IT is one of the jewels in the crown of Southampton's past but time has taken its toll on the city's Tudor House Museum.
The house was built in 1495 and is now in need of urgent repair.
The museum has been closed pending a year-long restoration programme due to start in the spring but visitors had a rare chance to tour the historic building's interior this month during a day of free guided tours.
Structural problems at the St Michael's Square property include the banqueting hall's ceiling currently being held up by scaffolding, and weak wooden joists.
The £2.3m repair bill is being funded by grants from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Southampton City College, English Heritage and the Friends of Southampton Museums and Galleries.
A second one-day opening is scheduled for the museum on March 19 from 10am until 4pm with free guided tours.
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