Preston Manor & Gardens

About

Preston Manor & Gardens

Discover the historic country house that shaped Brighton

Discover the hidden history of the city at Preston Manor, Brighton’s only historic country house. Fully open with a completely refreshed visitor experience, this grand Edwardian estate transports you into the real-life drama of 1912 high society. Explore the opulent world of the Thomas-Stanford family, the influential figures who actively shaped Brighton into the vibrant city it is today and discover the secret lives of the servants who worked below stairs.

Escape the busy beach and pier to step directly into a peaceful and beautifully preserved Edwardian time capsule. Located just a short distance from the city centre, Preston Manor & Gardens offers an unmissable look into the glamour, intrigue and rigid class divides of historic Britain.

Your admission ticket grants you full access to a completely reimagined self-guided journey through the house, where history feels entirely alive…and have we mentioned there are ghosts?

Meet the dynasties who built Brighton

Preston Manor was the historic seat of the powerful families who actively laid the foundations for modern Brighton. From the medieval Elringtons and the influential Shirleys and Westerns, right through to the ultra-wealthy Thomas-Stanfords in the Edwardian era, the residents of this house shaped the local landscape for generations. Walking through these grand rooms gives you a direct connection to the centuries of wealth, decisions and eccentric visionaries who built the city's unique character.

Upstairs luxury vs downstairs secrets

Experience the captivating contrast of a world divided in the momentous year of the Titanic disaster. After viewing the luxury of the Thomas-Stanford family upstairs, descend into the vast below stairs world. Explore the kitchens, butler’s pantry and cook and housemaid’s bedrooms to see exactly how the loyal staff worked around the clock to keep the house running perfectly.

History and hauntings

With roots stretching back to the Domesday Book of 1086, the house is steeped in centuries of deep heritage. It is also legendary as one of the most haunted buildings in Britain. History buffs and thrill-seekers can step inside the notorious Cleves Room to learn about the manor’s famous supernatural history and ghostly legends.

The Manor Tearoom by Café Rust

Complete your day out by relaxing at the stunning onsite tearoom, run by renowned local favourite Café Rust. Situated in one of Ellen Stanford’s favourite rooms, it is the perfect spot to enjoy artisan coffee and local treats while surrounded by her eccentric, priceless collection of 124 'Dogs of Fo' statues.

What is included

• Full admission ticket to Preston Manor house and gardens
• Access to the completely updated, immersive visitor experience
• Entry to the family rooms, servants' quarters, the haunted Cleves Room and beautiful gardens.
• Access to the Manor Tearoom by Café Rust

Important Information

• Opening Hours: Please check current seasonal opening hours before your visit.
• Location: Easy access via local Brighton bus routes or a short taxi ride from the seafront. Free parking is available on-site for visitors.
• Weather: A fantastic, fully indoor cultural attraction that is perfect to enjoy rain or shine.