Image: Dover Castle (English Heritage)
As Principal Contractor, The Hub Transforms Dover Castle: Discover the Dramatic Story of the 1216 and 1217 Sieges Through Innovative Interpretation and Enabling Works
Over the past 12 months, The Hub has collaborated closely with English Heritage, Mather and Co and Avanti Architects, to deliver an ambitious restoration and interpretation project at the Scheduled Ancient Monument, Dover Castle. This extensive effort has reopened previously inaccessible areas, including the medieval tunnels and Georgian casemates, inviting visitors to explore spaces that have remained hidden for centuries.
Unlocking Hidden Treasures
Often referred to as the “Key to England,” Dover Castle is a symbol of centuries of military strategy and defence. Through The Hub’s meticulous work, areas once shrouded in mystery have been brought back to life, offering a fresh perspective on the castle’s pivotal role in the sieges of 1216 and 1217. The project has not only made these areas accessible but also highlighted the castle’s critical involvement in these historical events, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to delve deeper into England’s past.
Collaborative and Sensitive Restoration
Undertaking such a sensitive restoration required a deep understanding of the site’s history and listed status. The Hub’s collaboration with English Heritage’s Curator, exhibition designers, and Historic England was central to preserving the castle’s integrity while maximising visitor engagement.
To ensure the environments were appropriate for holding historic collections and preserving the castle’s fabric, The Hub conducted a detailed 3D mapping survey of the site. This survey developed an intricate 3D model of each area, enabling the team and sub-contractors to design bespoke exhibits that seamlessly integrated into the castle’s architecture. These models were instrumental in ensuring that all interventions were in harmony with the existing fabric, preserving its historical essence.
A key technical challenge was the installation of contemporary mechanical and electrical systems within the tunnels and casemates. The Hub worked alongside Historic England’s Conservation Team (including Canterbury Archaeological Trust) to carefully execute groundwork, ensuring that any hidden treasures buried beneath the castle remained undisturbed and all conservation regulations were upheld. For instance, the installation of illuminated handrails provided necessary lighting for visitor routes without compromising the site’s historical integrity. Additionally, projectors and audio systems were discreetly integrated to enhance the visitor experience, allowing them to imagine the lives of those who once inhabited Dover Castle.
Meticulous Craftsmanship in Restoration
The Hub’s commitment to quality craftsmanship is exemplified in the painstaking restoration of the Victorian parquet flooring. Each block was carefully labelled and removed, with moisture readings taken to assess the level of damp proofing required. The blocks were then kiln-dried, damp-proofed, and meticulously re-laid in their original positions. This process not only preserved the historical flooring but also ensured its durability for future generations.
Additionally, the team’s attention to detail was crucial in the restoration of the Soldier’s Barrack. Here, a scenic recreation of a soldier’s bed during the siege was developed, complete with oak bed frames, rolled mattresses, and period-accurate pillows and blankets. The exhibit went beyond mere replication; it was designed to evoke the daily life of soldiers, with beds arranged as they would have been when not in use, and recruitment materials authentically recreated to mirror the campaigns of the time. Detailed research informed every aspect of this exhibit, ensuring that it remained true to historical records while providing an immersive experience for visitors.
Innovative Interactive and Immersive Experiences
The Hub also integrated cutting-edge technology, creating a dynamic and interactive visitor experience. One of the most striking features is the castle’s illuminated model, mounted on a bespoke metal plinth clad in Valchromat. This model, accompanied by integrated AV, visually narrates the evolution of the castle and its grounds over time. The coordination of multiple contractors to deliver this sophisticated display highlights The Hub’s capability in managing complex, multidisciplinary projects.
In the tunnels and casemates, visitors are greeted with a blend of digital storytelling, augmented reality, sound, light, and tactile experiences. The “Repulsing the Enemy” interactive crossbow installation allows visitors to engage directly with history, measuring their speed, accuracy, and skill as they aim and fire at electronic targets within a scenic display. This installation not only adds a hands-on element to the exhibit but also immerses visitors in the life of a crossbowman during the siege.
Educational and Social Impact
The “Dover Castle Under Siege” project, which opened on 22nd July, has quickly become a success with visitors. Beyond the physical restoration, the project included a comprehensive social value package aimed at benefiting the local community.
The Hub offered bespoke career packages for educational institutions across Kent, including Hard Hat Tours for 50 young people from local schools and colleges. These tours provided insights into the complexities of delivering an exhibition fit-out, highlighting various career entry routes and roles within the heritage and construction sectors.
Additionally, The Hub conducted four Focus Sessions with careers advisors across the region, offering one-on-one mentoring on apprenticeships, career paths, key industry information, and guidance on CV writing and interview techniques. This initiative not only enhanced the project’s community impact but also helped to inspire and guide the next generation of heritage and construction professionals.
A Lasting Legacy
The transformation of Dover Castle through the “Under Siege” project stands as a testament to The Hub’s expertise in managing complex heritage projects. By blending meticulous craftsmanship with innovative technology, The Hub has created an immersive experience that brings Dover Castle’s hidden history to life. Visitors can now explore the castle’s rich past in ways that are both educational and entertaining, ensuring that the legacy of Dover Castle is preserved and celebrated for years to come.
