The restoration of Wightwick Manor, a Grade I listed Arts & Crafts jewel, has been recognised with a prestigious conservation award.

The Victorian Society’s Birmingham & West Midlands Group has announced its eleventh annual Conservation Award made to the National Trust for their project at Wightwick Manor.

The winner was announced, at a ceremony at 12 midday on Saturday 14th February 2026.

The 2025 award recognises the conservation of Grade I Wightwick Manor owned by the National Trust. The house is one of England’s most complete surviving examples of a late Victorian Arts & Crafts domestic architecture.

Built in 1887, and extended in 1893, the manor house was designed by Midlands architect Edward Ould for Theodore and Flora Mander.

Before the conservation began, several areas of Wightwick Manor were showing the effects of age, weathering and earlier repairs. Parts of the timber frame and external plaster had begun to fail, with decay and movement that required investigation. Some of the historic rainwater goods were no longer performing well, leading to damp issues in a few places.

Sections of the building's exterior were vulnerable and needed intervention to prevent further deterioration. A pre-project survey confirmed that without attention, these issues would continue to compromise both the fabric of the building and the long term preservation of its nationally significant interiors.

Stephen Hartland, Regional Chairman, West Midlands Group of the Victorian Society, said:

“I am absolutely delighted that Wightwick Manor has been selected as the winner of the Victorian Society Birmingham & West Midlands Conservation Award. The judging panel was unanimous in its decision, reflecting the exceptionally high regard in which this project was held. From the outset, it was clear that the work demonstrated an outstanding commitment to conservation principles, underpinned by a deep understanding of the building’s history and significance. The quality of craftsmanship and attention to detail throughout set this project apart as truly exemplary.”

Rachael Parry, Building Surveyor and Project Manager of ‘The Big MEND’, National Trust said:

“The team is thrilled to receive this recognition for what has been a truly collaborative and rewarding project. The achievement reflects the dedication and expertise of so many people – from the Arts Council for their vital funding support, to our highly skilled conservation contractors and knowledgeable architect, and our experienced, passionate staff and volunteers.”