Restoration work to the Grade II* Burton Mausoleum in the churchyard of St Mary Magdalen Roman Catholic Church in Mortlake, London, will commence in July 2025. Habitats & Heritage has appointed Cliveden Conservation, Martin Ashley Architects and Conisbee Consulting to undertake the conservation of the Victorian Explorer’s Tomb.
Habitats & Heritage has been awarded a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant of £249k for the heritage project, Burton: Exploring without Boundaries. The project aims to restore and reopen Burton’s tomb, which was closed following vandalism in the 1950s.
In addition, the project will deliver an extensive educational programme that includes interactive learning experiences designed to engage diverse audiences in the rich history of the Burton Mausoleum.
The unique Grade II* Burton Mausoleum which incorporates Islamic and Christian iconography and is shaped like a Bedouin tent, holds a significant place in history. It is the final resting place of Sir Richard Burton, one of the most celebrated and controversial travellers of the nineteenth century, and his wife and fellow explorer Lady Isabel Burton.
Using specialist techniques, conservators will meticulously clean and conserve the beautifully carved Forest of Dean sandstone elevations of the Victorian tomb. A protective limewash will then be applied which will also enhance the appearance of the historic mausoleum. The ornate painted interior of the tomb will also be carefully cleaned and stabilised, and a new door reinstated.
David Bloxam, Head of Architectural Projects at Cliveden Conservation, is looking forward to working on this unique project:
“We are excited to begin the conservation of this remarkable and captivating tent-shaped mausoleum. It will be a true honour to play a role in preserving the legacy of this Victorian masterpiece and restoring it so it can be reopened to visitors.”
Amy Turner, Architect, Martin Ashley Architects, commented:
“The Burton Mausoleum is an astonishing example of Victorian design and craftsmanship, and reopening the historic doorway presents a unique challenge necessitating a truly collaborative approach. We are delighted to be a part of the excellent team working to conserve the mausoleum, ensuring its longevity and making it accessible again to visitors.”
Paul Jennings, CEO of Habitats & Heritage, said:
“Habitats & Heritage are very pleased to be working with Cliveden Conservation and Martin Ashley Architects to conserve the unique Burton Mausoleum. By improving the accessibility to the monument and investigating underexplored narratives, such as Sir Richard’s relationship with Islam and the explorations of Lady Isabel, we look forward to welcoming new audiences to engage with this site.”
Burton Mausoleum before conservation treatment