Loseley Park
The present Manor House was built by Sir William More during the reign of Elizabeth I between 1562 and 1568. At that time the total cost of the house was £1,640.19s 7d.
Not strictly in Compton, it is just ouside and plays an important part in Compton's heritage. A good deal of stone was used from the ruins of the Cistercian Waverley Abbey near Farnham, which was destroyed by Henry VIII and is now some 860 years old.
Today the sophisticated interior and stately gardens play host to film stars such as Kate Winslett, Johnny Depp, Felicity Kendall, Martin Clunes, John Nettles, Pam Ferris and Michael Kitchin, who have enjoyed filming here.
As well as being the family home of the More-Molyneux Family, Loseley Park is also a prestigous venue for weddings, conferences, banquets and dinners. Additionally major shows are held here throughout the year.
LOSELEY PARK - SPRING UPDATE
Having joined Loseley Park as Estate Manager in December, I thought it would be helpful to share a short update, I hope this will be of interest. The estate team has been busy with seasonal land management, countryside stewardship and conservation work, all timed to support wildlife while keeping the landscape in good condition for the months ahead. Grazing rotations are also underway, so residents may notice livestock, English Long Horn Cattle, moving between fields as we manage pasture health. Much of what we are doing at present is long-overdue maintenance and compliance work, including some refencing and widening of the public footpath 280 and I appreciate that when several things happen at once it can feel like a sudden change.
Path maintenance
We continue to maintain the network of permissive paths across the estate. A small number of routes may see short-term closures for ground repairs or habitat protection, and we appreciate everyone’s patience when this is required. The path running along the edge of the tenant farmer’s field at Chalkpit and Rutherford’s (adjacent to Bridleway 14 near the Hog’s Back) is now open again. We are ensuring a minimum path width of 2m for walkers, and a new fence with stock-netting and split chestnut stakes will be installed along the south side in due course. Our intention is to keep the route open for the long term, which is why we are investing in a new fence line. The intention is that dog walkers will be able to let dogs off the lead without risk to the farmer’s crop. The permissive path will close for only one day each year — proposed, as the first Monday in February (not a Bank Holiday, during the winter short days, and so hopefully affects the fewest number of people).
Woodland Management
The estate carries out regular professional tree surveys to keep our woodlands healthy and our paths safe for everyone. Sadly, a number of trees, including ash affected by Ash Dieback, require attention whether it be from dead or dying trees, storm damage, brittle, fungal decay, cavities or cracks, or significant lean or movement. Where a tree poses a risk to path users, neighbouring land, or estate operations, we must take action. This may include pruning, making safe, or in some cases removing the tree. Thank you for your understanding while this essential work continues.
Events
Several events are planned throughout the year, some of which may result in increased traffic at certain times. A full list of future events can be found on the website. Events from April 28, 2025 – September 27, 2025 – Loseley Park. Which include the Surrey Country Craft & Food Show from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 June 2026, celebrating the very best local makers, producers and creatives from across Surrey and the South East. Following on we have the Loseley Decorative Home & Salvage Show, a three-day outdoor boutique-style events set in stunning countryside locations, aimed at those who love sourcing beautiful pieces for the home and garden. In August we have Live @ Loseley, which brings together unforgettable open-air entertainment, exceptional food and drink, and a warmly welcoming festival atmosphere. Choose your night, gather your favourite people, and make a summer memory. Also, a drone show in September with commentary, which ought to be a fantastic evening. For those of you that haven’t yet had a tour around the Grade 1 listed house or walled gardens I thoroughly recommend it. Private tours can also be arranged.
Community Volunteering
The estate remains committed to caring for the land, enhancing biodiversity and maintaining the countryside we all enjoy. I am also exploring opportunities for community volunteering — perhaps wildlife surveys or planting projects — for those who would like to be involved. Hopefully more interesting than the usual litter party requests!
Environmentalism
The estate is very proud of its long environmental history, which has shaped the way the land is cared. For many years, the estate on its in-hand options has chosen to farm and manage the countryside without the use of pesticides or chemical sprays. This sustainable farming approach supports the natural balance of the landscape, allowing soils to regenerate, insects to thrive and wildlife to flourish in a healthier, more resilient ecosystem. By avoiding artificial inputs, we protect the diversity of pollinators, encourage beneficial insects and maintain the rich soil structure that underpins the long-term health of the fields, hedgerows and woodlands. It is a slower, more considered way of working, but one that reflects our commitment to stewardship and to leaving the land in better condition for future generations. The tenant farmer limits the use of sprays to the minimum to ensure his produce is of the standard to be considered for distribution here https://wildfarmed.com/pages/grocery
Honeybees
We are also in the process of relocating our bees. The hive is part of our ongoing commitment to supporting local wildlife and strengthening the natural habitats that surround our community. The hive also contributes to biodiversity. More pollination means more flowering plants, which in turn support a wider range of insects, birds and small mammals. It’s a simple addition with a big ecological impact. There are obvious practical benefits to, the bees produce honey! The hive also provides an opportunity for local schools and visitors to learn more about pollinators and the important role they play in the countryside.
We are grateful for the continued support of the local community, and in due course sharing more updates as the year progresses.
Jim Héroys
Estate Manager, Loseley Park
or phone 01483 304440 or visit The Loseley House website on www.loseleypark.co.uk