From an Edward Jenner Museum Newsletter of 2008

This has proved strangely prophetic as the Attic rooms are now open to the public in 2009.

From the Archives

We asked Tim Davies, Marketing Manager at Berkeley Castle to tell us about his favourite item in the Museum and archive.... but Tim went a little higher than that:

One of the most interesting experiences I have had at the Edward Jenner Museum was a quick tour of the Attic. As I originally trained as a building surveyor I have always been fascinated with old and historic buildings and especially those that have evolved over time, naturally working at Berkeley Castle is therefore very pleasing!

But back at the museum, a “secret” door from the first floor landing takes you to a bare board staircase and after walking up and around following the roof structure you emerge onto a landing with rooms radiating around you. These would have been for maids/staff in years gone by and, like all accommodation for these people, it is fairly Spartan – you don’t waste luxury on the hired helps. But look beyond the apparent emptiness and bare features and you can see the remains of ancient wallpaper, paint and old repairs within the roof structure. My favourite part of all and relating to the evolution of the building was being able to look through an access hatch at the original roof of the house that pre-dated the present building. You understand then what a big change in size and status the current building achieved.

Very simple, very interesting and slightly spooky, it would be great if the roof space could be utilised or shown to more people, but perhaps then it would lose its charm and air of mystery. That’s my favourite part of the Museum, and I apologise if it is not specifically Jenner related!