Drayton Lodge, Norfolk
This miniature castle is a rare example of a medieval brick building, at a time when most were built of stone or timber. It was constructed in 1437 by Sir John Fastolf, a soldier, who was the inspiration for Shakespeare's character Falstaff. The building was a 'pleasance', a small house originally two storeys high, with towers at each corner. The south elevation once looked over the valley towards the River Wensum, lands owned by Sir John and later, the Paston family. It was partly demolished in 1465 and may have been used as a Warrener's lodge.
3D photographic model
Construction drawing, showing the scope and location of the repairs
The damaged vault about to fall from the eastern tower. Remains of the original plaster still exist, but were loose and in danger of being lost.
Fractured brickwork, an unstable arch and old cement repairs
New bricks were specially made for the structural works
Reconstructed arches secure the structure of the east tower
Piecing in new brick facings where the walls were becoming undermined due to erosion.
Interior of tower, showing the render which has been 'stuck' back to the brickwork using a soft lime putty carefully inserted around all the edges.
Drayton Lodge
