Preston Manor (Thomas-Stanford Museum), Brighton

Preston Manor is a historic manor house in Brighton and Hove. It was originally part of the ancient Sussex village of Preston, which has since become part of the modern city. The manor's current structure largely dates back to 1738, when Thomas Western, then Lord of the Manor, rebuilt the existing 13th-century building, elements of which are still preserved within the house. The manor underwent further significant renovations and expansions in 1905 under the direction of architect Charles Stanley Peach, which contributed to its present appearance.

The manor passed through various owners over the centuries, including the wealthy Stanford family, reputed to be the richest in Sussex. Before them, it was owned by the Diocese of Chichester and even served as Crown property for a period. In 1932, the Stanford family bequeathed the manor to Brighton Corporation, transforming it into a museum and exhibition space. Today, Preston Manor offers visitors a glimpse into upper-class life during the Edwardian era.

Architecturally, Preston Manor is a two-story building with a symmetrical Palladian/Georgian façade, characterized by a stucco exterior and a hipped roof of Welsh slate. The mid-18th-century design includes a basement with remnants of the medieval manor, an attic with dormer windows, and a five-window main façade. The 1905 renovations added more windows and other features, such as the cast-iron verandahs on the north entrance and the arched French windows and balconies on the south façade. Original elements like sash windows and louver shutters have been preserved.

The interior of the manor spans four levels, with rooms that include former bedrooms, servants' quarters, and restored Victorian spaces in the basement. The grounds feature a walled garden of historical interest, complete with old flint walls, a ruined wellhouse, and a pet graveyard. Notably, Preston Manor is reputed to be one of the most haunted buildings in Britain, attracting ghost tours and paranormal investigations.

Preston Manor is recognized for its architectural and historical significance, having been listed as a Grade II* building by English Heritage, with some structures in the garden also listed as Grade II.