£150,000 appeal to restore Powis Castle's grand staircase

With the restoration of the castle's east front complete, the National Trust is now turning its attention to one of the buildings most striking features.

The grand staircase is closed to the public because it is not strong enough to support the 150,000 visitors each year.

National Trust general manager for Powis Castle, Emma Thompson, said: We are doing amazing conservation work to restore the castle to how it would have appeared in earlier times.

"Experts have looked at the structure of the staircase and it appears it's not securely attached to the wall."

The work is set to cost in excess of £150,000 which isn't covered by the National Trust membership money.

Mrs Thompson added: "Ornately carved and surrounded by exceptional works by the likes of Antonio Verrio and his pupil Gerard Lanscroon, the staircase doesn't look like it needs repairing. However, it's not safe to walk on.

"We want visitors to be able to walk beyond the east front up to the half landing and possibly even all the way to the upper level of the castle, something we’ve been unable to share with visitors since the building was donated to us.

"Donations, however large or small, will help to save this exquisite piece of history so that future visitors can experience even more of this unique Welsh treasure.”

To donate or find out more about our grand staircase appeal visit nationaltrust.org.uk/powis-staircase-appeal, call 0344 800 1895 or or donate £3 by texting ‘POWIS’ to 70123.