We at King John’s House and Museum would like to express our huge appreciation for the £1000 donation kindly sent to us by the Romsey and District Society. We will put it to very good use!
Although the museum remains closed, a lot has been going on behind the scenes. Work on the conservation and restoration of the fire-damaged Hall is proceeding in the capable hands of our conservation architects, Caroes Ltd. Excitingly, the 3D laser scan was completed before Christmas and Caroes are now using that to draw up a full conservation programme. Various contractors have been appointed and Historic England plaster conservators have helped with advice on the conservation of the medieval plaster and graffiti.
The café is a great success, with an increasing range of home-made soups, cakes and scones (the cheese scones are especially good) and is a vital income stream for King John’s House until we can reopen. We are looking forward to spring, when we can start using the wonderful historic garden again for customers to sit out in while enjoying their cream teas and ice-creams.
We have a new donation point in the café to allow customers to give what they can to support us. We are also continuing to hold a range of events, from Conservation Tours to Valentine’s Day teas – do keep an eye on the website and social media to book for these.
We are delighted to welcome a new assistant manager to the team – the hugely capable and experienced Ben Coleman. Ben comes from a museum and press background and has been volunteering with King John’s House since October 2024 while completing his MA in Cultural Heritage and Resource Management at the University of Winchester, which he was awarded with distinction. He will be a huge asset to the team.
Looking ahead, 2027 will mark 100 years since the discovery of King John’s House and we hope to mark the occasion with a special exhibition and other celebrations.
Finally, please do join the King John’s House Friends – either scan the bar code below or pop into the café to pick up a leaflet.
Freddie Law Turner
Chair of Trustees
