Old Court

This mammoth, £42 million project has been divided into four phases. Phase 1a, which was completed in 2019, involved the remodelling of the Porters’ Lodge to provide a better experience for members of Clare and visitors alike. Phase 1b, which finished in the summer of 2023, was the most complex part of the project, involving the re-roofing of the north range (Staircase H), the construction of the new River Room and North Range extension, the installation of a lift and other accessibility enhancements, and the restoration and redecoration of the Hall and Chapel. The River Room and north range extension – which provide wonderful modern facilities, seamlessly integrated with the historic fabric – have attracted critical acclaim in the national and architectural press and have won a major construction award.

Work is now underway on Phases IIa and IIb, comprising the re-roofing, re-wiring and replacement of services in the east, south and west ranges (Staircases A to G). This is not a simple task. These three ranges are the oldest parts of Old Court, dating back to the 1630s, and are exposed to the prevailing wind, hence bearing the full force of the weather for nearly 400 years. When the roof of the south-east corner (nearest King’s College Chapel) was uncovered earlier this year, it was discovered that some 70% of the roof timbers were rotten; rot has also been found in some of the oak A-frames holding up the main roof structure. Each replacement timber has to be individually drawn and replaced (there was no standardisation in the 17th century!) to the satisfaction of Historic England, because of Old Court’s Grade 1 listed status. Progress on Phases IIa and IIb is therefore slower than originally hoped, and will extend until the autumn of 2025.