Barnham Court

Barnham Court is a three-story brick residence with two Doric pilasters and three Dutch gables that rise above the West Sussex landscape. The interior contains multiple bedrooms and a basement with medieval-style arches beneath the main structure.

The house was built between 1630 and 1650 for the Shelley family of Michelgrove as a country residence for this local gentry family. Ownership later passed to William Morley and then to the Duke of Richmond, showing how the property moved through successive hands of wealthy landowners.

The building displays design choices typical of 17th century English country homes, reflecting how wealthy families of the era wanted to live and present themselves. Its tall windows and curved gables show the architectural tastes that mattered to the people who built and owned it.

The property is located in West Sussex and can be viewed from the outside as it remains a private residence. Visitors should appreciate it from public vantage points or inquire in advance if any viewing opportunities are available.

A spiral staircase was cleverly designed to channel natural light through windows into the interior living areas of the house. This thoughtful design shows how early residents optimized lighting before modern technology existed.

Location: Barnham and Eastergate

GPS coordinates: 50.82380,-0.64443

Latest update: December 12, 2025 08:01