Welcome to Jurassic Farmhouse by Blue Firth, September 2026
The Jurassic Park of domestic architecture.
The endless summer continues, and although I’ve spent most days inside in a darkened room hiding from the sun, there is one thing that’ll coax me out. An open-air museum. I’m sure many of you will know this place, but it is totally worthy of mentioning as it’s just bloody brilliant.
Coddled amongst the bosomly South Downs, in an area truly of such outstanding beauty sits The Weald and Downland Museum. Famous for being the location of Tudor Monastery Farm and the home of The Repair Shop, this place would capture your heart without ever having been on the telly. It’s remit – to save vernacular architecture and showcase 1000 years of rural life. Started in the 1960’s on land loaned by Edward James (of West Dean that sits next door and is well worth visiting - it has the UK’s largest collection of Surrealist art!), it’s founder the late Dr. J.R. Armstrong wanted to rescue buildings that were destined for demolition and give them a new home – inadvertently creating a living history ruler of houses. From the 19th century to 950 AD you’ll stroll the 40 acres agog with delight watching the architectural specimens roam before your eyes like a bewildered Sam Neil and Laura Dern.
