A long-closed garden building has recently reopened to the public and is asking for help to restore history.
The octagonal Colby Gazebo has stood at the heart of the Walled Garden at Colby since the 1970s but was forced to close in 2019 when a colony of honeybees moved into the roof space.
National Trust Cymru, which manages the Pembrokeshire site, is now marking the gazebo’s 50th anniversary with a £20,000 fundraising appeal to support its full restoration.
Rhian Sula, general manager for Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Bay at National Trust Cymru, said: “The Gazebo is a central feature of the historic built environment here at Colby.
“It’s a meeting place of art and nature and we are passionate about safeguarding both the structure and the irreplaceable artwork it contains.
“Restoring the Colby Gazebo means more than just saving a building; it means preserving a living legacy for future generations to enjoy.”
Commissioned by Peter and Pamela Chance in the 1970s, the gazebo is valued as a place of inspiration and tranquillity within the walled garden.
The honeybee colony that took over the roof was successfully relocated last year to a beekeeper near Clynderwen, where it continues to thrive.
With the bees gone, the gazebo has been reroofed and reopened, but substantial repairs are still needed.
One of the most urgent tasks is restoring the interior trompe l’oeil artwork by American artist Lincoln Taber, which has suffered damage from melted wax and honey.
Funds will also cover exterior painting and specialist conservation surveys.
Kate Mellor, visitor operations and experience manager at National Trust Cymru, said: “The Colby Gazebo was created to be appreciated by visitors to the garden, both from the outside and the inside, through its beautiful interior.
“This is why we want to hear people’s ideas for how it can be used once fully restored, so everyone can go on creating lasting connections and memories in this special place.”
More than 50,000 visitors enjoy Colby Woodland Garden each year, and the National Trust hopes the restored gazebo can become a valuable community space.
Supporters are encouraged not only to donate but also to share their ideas for how the gazebo should be used in the future.
To find out more, contribute to the appeal, or submit a suggestion for the gazebo’s future, visit the National Trust’s website and search for ‘Colby Gazebo Appeal.’
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