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Architecture of the house

In the 1640s, the Tudor owner, embarrassed by the outdated look of the building but unable to rebuild it, commissioned a red-brick façade in the latest Dutch style. Rather than supporting the house, it was simply fixed to the original timber frame — a theatrical flourish that still charms today. Over time, the façade has drifted slightly from the timber-framed, stone- floored structure behind it, leaving a telling gap between past and present of around 12 centimetres. Either side of the front door are two matching Grade II listed brick dog kennels.

Records from the 1840s tell they were ‘occupied by two noble deer hounds named Dersy and Dermid’.

Architecture archive

Open Day

The Manor House & Walled Garden:

By ticket only

To visit the historic house and gardens you will need to hold a ticket to one of our events. Our wide programme of events has been developed to give you a deeper, richer, more hands-on experience of a living piece of history. Choose an open day or guided tour, a workshops or performance, a festival or a talk — there’s so many ways to create your own meaningful connection to West Horsley Place.

Pre-booking is essential, please note the house and garden is not open for general admission, or by turning up to an event without a ticket.

The Estate:

Open all year round

Beyond the walls of our Manor House and garden lie 400 acres of abundant estate land. We are thrilled to be able to share this with you, and welcome you to explore the footpaths that cross this land any time, 365 day of the year.

You are also free to access our courtyard with picnic tables at any time. Most days, between 10am and 4pm, you will find the Tiger Lily Bus Company pop-up café there, serving barista coffee, drinks and snacks. Please check our Food & Drink page for updates to their opening hours.

Free parking is available in our car park, but may be subject to availability at busy times or around events.

Book now

Private Nooks & Crannies Tour

Guided by one of our expert volunteer guides, you will explore every corner of the house, including areas never opened to the general public. Discover what Henry VIII had for lunch in the Stone Hall and see the bag that Walter Raleigh's head was carried in. Enjoy Lord Crewe’s impressive library and Sir Anthony Browne’s glorious Tudor ceiling.

This extensive tour provides an unrivalled opportunity to learn more about the history of West Horsley Place. During the tour, your group will explore the nooks and crannies of the house and delve into the fascinating lives of the many illustrious owners and visitors, as well as finding out more about the architectural history of the house. You’ll also have a chance to stroll in our beautiful Walled Garden. It’s a wonderful opportunity to get
closer to a wealth of stories from our past.

getting here