'Hidden Osborne' Tour
Friday 7th June 2024
Leader: Christopher Warleigh‒Lack
Group 1: 6.00-6.45pm Group 2: 7.00-7.45pm
Two groups were arranged to participate in this private tour as Christopher considered the smaller numbers in each group would have more space to move around in the rooms, and safety also for the Collection pieces.
Christopher started by outlining what the tour would involve (especially the number of stairs to the highest point) and the purpose which was to illustrate to the ‘Friends of Osborne’ members what he and his team were planning for the next 5‒10 years. Probably the largest of the changes would be the conversion of the Officers’ Convalescence areas. The furniture removal has already begun but will obviously take time before these areas are returned to rooms open to the public.
Christopher showed us a few of these rooms and then the Members were taken up onto the roof to have a look at the wonderful panoramic views and take photos, luckily it hadn’t been raining but it was a bit chilly!
We moved through to the sweeping staircase landing with the wonderful mural/painting and statues
From there Christopher pointed to where Queen Victoria’s lift was installed and pointed out the ropes. The lift company (OTIS) is still in business today.
Then down to the basement area which is undergoing much work. Christopher pointed to the very large area where the huge amount of wood used to be stored for the Estate.
Lastly, the Members were taken to a large room in the Basement with lots of storage items. Amongst them were the original wheelbarrows that had been made for Queen Victoria’s children. They had been rescued from the weather in order to preserve and protect them, they are now very fragile, and I think ideas will need to be discussed for the best way to display them. The wheelbarrows which are currently used are exact replicas.
FEEDBACK:
The chatter after the tours was very positive.
Christopher was thanked by the Members for his clear delivery of information and answering questions. His enthusiasm for this tour was infectious.
I just wanted to say how much we all enjoyed the fascinating hidden Osborne tour last night. It was wonderful - going out on the roof and climbing the tower were real highlights for us. (Member's feedback)
