News

Folkestone's historic Vinery now has new seating following a complete structural renovation by Shepway District Council thanks to a grant from The Heritage Lottery Fund.

The Vinery can be found on Madeira Walk, below The Leas and to the west of the bandstand. The mix of benches and single chairs positioned to the front of the Vinery gives stunning views over the Coastal Park and across the English Channel to France. The final stage of the project will be to replant vines to the rear of the structure during the next planting period.

"I am delighted that yet another milestone in restoring our fabulous coastal park is complete," said Cllr Carol Waters, Cabinet Member for Community Regeneration. "It is a stunning setting and I hope that local people and visitors will come and enjoy the views. This is just one of the ways we are working towards the regeneration of the area, making it a better place for everyone to live, work and visit."

The Vinery was built in the 1930s by the Borough Council and was a popular, sheltered spot with glorious views over the English Channel and the Coastal Park. However, over the years vandalism and the weather took its toll and the structure, particularly the main beams that supported the original glazed roof, were in need of total renovation.

The renovation of the Vinery is part of the second phase of the Coastal Park restoration. It involved the careful dismantling of the original timber roof beams, which were re-erected replacing any damaged or rotten pieces. The screens have been restored to their original condition, however the glazed roof, which has been missing for some time, has not been re-instated. The new roof grid will now form a loggia to support rambling vines so people can enjoy shelter provided by the vines while admiring the view.