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. Sometime after 1750, it 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 back 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 it 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 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 individuals helped save it. 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 the manor into a museum for the Borough.

Westbury Manor Museum opened in 1990. A beautiful Victorian-style garden at the back of the building and a small but attractive coffee lounge makes it an ideal place to relax when visiting you are the town. We hope you enjoy your visit.

If you have any questions, comments, complaints or suggestions for improving our service, please contact the curator on 01329 822063 or visit the Museum's website at www.hampshireculturaltrust.org.uk/westbury-manor-museum .