WORK is progressing on the significant refurbishment of the Crown Room at Edinburgh Castle.
The historic room is the home of the Crown, Sword, and Sceptre, which make up the Honours of Scotland.
Since the Crown Room closed its vault doors in January, significant refurbishment has been underway to enhance the display of the Honours. Elements of the Victorian design are being restored, including the room’s oak panelling.
New oak shields have been carved by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) joiners to return these features to the original, simpler form that would have decorated the display at that time.
A new, bespoke display case for the Honours is also being installed. This has been designed to continue to keep these priceless objects physically secure, environmentally stable and looking their best for the two million visitors who flock to the site each year.
The project has also provided a historic opportunity for a new generation of craftspeople to hone their skills. John Lamb, third year apprentice joiner at HES, has been working on the oak panelling conservation and creation of the new shields, while Mackenzie Francis, second year apprentice painter, has been painting the doors of the Crown Room.
Speaking about his involvement in the project, John said, “I’ve been able to work across all joinery aspects of the Crown Room refurbishment, which has been a really great opportunity. I’ve learned to use different router techniques while working on the new shields, and I’ve learned so much already working with the other joiners.”
Mackenzie added, “We’ve been using a metal paint to paint the doors of the Crown Room a new colour. Working on this project has given me the opportunity to find out more about different types of paint, which is a good skill to learn. It’s a big honour to work in the Crown Room, it’s not every day that you get the opportunity to do something like this.”
The redevelopment of the Crown Room is the latest chapter in the unfolding story of the Honours of Scotland, Britain’s oldest crown jewels and among the oldest in Europe. They have mainly been housed in the Crown Room at Edinburgh Castle since its completion in 1617. The room is a purpose-built secure vault designed specially to hold these treasures, with barrel-vaulting and thickened walls providing added security.
Kathy Richmond, head of collections and applied conservation at HES, said, “The Honours of Scotland are objects of immense significance and a key highlight of a visit to Edinburgh Castle. With this redevelopment, we’re taking inspiration from the past, and also want these objects to benefit from modern, high-quality design that meets the highest industry standards. The new display case will continue to ensure the long-term security and stability of the Honours, while creating an atmospheric and memorable experience for visitors.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors back to the Crown Room later this spring to see the Honours once again in all their glory.”
The Crown Room redevelopment is scheduled to be completed in April 2026.
