The Ruins of Michelgrove

The Ruins of Michelgrove are the remnants of one of the largest and most renowned houses in the county, which served as the home of the Shelley family from the late 15th century until 1800. The house was likely constructed around 1540 by Sir William Shelley, who was a Justice of the Common Pleas. It underwent alterations and expansions by Sir John Shelley in the 18th century and by Richard Walker of Liverpool between 1800 and 1828. In 1828, the property was acquired by the 12th Duke of Norfolk, who subsequently had it demolished. The impressive staircase added by Richard Walker is believed to have been relocated to Burton Park in Petworth Rural District during that period. Today, the only remnants of Michelgrove consist of a castellated wall made of red brick faced with Roman cement, featuring three blocked 4-centred archways with dripstones above. At the north end, there is a squat octagonal turret topped with a castellated parapet. These remains are likely part of one of the flanking wings or pavilions that were added or modified during the 18th or early 19th century renovations.