The History of Westbury Manor Museum

Westbury Manor Museum was once a 17th century farmhouse on the edge of the small market town of Fareham. Evidence of this was discovered during the restoration of the building in 1988. Sometime after 1750 Westbury Manor was "gentrified" when the building was enlarged and a fine Georgian brick facade with typical windows and entrance was added. In the mid 19th century, extensive additions were made to the rear of the building including the stairwell and the elegantly proportioned rooms with bay windows. The addition of wings on both sides in the 1860's made Westbury Manor one of the largest buildings in West Street. The graceful staircase leading to the first floor was originally bought at the Great Exhibition in 1851. The current staircase is a replica.

 

In 1932, it was sold to Fareham Urban District Council who used it as the council offices. In 1974 Fareham Urban District Council became Fareham Borough Council and moved into the new Civic Offices. The future of Westbury Manor was uncertain as the building became derelict.

 

Intensive lobbying by many groups such as the Fareham Society, Fareham Local History Group, Friends of Fareham Museum and many individuals helped save the building. The generous bequest of Miss Winifred Cocks, a local resident, provided support for the funding partnership of Fareham Borough Council and Hampshire County Council to convert Westbury Manor into a Museum for the Borough.

 

Westbury Manor Museum opened in 1990. It tells the story of the whole Borough of Fareham, using graphics, models, archive material, photographs, sound effects and objects.

 

A beautiful Victorian-style garden at the rear of the building and a small but attractive coffee lounge makes the museum an ideal place to relax in when visiting the town. We hope you enjoy your visit to Westbury Manor Museum. If you have any questions, comments, complaints or suggestions for improving our service, please contact the Curator on Tel: 01329 824895 or email tom.dewit@hants.gov.uk

 

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