Dorset Group visit to Winterborne Clenston

Event details

Friday 28 March 2025, 2.30pm

Join the Dorset Group on a visit to Manor Farm Barn, a Grade I listed mid-sixteenth century building. We’ll be going up the scaffold to view the roof structure ahead of major repair works.

Manor Farm Barn dates from the mid sixteenth century. It is notable for its vernacular architecture and its group value with the surrounding buildings. It also has an outstanding example of a highly decorative, late fifteenth century roof structure, that is believed to have been reused, possibly from Milton Abbey. The barn is listed Grade I.

Water penetration over several decades has resulted in severe decay to the roof structure. A partial collapse led to a supporting scaffold and temporary roof being inserted. Currently minor repair works are in progress on the buttresses and external walls, with major works to the barn including the roof structure being considered and scheduled.

There is limited access via the scaffolding to the roof structure to view the roof, the decay and the structural issues relating to its repair.

You will need 

You will need sturdy footwear and a torch. 

Please also bring a hi-vis jacket and hard hat.

How to get there

Manor Farm Barn 
Whatcombe Lane
Dorset DT 11 0NR

From Blandford Forum, Dorset head south west on A354 towards Dorchester – turn right at Winterborne Whitechurch onto Whatcombe Lane – the barn in on the right hand side just past the church.

Accessibility

This is a visit to a working site, so access to scaffolding is involved and you will expect to adhere to the site induction instructions at all times.

Anything we can do to make this event more accessible for you? Please email membership@spab.org.uk.

We may take photos or videos at this event to be used in future promotion, including in print and online.

All bookings are subject to our Terms and Conditions. 

Photo credit: Manor Farm Barn - Sam Wheeler