Key Takeaways
- Location: Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath, Derbyshire
- Challenge: Replace timber bifolds exposed to harsh weather and heavy footfall
- Solution: Seven sets of Centor C1 bifolding doors
- Result: Improved durability, accessibility, and weather resistance
Why Did the Heights of Abraham Need New Doors?
The Heights of Abraham is one of Derbyshire’s most iconic attractions. Perched on Masson Hill and accessed via a dramatic cable car ride, the site offers panoramic views over Matlock Bath. Its hilltop restaurant, Treetops, sits in a highly exposed position—perfect for diners, but punishing for timber doors.
Owners Andrew and Rupert Pugh, long-time Gowercroft customers, approached us in 2010. The existing timber bifolds were weathered and difficult to use. They needed a durable, low-maintenance solution that could handle high foot traffic and extreme exposure.
Why Were Bifold Doors the Best Fit?
Initially, the plan was to replace the old timber doors with upgraded wooden bifolds using Centor’s bottom-running ironmongery. But concerns remained about longevity in such a harsh location.
Around the same time, Centor selected Gowercroft as one of the first UK suppliers for its new C1 aluminium bifold system. When talks resumed in 2011, Steve Keeling from Total Image, the site’s design consultant, recommended the aluminium system for its strength, performance, and suitability for the setting.
The Centor C1 system offered exactly what the project needed:
- Thermally broken aluminium profiles with U-values as low as 1.1 W/m²K
- Slim sightlines and fully bespoke sizing up to 6000mm wide and 2800mm high
- Weather performance to BS6375-1:2009
- Powder-coated finish in any standard RAL colour
- Triple or double glazing options
- Robust security with internal beading and fixed hinge pins
The doors also featured Centor’s Twinpoint lock and stacked externally to maximise interior space.
How Did the Installation Team Overcome Site Challenges?
The project involved replacing seven sets of bifolding doors. Gowercroft’s Special Projects Director, David Brown, worked closely with the clients and Steve Keeling to tackle the unique technical issues presented by the site.
Because the doors sat directly on steel RSJs, we couldn’t lower them. We needed to balance weatherproofing and accessibility without compromising the aesthetic. Using 3D visuals, Steve’s team explored various threshold solutions. The final decision was to raise the internal heating grills, creating a neat and practical step while meeting building regulations.
Steve later said:
“Gowercroft worked with us to deliver a solution that was both functional and an excellent match for the overall appearance of the building.”
A Project That’s Still Performing Years Later
The installation was completed in April 2012. More than a decade on, the Centor C1 aluminium bifolds continue to provide excellent insulation, effortless operation, and uninterrupted views for the thousands of annual visitors to Treetops.
Rupert Pugh commented:
“Treetops has been returned to its former glory and I look forward to working with David and the Gowercroft team again in the future.”
Since the project, we’ve carried out further work at the Heights of Abraham and continue to support the site with specialist joinery expertise.
How Have Things Changed Since This Project?
At the time of the Heights of Abraham installation, Gowercroft Joinery offered a wider variety of materials and joinery products, including aluminium bifold systems like the Centor C1. While we still use Centor’s high-performance ironmongery today, we now focus exclusively on manufacturing timber windows and doors.
This shift reflects our commitment to sustainability, precision craftsmanship and exceptional performance. We’ve refined our product offering, selecting only Accoya and Red Grandis timbers for their proven durability and environmental benefits. Every element of our designs, from advanced glazing options to high-performance coatings, is carefully engineered to deliver long-lasting results.
If you’re looking for beautiful timber doors that combine heritage detailing with outstanding efficiency, explore our full product range here.