The Jewel of our Collection: The Restoration of Willmer House

The Museum of Farnham is situated in Willmer House, a Grade I listed building of national significance. Built in 1718 by hop merchant John Thorne, the building is as much a part of the museum’s collection as the objects housed within it.

Willmer House is a very rare building because the façade is built entirely of gauged brickwork. The construction of such a fine brick building in Farnham was an extravagant display of Thorne’s wealth and good taste. Gauged brickwork was, and still is, one of the most expensive materials and building methods. However, at over 300 years old, the building has started to show signs of its age.

In the spring of 2023, we were delighted to be granted funding through the Arts Council England MEND project to conserve and repair the façade. This exhibition will explore the significance of this historical building and how we’re preserving it for future generations.

In addition to funding from Arts Council England, we are also grateful for the further funding support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Waverley Borough Council, Farnham Town Council and Farnham & District Museum Society.