The Governors of Abbot’s Hospital have drawn up a major programme of conservation
and upgrading of facilities. Once completed, this will ensure the well-being of our residents
and the continuity of this heritage. It will also enable the wider community to enjoy better
access to a unique and historic building.

Upper Court is the original Jacobean quadrangle, containing 7 flats, the Master’s Lodgings,
the Chapel and other public rooms. General improvements are needed including the
installation of ground floor toilets in some flats.

The Gatehouse includes the Presence Chamber, used by George Abbot when staying
at the Hospital and the Monmouth Room (originally The Treasury) where the Duke
of Monmouth was held on his way to the Tower of London in 1685. Work to the northwest
tower staircase, the roof and parapet has been completed but the main doors still require
attention. It is also hoped to secure funding to refurbish the Monmouth Room as an
exhibition centre telling the story of the Hospital.

The Chapel is still used regularly throughout the week. The superb stained glass windows are
in need of careful attention and protection. General redecoration and new lighting are needed.

The Guesten Hall is one of two principal public rooms. Oak panelled and floored, beneath
a barrel-vaulted ceiling, it is approached via a wide Jacobean staircase. Although recently redecorated and improved by the installation of new lighting, work remains to be done on
the floor and panelling.

The second principal room is on the ground floor and was the original dining room.
Additional work on flooring and lighting will allow it to be used for private functions,
in addition to its regular community use by residents.

Abbot’s Hospital contains many original tables, chairs and doors from the Jacobean
period. The clock is older still. All these artefacts require sensitive conservation.

The 1980s flats, behind a Jacobean façade and built in the former gardens, are in
need of major upgrading. Each flat requires a new kitchen, bathroom (often in the
form of a walk-in shower), electrical and central heating work, a new boiler and
redecoration and re-carpeting.