Carlisle Tower Reveals “Extraordinary” Hidden Tudor Ceiling

Religious edifices, such as churches and cathedrals, frequently provide remarkable cultural encounters, showcasing impressive architecture and notable artworks. However, unique offerings are not exclusive to the most famous among them. Within the cathedral close in Carlisle, Cumbria, a tower conceals a Tudor ceiling described as a “rare survival.” The Reverend Canon Benjamin Carter notes that its exceptional state of preservation renders it extraordinary. This 500-year-old ceiling was created during a period when the cathedral functioned as a priory, prior to Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. Dr Carter states, “We often sit in this room and tell people this is our second best ceiling.” Carlisle Cathedral is renowned for its starry vaulted ceiling. Nevertheless, the Tudor ceiling, located on the first floor of Prior’s Tower, is typically inaccessible to the public and presents a unique find due to its remarkable preservation. Dr Carter explains, “I don’t know whether there was a suspended ceiling that hid it and then it got revealed, or whether it was just one of those things that just survived, in the way that these things sometimes do.” Constructed in the late 15th Century for the Priory of St Mary, the tower is situated on the city’s West Walls. Currently, it stands adjacent to the dean’s residence. Prior Senhouse oversaw the construction of the tower, and his heraldry is incorporated into the ceiling’s design. Predominantly painted in red, white, and black, the ceiling is located in a room that exhibits a blend of Medieval and Georgian aesthetics. The room includes a disused Jacobean fireplace, and its remaining walls are panelled in light green, resembling a Georgian drawing room. Dr Carter states: “[The ceiling] has painted symbols all over it, which tell of the life of the cathedral and Cumberland. It includes Tudor roses, showing our fidelity to the crown at that time.” According to Dr Carter, the tower’s uppermost floor previously served as a museum, but its spiral staircase poses difficulties for the space’s complete utility. Nevertheless, the expansive view from the summit, extending across the walls and over the city, enhances the distinctive character of this concealed Cumbrian treasure. For updates, follow BBC Cumbria on X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.