September Noggin,14 Sept 2025 St Mary’s House, Bramber

Twenty one members took part in this Noggin at St. Mary’s House, Tea Rooms and gardens in Bramber.  Only two intrepid Morganeers arrived in Morgans due to a weather warning of high winds and heavy rain in the afternoon.

The beautiful timbered house dates back to the days of the Knights Templar. Its origins go back to the 12th century with the present building constructed in c1470. Throughout the centuries the house had had a number of distinguished owners. In 1984 Peter Thorogood and Roger Linton purchased the house and immediately set about a programme of restoration for 40 years.with the help of dedicated friends and volunteers Sadly Peter passed away very recently.

Our first stop was at the tea room where our group sampled sandwiches, cakes and tea and coffee. After a tour of the house, and we were told that if we hear a knocking on the wall it would just be a resident monk! One very interesting fact was that the outer wall of the house used to be alongside the sea and that the area directly outside where there is now a pond was once a wharf.

The 5 acre garden was lovely but the rain had started by the time we got to it. A very interesting day.

Photos to follow