Restoration efforts for Farnham's historic Wilmer House showcased in upcoming event

Free open event to highlight key conservation works at the Grade I listed site

Author: LDRS Chris Caulfield + Will HarrisPublished 23rd Aug 2026

Farnham’s Wilmer House, known as the UK's first and only craft museum, is set to host a special event showcasing crucial restoration efforts on the historic Grade I listed building.

The open event is scheduled for 14th September 2026 at Farnham Museum, running from 7.30pm to 9pm.

Hosted by Waverley Borough Council and The Farnham Society, the event aims to gather community support following the discovery of extensive structural issues requiring £700,000 in repairs.

Waverley Borough Council has recently intervened to cover costs not covered by the initial £700,000 Arts Council funding received in March 2023.

H2 Restoration plans

The efforts are part of the council's "every brick counts" campaign, allowing residents to contribute to the preservation of Wilmer House, a significant Georgian town house situated on West Street.

The restoration work focuses on addressing issues such as decaying brickwork, collapsing windows, eroded mortar joints, and visible cracking throughout the site.

Councillor Kika Mirylees highlighted the cultural significance of Wilmer House to Farnham, expressing excitement over the event, which offers residents a rare chance to hear directly from specialists involved in heritage conservation.

Event details

The free event will feature a panel of experts, including representatives from Arts Council England, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, conservation consultant Graham Abrey, historic brick conservator Emma Simpson MBE, and local historian Dr Roy Waight.

Simon Bradbury, vice chairman of The Farnham Society, noted the significance of Wilmer House as part of Farnham's heritage, particularly its exceptional Georgian brickwork.

Residents interested in attending the event must book in advance. It promises an evening filled with discussions and insights into the exciting restoration plans of this much-loved landmark.

Farnham’s Wilmer House, known as the UK's first and only craft museum, is set to host a special event showcasing crucial restoration efforts on the historic Grade I listed building.

The open event is scheduled for 14th September 2026 at Farnham Museum, running from 7.30pm to 9pm.

Hosted by Waverley Borough Council and The Farnham Society, the event aims to gather community support following the discovery of extensive structural issues requiring £700,000 in repairs.

Waverley Borough Council has recently intervened to cover costs not covered by the initial £700,000 Arts Council funding received in March 2023.

Restoration plans

The efforts are part of the council's "every brick counts" campaign, allowing residents to contribute to the preservation of Wilmer House, a significant Georgian town house situated on West Street.

The restoration work focuses on addressing issues such as decaying brickwork, collapsing windows, eroded mortar joints, and visible cracking throughout the site.

Councillor Kika Mirylees highlighted the cultural significance of Wilmer House to Farnham, expressing excitement over the event, which offers residents a rare chance to hear directly from specialists involved in heritage conservation.

Event details

The free event will feature a panel of experts, including representatives from Arts Council England, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, conservation consultant Graham Abrey, historic brick conservator Emma Simpson MBE, and local historian Dr Roy Waight.

Simon Bradbury, vice chairman of The Farnham Society, noted the significance of Wilmer House as part of Farnham's heritage, particularly its exceptional Georgian brickwork.

Residents interested in attending the event must book in advance. It promises an evening filled with discussions and insights into the exciting restoration plans of this much-loved landmark.

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