Preston Manor | Brighton

Preston Manor is a historic house and museum located in Brighton, England, set within Preston Park, one of the city's largest and most picturesque green spaces. The manor is a significant part of Brighton's heritage, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's past, its social history, and the lifestyles of the wealthy during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras.

History and Architecture

Preston Manor was originally built in the 16th century as a modest farmhouse, but over time it underwent extensive modifications and expansions, particularly during the 18th century. The manor as it stands today reflects the grand architecture of the late Victorian period, when it was owned by wealthy families.

The house was purchased in the late 19th century by the Stewart family, who were prominent members of Brighton society. Under their ownership, Preston Manor was transformed into a grand home, with Victorian furnishings and a range of modern amenities. The house remained in the hands of the Stewart family until the 1930s, when it was eventually bequeathed to the people of Brighton.

In 1933, Preston Manor was acquired by the Brighton Corporation and opened to the public as a museum. Since then, it has served as a historic house museum, preserving the rooms and contents of the manor to showcase how a wealthy family would have lived during the late Victorian and Edwardian periods.

The House and Grounds

The manor is set in beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds, with views over Preston Park and the surrounding areas. The house itself is a fine example of Victorian architecture, with a combination of Georgian and Victorian influences. Visitors will find elegant interiors, period furniture, and original fittings throughout the building.

Some of the notable features of the house include:

• The Entrance Hall: The first impression upon entering Preston Manor is its grand entrance hall, which has period furnishings and a range of historical artifacts.
• The Drawing Room: This room is a highlight of the manor, with its beautiful Victorian furnishings, fireplace, and decorative wallpaper. The drawing room was traditionally used for receiving guests, and it reflects the grandeur of the era.
• The Dining Room: The dining room is set up to resemble a typical Victorian dinner, showcasing an array of fine china, silverware, and glassware, as well as original furnishings.
• The Library: The library is filled with a selection of books and periodicals, showcasing the intellectual interests of the family who lived here. It also features elegant wooden paneling and rich furnishings.
• The Bedrooms: The upstairs rooms include several beautifully preserved bedrooms, including those of the Stewart family. The rooms reflect the wealth and status of the family, with luxurious fabrics and antique furniture.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Preston Manor is its collection of historical artifacts, such as Victorian clothing, personal items, and objects used in the daily lives of the family and staff. There is also a range of textiles, decorative arts, and historical documents that illustrate life in Brighton during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Garden

The gardens surrounding Preston Manor are beautifully maintained and offer a peaceful and scenic place to explore. The grounds are home to a variety of historical plants and flowers, many of which are representative of the types of gardens that were popular in the Victorian period. The gardens also include a walled garden, which was originally used for growing fruits and vegetables for the household, and an ornamental garden designed for aesthetic pleasure.

The house is located within Preston Park, which is known for its wide open spaces, tree-lined avenues, and well-maintained lawns. The park itself has a rich history, having been a popular place for recreation since the early 19th century. Visitors to Preston Manor can enjoy a stroll through the park and gardens, which enhance the overall experience of exploring the house.

The Museum and Collections

Preston Manor is not just a historic house; it is also home to an impressive range of collections that shed light on the history of Brighton and its residents. The house is part of the Brighton & Hove Museums group, and its collections include:

• Social history: The museum showcases items that reflect the everyday lives of Victorian and Edwardian families, including clothing, tools, household objects, and more. Visitors can learn about the social hierarchy of the time, as well as the roles of servants, tradespeople, and the aristocracy.
• Victorian and Edwardian memorabilia: The house contains a range of items from the Stewart family, including their personal possessions, photographs, and letters. These artifacts help bring the history of the house and its inhabitants to life.
• Period furniture and decoration: Many of the rooms in the house feature authentic Victorian furniture and decorative objects, providing visitors with an authentic insight into the domestic interiors of the time.
• Antique porcelain and glassware: The manor contains a collection of fine china, silver, and glassware, which were used for dining and entertaining. Many of these items are displayed in the dining room and drawing room.
• Victorian and Edwardian clothing: The museum also holds a range of clothing from the period, which is displayed in several rooms to highlight the fashion of the time. These garments offer a fascinating glimpse into the styles and customs of the Victorian elite.

Paranormal Activity

One of the intriguing aspects of Preston Manor is its reputation for being haunted. Over the years, there have been numerous reports of paranormal activity, and the manor has become a popular site for ghost hunters. Visitors have reported seeing ghostly apparitions, hearing strange sounds, and feeling cold spots in various parts of the house, particularly in the library and stairs.

The house is said to be haunted by the spirit of a former servant as well as the Stewart family members themselves. Ghost tours are sometimes offered as part of special events, allowing visitors to learn about the manor’s eerie past while exploring its dark corners.

Special Events and Activities

Preston Manor hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including:

• Family workshops and activities: These are designed to help younger visitors learn about history in a fun and interactive way. Activities may include Victorian crafts, treasure hunts, or historical reenactments.
• Seasonal events: Preston Manor often hosts seasonal events, such as Christmas fairs, Victorian-themed afternoons, and Halloween ghost tours.
• Educational programs: The museum offers educational programs for schools, allowing students to explore the history of the house and the broader history of Brighton through hands-on learning.

Visiting Information

• Opening hours: Preston Manor is typically open to the public during the summer months and on weekends throughout the year. It’s best to check ahead of your visit, as opening hours may vary depending on the time of year and special events.
• Admission: There is usually a small entry fee to visit the manor, with discounts for children, seniors, and families. As part of the Brighton & Hove Museums network, tickets may also grant access to other local museums.
• Getting there: Preston Manor is located in Preston Park, a short distance from Brighton city center. It is easily accessible by bus, and there are nearby parking facilities if you are driving.

Conclusion

Preston Manor is a hidden gem in Brighton, offering visitors a fascinating insight into the life of the Victorian elite and the social history of the area. The beautiful house, its collections, and its setting within Preston Park make it a peaceful and educational place to visit. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or the supernatural, Preston Manor provides a unique and enriching experience.