Stanmer Estate: History and Heritage

Explore the history and heritage of Stanmer Estate.

The Stanmer Estate has a fascinating history, with unique 19th-century buildings and working farms. Discover it here.

You can also read a fascinating article by Anooshka Rawden, Cultural Heritage Lead at the South Downs National Park Authority below.

Archaeological records

The name 'Stanmer' comes from the Anglo-Saxon words ‘stan’ meaning ‘stone’ and ‘mere’ meaning ‘pond’ – so ‘Stony Pond’. There is evidence of human habitation within Stanmer Park going back as far as the Neolithic Period, some 6000 years ago.

18th Century

The Pelham family bought the Stanmer Estate in 1713 and employed Nicholas Dubois to design the present manor house. Following the construction of the house, the current walled gardens and ornamental gardens were laid out.

19th Century

During the nineteenth century, the estate was maintained and enlarged, the gardens were modified and the existing church was built.

20th Century

The Estate was requisitioned from the Pelham family in 1942 to provide billeting and firing ranges for a Canadian tank regiment. In 1947, the estate was sold to The Brighton Corporation, which brought 230 years of ownership by the Pelham family to an end.

Following rebuilding works to repair the site after damage caused by the wartime tank regiment, the park opened to the public in 1953.

The estate is the setting for:

  • the Grade I listed House
  • the Grade II* listed Stable Block
  • 16 Grade II listed buildings, including the unique Water Catcher

Find out more