Coghurst Hall

From Historical Hastings
[[File:{{{image}}}|300x375px]]
Location
Loading map...



Originally constructed for Musgrave Brisco, upon the remarriage of Musgrave's widow to Charles Frewen, became the seat of Charles Hay Frewen, Esq., J.P., described as a commodious mansion, situated in a fine park. The house sat at the end of a long drive with the gatehouse situated on The Ridge. Most of the ​building​s have now been demolished, but it is believed parts survive and are incorporated into the holiday camp now on the site.


The estate was acquired by the senior Musgrave Brisco on his marriage to the heiress of Edward Dyne from Westfield, who in turn had married the heiress of the original owner - a William Fletcher.

Detailed History

Upon Musgrave's death, the property was passed to Wastel Brisco and eventually to Musgrave Brisco jun.

The younger Musgrave rebuilt the hall around 1836 using Cumberland stone and it became his residence, he acquiring the nickname "The Squire of Coghurst"[1]. Upon his death, the hall remained in the hands of his wife (Frances) until her death when it passed into the hands of Musgrave's younger brother Wastel.

19th Century Tourism

A visitor's guide published in the Hastings & St Leonards Observer during 1869 states the following[2]:

Coghurst. A beautiful domain, one mile north-east of the cemetery.

20th Century

During 1924, the property together with 25 farms, several cottages and 400 acres of woodland, the total land being around 2,500 acres was offered for sale at auction. The principal property was described as having four reception rooms, eighteen bedrooms and two bathrooms and associated offices by the auctioneers[3]

The property was partially demolished at some point during the early 1950s, with the gatehouse remaining for a few years longer being demolished later in that decade.

In 1953, outline planning permission was granted for the usage of the estate as a holiday centre and country club.

Images

References & Notes

  1. Brett Manuscript Histories Vol. 3 Chap. 38
  2. Hastings & St Leonards Observer 12 March 1869 pg. 4
  3. British Newspaper Archive Country Life 16 August 1924 Pg. 0005