The “Big 24” Quilts Exhibition 2024

We’re 5 weeks into the rethatching of Blackthorpe Barn already!

Climbing up and down the ladders high above the courtyard, @dodsonbrosthatchers are continuing their amazing work, carefully layering bundles of straw entirely by hand.

Thatching is a craft that has been used to protect buildings for thousands of years. A finished thatched roof can be around 30–40cm thick, providing wonderful natural insulation and helping to keep buildings cool in summer and warm in winter.

But did you know that the part of the thatch that actually sheds the rainwater is surprisingly thin? It is, in fact, the steepness of the slope of the roof that is critical for the rain to simply run down quickly, dropping from one stalk of thatch to the next. The water only has time to penetrate about 2-5cm into the roof, meaning that most of the layers stay dry, even in heavy downpours.

It’s remarkable to watch such a traditional skill in action especially, for a change, while the sun was shining. Let’s hope we get more good weather through March!

#roughamestate #thatching #mastercraftsman #burystedmunds ...

We’re recruiting for a part-time Barista at Roots Café…

If you are looking for a part-time role that offers a friendly environment in a beautiful rural setting, we are hiring. Located just outside Bury St. Edmunds, the role involves crafting quality coffee and providing excellent service to our visitors.

We are looking for someone with at least one year of Barista experience who is reliable and takes pride in their work. In return, we offer competitive rates, employee discounts and a supportive team culture in one of the most scenic locations in the area.

If you are interested in joining a friendly team and spending some time weekends at the Estate, we would love to hear from you. Visit www.roughamestate.com/welcome for more information. Link in bio.

#Vacancy #Cafevacancy #roughamestate ...

Isn’t the Barn looking amazing already?

Four weeks into the rethatching of Blackthorpe Barn, the transformation is becoming beautifully visible. Skilled thatchers @dodsonbrosthatchers are patiently working their way across the roof, with some hair-raising climbs, layering and shaping the natural materials entirely by hand as you can see here.

@thecleftwoodcompany has delivered cleft oak battens to replace the rotten parts that were recently uncovered (see the Week 3 update). These battens are split along the grain to provide superior strength and longevity.

We are grateful to these skilled craftsmen who use traditional methods to maintain and protect rural buildings like our Barn, preserving it for years to come.
Keep your eyes peeled for the next exciting update!

#roughamestate #burystedmunds #thatching #skilledcraftsmanship ...

The weather is changing and so is the shop!

Have you visited us yet? If not, it’s worth a trip. Whether you’re looking for a gift or simply to treat yourself, we’re open 7 days a week.

#roughamestate #blackthorpebarn #roughamestateshop ...

Mother’s Day is just around the corner and if you’re looking for something thoughtful and a little different, the Rougham Estate Shop is full of lovely ideas.

Our latest reel gives you a glimpse of some of our favourites, with a special focus on dried flowers, delicate paper blooms, beautiful vases and cards to make your gift extra personal. These are gifts that last far beyond the day itself with no wilting, just simple, lasting beauty for the home.

You can choose one of our ready-made arrangements, create your own selection of dried or paper stems or pick up a beautiful vase if she prefers fresh flowers at home. Don’t forget your card to make your gift complete.

Pop into the Shop at Rougham Estate and take a look for yourself. We’re open daily and happy to help you find just the right gift.

#roughamestate #mothersday #mothersdaygifts ...