Sussex Heritage Trust Celebrates History with Tour of King Edward VII Estate

Members of the Sussex Heritage Trust were recently invited to visit City & Country’s King Edward VII Estate, offering a unique opportunity to explore the ongoing redevelopment of this historic site. Founded 40 years ago, the Sussex Heritage Trust is dedicated to celebrating and preserving the county’s architectural and natural landscape.

Originally opened in 1906 by King Edward VII as a tuberculosis sanatorium, the estate later fell out of use as medical advancements progressed, leaving the buildings dormant before being carefully acquired and restored by City & Country.

The visit was led by City & Country’s Design and Planning Director, Simon Vernon-Harcourt, alongside Project Manager Matt Ward, who provided expert insight into the vision behind the redevelopment and the meticulous approach taken to restore the estate. Guests were guided through the grounds, with particular focus on the original Arts & Crafts sanatorium building, which forms the architectural centrepiece of the development.

The wider estate comprises a collection of Grade II and Grade II* listed buildings, all of which have been thoughtfully restored and converted into new homes. The tour highlighted the balance between preserving historic character and delivering high‑quality modern living.

Attendees were also given the opportunity to take in views across the surrounding Sussex countryside, as well as access a newly unveiled show home, offering a first look at the design, finish and attention to detail that define the completed homes.

A representative from the Sussex Heritage Trust commented: “As a charity, we have spent decades championing the exceptional architecture and rich history of Sussex, and it was a pleasure to see how sensitively the King Edward VII Estate has been brought back into purposeful use. The balance between heritage conservation and high‑quality development is truly commendable, and we are grateful for the opportunity to experience it firsthand.”

Simon Vernon-Harcourt, Design and Planning Director at City & Country, added: “It was a pleasure to welcome members of the Sussex Heritage Trust to the estate and share the progress of this important restoration. Projects like the King Edward VII Estate reflect our commitment to breathing new life into historic buildings while respecting their original character.”