Abingdon County Hall Museum Refurbishment and Extension

Abingdon County Hall Museum wanted to improve access, comfort and functionality within its Grade I listed 17th‑century landmark.

The aim was to ensure the building could better serve visitors while safeguarding its national heritage significance.

Restoring and adapting a 17th-century landmark

Standing at the heart of Abingdon’s Market Place since 1682, Abingdon County Hall has taken on many roles – Assizes Court, market hall, water pumping station and, since 1919, a museum. With more than 300 years of history woven into its fabric, any intervention required careful judgement and a clear understanding of its significance.

We began by surveying the building and carrying out a detailed historical review. This produced an assessment of significance, followed by a heritage impact assessment to guide key design decisions. Our architecture, structural engineering and building services teams worked closely together, and with the exhibition designer, to sensitively coordinate the new gallery spaces.

The refurbishment addressed long-standing issues including water ingress, ageing materials and poor internal comfort. Externally, we repaired stonework, installed a new lead roof and renewed the balustrade, restoring the building’s presence on the Market Place. Inside, secondary glazing and insulated floors improved comfort and thermal performance while protecting the building’s historic character.

A discreet platform lift now links to the extended basement, making the building more welcoming and accessible for all visitors.

Enhancing visitor experience below ground

The basement, once home to the gas engines that pumped water across west Abingdon, has been transformed into a new café, a teaching space and an updated interactive water pump display. It connects the building’s industrial past with its present-day role.

New galleries and office areas feel light and contemporary, yet still sit comfortably within their historic surroundings. Upgraded building services systems improve comfort and reduce energy use, creating a more sustainable environment for visitors and staff.

Securing the future of a civic landmark

The completed extension and refurbishment ensure this nationally significant Grade I listed building continues to anchor Abingdon’s town centre. By repairing its fabric and thoughtfully adapting its spaces, the project strengthens the museum’s role as both a community hub and a guardian of local history.

The result is a building that looks renewed on the outside and feels revitalised within, ready to tell Abingdon’s story for generations to come.