Audience Hears of the Importance of Conserving Farnham Museum’s Building

Published on: 24 Sep, 2026
Updated on: 24 Sep, 2026

Willmer House Another Brick In The Wall Event from left to right: Roy Waight – local historian/Farnham and District Museum Society, Richard Hunt – chair of The Farnham Society, Peter Glanville – CEO Farnham Maltings, Emma Simpson – specialist brick conservator, Graham Abrey – conservation consultant.

By Chris Caulfield

local democracy reporter

It’s been called one of Surrey’s most important buildings, been dubbed a “Rolls Royce” Grade I listed gem, and even had ancient artwork sold off to fund its repairs – and now over 260 people attended an event highlighting its history, significance and restoration.

Farnham Museum’s home is Willmer House

Willmer House in Farnham was allowed to fall into disrepair, but in March 2023 benefited from £700,000 of Arts Council funding to allow essential repairs to its Georgian home in West Street.

However, early work soon found deeper lying problems on the site and its budget doubled as decaying brickwork, collapsing windows, and eroded mortar joints were discovered throughout.

Despite the soaring costs, Waverley Borough Council as owners had a duty to carry out the repairs – and launched a fundraising campaign called Every Brick Counts to help cover the costs.

Willmer House was converted into the Museum of Farnham after the council took over the site following the Second World War.

Its aim is to share Farnham’s history, and hosts an extensive art and craft collection.

The restoration work is needed to secure the buildings future and last week residents and heritage enthusiasts came together at Farnham Maltings as part of ‘Another Brick in the Wall: Restoring Willmer House’.

Cllr Kika Mirylees

Cllr Kika Mirylees (Farnham Residents, Farnham Firgrove), Waverley Borough Council portfolio holder for Community Services and Leisure, said: “It was wonderful to see so many people come together to share their interest in Willmer House and its future.

“The evening really demonstrated just how much history is contained within this remarkable building and why conserving it for future generations is so important.

“I’d like to thank our expert speakers, The Farnham Society and everyone who joined us and helped make the evening such a success.

“Through the Every Brick Counts campaign, there is still an opportunity for everyone to play a part in protecting this special piece of Farnham’s heritage.”

Richard Hunt, The Farnham Society chairperson added: “Not only did this show the real interest that exists in understanding the incredible challenges involved in restoration of amazing buildings such as we have in Farnham but it served as a real showcase for the talents of the people who undertake this work.

He added: “We are lucky to have this varied and noteworthy heritage in Farnham.

“We must do what we can during our time to pass it on to future generations.”