In the 1990s the refectory of St Nicholas Priory was rescued from near dereliction. After the glory of the Tudor Era, it became poor tenements during the Victorian Era, and later had educational use. Exeter Historic Building’s Trust, working with renowned conservation architect Niall Phillips, restored (as found) this wing. Funding was secured to turn the building into furnished accommodation, with a meeting room in the roof space. During the conversion much conservation research was carried out on the discoveries made beneath the plaster work during this time.
This tour and talk will describe in detail this project, going into specific specialist work such as the analysis of the timber dating and the painting conservation. We will also be discussing the building work, from the history of the tenements to the restoration to its current restored state today.
Directions
St Nicholas Priory is on Mint Lane with walking access from Fore Street or Bartholomew Street West.
The nearest car park is Mary Arches Street, which is a five-minute walk. Exeter Central railway station is a ten-minute walk. The bus station is a 15-minute walk with many buses stopping on the High Street which is ten minutes away.
Access
Unfortunately, due to the nature of this historic building, there is no wheelchair access for our upstairs rooms.
Facilities
Our outdoor toilet block can be made available on request.
If you have any questions or concerns about your visit please email [email protected]