In my last blog I looked at Upper Beeding in West Sussex. Today’s topic is the next village along, Bramber, which is full of history!
Bramber in West Sussex UK
A Bit of Background
There is a bridge over the River Adur that effectively marks the boundary between the villages of Bramber and Upper Beeding. Visiting it now, it is hard to imagine that Bramber was once a busy river port! But over time the river silted up and changed course, changing the fortunes of the village and its residents.
Bramber Castle
Looking down the main street of the village it is hard to miss Bramber Castle. Only ruins remain of the old castle today but they tower over this picturesque Sussex village. A Norman motte-and-bailey construction, the castle was built by William de Braose soon after the Norman Conquest.
St Mary’s House
Adjoining St Mary’s Court (the knapped flint building with a glass door) which is a residential home for older people, sits St Mary’s House an historic building
Originally built for the Bishop of Winchester (William of Waynflete) in 1470, St Mary’s is of traditional timber-framed construction.
The origin of the land on which the house sits go back much earlier to the 12th century when it was given to the Knights Templar. St Mary’s initially functioned as a type of monastic hostel. King Charles II is claimed to have stayed there during his escape to France after the Battle of Worcester.
The Castle Inn Hotel
The Castle Inn Hotel is full of traditional ‘olde worlde’ features. It is not far from the Castle. This family run inn has been the centre of activity for the village for centuries.
The Inn sits next door now to an Indian restaurant. But that restaurant building (not shown in my image) used to house a taxidermy museum showing the work of local resident and taxidermist Walter Potter.
How To Re-use A Telephone Box
This ‘re-used’ telephone box sits at the edge of the car park almost opposite the Castle In Hotel. Steyning Area First Responders (a charity) bought three public telephone boxes/kiosks from British Telecom. These telephone boxes were actually due to be taken out of commission so re-using them is a great idea. All of the telephone boxes have been fitted with defibrillators housed in special heated cabinets. Local training has been provided so people can learn how to use them. What a wonderful idea!
You can read more about Bramber here.
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Before you go
My name is Dorothy Berry-Lound an artist and writer. You can find out more about my art and writing at https://dorothyberryloundart.com.
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Thank you for reading!
Really nice write up on Bramber. Well illustrated to go with the story. I just cannot imagine the telephone boxes with defibrillators in them.
Such a great idea though isn’t it? I have heard of them being used as mini libraries, tiny shops etc but this seems very practical. I like the fact people have been trained in what to do.