A MULTI-MILLION pound restoration of a Grade II-listed historic building has scooped a leading award.

The revamp of Camellia House, at Wentworth Woodhouse, has been given an accolade from the Georgian Group, whose members promote and protect historic buildings.

It was transformed from being deemed ‘at risk’ into a tea house which boasts fine dining experiences, global teas and and a display of camellia flowers, which are some of the oldest and rarest in Europe.

The restoration project is being managed by the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust following a £4m grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The restorations are sustainable and have been mindful of the building’s heritage, with rainwater now recycled.

Camellia House won the coveted ‘re-use of a Georgian building’ title in this year’s awards.

It was commended for the admirable conservation work and for returning the building back to its original purpose.

Chief executive of Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust, Sarah McLeod OBE, added: “We have future-proofed our beautiful Georgian Camellia House and enabled it to become a tea house the very thing it was originally created for.

“Now everyone can come and enjoy this elegant place and the historically important collection of camellias which can continue to thrive there.

“It’s a significant step in our mission to build a financially sustainable long-term solution for Wentworth Woodhouse, so it can be enjoyed and used by local people for many years to come.”