Watch The Manor Reborn

The Manor Reborn is a British reality television series that aired on BBC Two in 2011. The show features six one-hour episodes, each of which follows a team of experts as they work to restore two historic properties – Avebury Manor and Churchills – to their former glory. Hosted by Penelope Keith and Paul Martin, the show provides a unique insight into the world of historic restoration and renovation, as well as a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived and worked in these properties.

The first episode of The Manor Reborn begins at Avebury Manor, a 16th-century Grade I listed property located in the village of Avebury, Wiltshire. The property has been closed to the public for several years and is in dire need of repair and restoration. Over the course of the episode, Penelope and Paul introduce the viewers to the team of experts who will be working on the project, including a conservation architect, an interior decorator, a landscape architect, and a historian.

The team starts by conducting a thorough investigation of the property, uncovering hidden details about its history and architecture. They discover that the manor has been modified and expanded over the centuries and decide to focus on restoring its 18th-century interior. The interior decorator works with a team of craftsmen to recreate the original paint colours, fabrics, and wallpapers, while the landscape architect designs a new garden that is in keeping with the manor's history and location.

As the restoration work progresses, Penelope and Paul speak to local residents who have a personal connection to the manor. They also meet with the descendants of the original owners and learn more about the family's history and the manor's role in the community. The episode culminates in a grand re-opening ceremony, where the public is invited to view the restored property and learn more about its history.

The subsequent episodes of The Manor Reborn follow a similar format, focusing on the restoration of Churchills, a 17th-century property located in the Cotswolds. Churchills is a much larger property than Avebury Manor and has been left to fall into disrepair for many years. The team of experts faces a number of challenges, including rotting timbers, a leaking roof, and an outdated heating system.

Despite the challenges, the team is able to restore the property to its former glory, creating a modern and comfortable living space without sacrificing its historic character. Along the way, Penelope and Paul speak to local residents, experts, and historians to learn more about the property's history and the people who lived there. The series culminates in a final episode that brings together the teams from Avebury Manor and Churchills to showcase their work and celebrate the restoration of these two historic properties.

Overall, The Manor Reborn is a fascinating and engaging series that offers a unique insight into the world of historic restoration and renovation. The show combines compelling storytelling with expert knowledge and stunning visuals to create a memorable and informative viewing experience. Whether you are a fan of architecture, history, or interior design, The Manor Reborn is sure to capture your imagination and leave you with a new appreciation for the beauty and importance of historic properties.

The Manor Reborn is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between and on Inside Outside