Residents invited to contribute to Ilkley Manor House time capsule
Residents and visitors are being invited to share their favourite memories of Ilkley Manor House and thoughts of the future, for a time capsule which is to be hidden inside the building’s new roof.
As essential conservation work on the roof of the Grade I listed building enters its final stages ahead of completion in December, the project team will place the sealed capsule under the stone slates, offering a snapshot of life in 2026 to future generations.
It is expected to remain undisturbed for up to 100 years, when the roof may need further work undertaken. Anyone wishing to contribute a memory, anecdote, or prediction for the future can drop in to Ilkley Manor House this weekend, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 November, between 11am and 4pm.
Selected submissions will be placed alongside photographs of Ilkley and Bradford, alongside details and photos of the project team, and copies of current newspapers – including those featuring this announcement.
Roger Tilbrook, Acting Joint Chair of Ilkley Manor House Trust, said: “The capsule is a fantastic idea. We plan to include information to entertain and inform whoever discovers it, and we would love for the local community to be at the heart of what we leave behind. Whether it is a personal memory of visiting the house or a thought on what Ilkley might look like a century from now, we encourage everyone to come along this weekend and take part."
Councillor Andrew Judson, Deputy Leader of Bradford Council and Portfolio Holder for Economy, Regeneration and Planning, added: “Ilkley Manor House is the oldest and one of the most historically significant buildings in our district, and it is a privilege for the Council to care for it on behalf of residents and future generations.
“Some lovely historic architectural detailing in the roof timbers have been uncovered during the work, connecting us to the craftspeople who worked on this building centuries ago. Adding a time capsule as these latest vital repairs near completion is a wonderful way to celebrate the building's living history and involve the community in its ongoing story.”
Dating back to around 1390 and standing on the remains of a Roman fort, Ilkley Manor House is the oldest property in Bradford Council’s portfolio. The specialist roofing work is being undertaken by Jennings Roofing, with Bradford Council and it has been designed to preserve the building's historic character.
Existing stone slates have been carefully assessed, graded, and re-laid with their weathered sides facing upwards, with around 20 per cent being replaced where necessary. The works ensure the Grade I listed building—which operates as a thriving museum, art gallery, and community venue – will remain safe, weatherproof, and open to the public for many years to come.
