Castle Rushen’s medieval clock is heading off-island for specialist conservation after years of deterioration and structural issues at the tower.
The late‑16th‑century turret clock, one of the rarest surviving wooden‑framed mechanisms in the British Isles, has been part of Castle Rushen for at least 400 years and is thought to have been gifted by Queen Elizabeth I.
Manx National Heritage says water ingress, a collapsed ceiling and reliability problems have made specialist work essential. The clock was removed for safekeeping during tower repairs completed last year.
The Cumbria Clock Company, known for restoring Big Ben, will carry out precise repairs, test the movement on a full‑scale rig and reinstate the chiming mechanism.
A redesigned rope system and new glazed case will allow visitors to see the clock more closely when it returns.
MNH’s conservator Chris Weeks said the clock’s age and rarity mean highly specialised work is needed to secure its future.
The project is funded by the Friends of Manx National Heritage.
