.

"The final proposal represents a synthesis of historical reverence and contemporary design, and was executed carefully and considerately by all of those involved - as recognised by this award.

"The finished building stands as a testament to English Heritage's commitment to improving access to heritage and to low-impact, sustainable development."

Salisbury Journal: Old Wardour Castle is near Tisbury.Old Wardour Castle is near Tisbury. (Image: Freelancer)

Matt Bulford, head of historic properties at English Heritage, was "thrilled" the building has been recognised with the award.

He added: "Everyone involved, including from the architects to Ken Biggs Contractors and our structural engineer Scott Boote, worked tirelessly to ensure that it was designed and built to a high standard and in keeping with our aims as a charity.

"We look forward to giving a warm welcome to visitors there upon their arrival at the castle."

For more information on Old Wardour Castle, visit english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/old-wardour-castle.