West Horsley Place, a historic manor house in Surrey once owned by Henry VIII, has seen a remarkable revival attributed largely to the success of the British comedy series *Ghosts* and its recently released film adaptation. The estate, which serves as the fictional Button House in the show, has become a focal point for fans and heritage enthusiasts alike.
The property was inherited in 2014 by the late Bamber Gascoigne, the original host of *University Challenge*, who received it from his great aunt, the Duchess of Devonshire. Before his death in 2022, Gascoigne established a charitable trust to oversee the preservation and restoration of West Horsley Place. His efforts raised millions to fund renovations, open the estate to the public, and create an arts center on the 400-acre grounds.
Despite Gascoigne’s foresight and philanthropic work, it was the popularity of *Ghosts*—a comedy about the resident spirits of a dilapidated manor and its contemporary owners—that significantly boosted the estate’s fortunes. Filming at West Horsley Place began in 2019 under challenging conditions, with no heating, electricity, or modern restroom facilities. Since then, the trust has gradually introduced public events such as tours, craft fairs, and community outreach programs. A new opera house was also constructed on the grounds.
Clare Clinton, deputy director of the estate, emphasized the vital role of *Ghosts* fans in supporting the manor’s upkeep. “The niceness of the loos is entirely down to *Ghosts*,” she said, highlighting the funds raised through tourism inspired by the show. The film version, *Ghosts: The Possession of Button House*, topped the UK box office shortly after its release, reflecting the series’ enduring appeal.
Visitors from across the UK and beyond have flocked to the site, many dressing in costumes that reference characters from various historical periods featured in the show. Among the enthusiasts are school-age fans such as Florence Dewett and Phoebe Harris, who traveled from Derbyshire to tour the house, donning distinctive outfits inspired by the show’s brief Luftwaffe airmen characters. Volunteer guides also participate in the spirit—one often dresses as a witch-trial victim portrayed in the series.
Tours of the manor combine discussion of the historic estate’s noteworthy past, including its Saxon roots and connections to figures such as Elizabeth I and Sir Walter Raleigh, with behind-the-scenes insights into the filming of *Ghosts*. Visitors, ranging from families to lifelong fans, appreciate the opportunity to engage intimately with the space, encouraged to explore furnishings and books—more than 12,000 volumes left by the Duchy—to gain a tactile sense of the property’s heritage.
The trust maintains a careful balance between preservation and accessibility, deliberately rejecting a fully restored “pristine” appearance to retain the manor’s character. However, the extensive work required to remove West Horsley Place from the Historic England Heritage “at risk” list is expected to cost upwards of £20 million. Increased visitation driven by *Ghosts* plays a crucial role in funding ongoing repairs, with events such as a recent £12 “Ghostly Get Together” attended by hundreds and a premium Halloween sleepover generating additional support.
Looking ahead, the trust expressed hope for further cinematic or televisual projects related to *Ghosts*, acknowledging the positive impact such productions have had on raising awareness and resources. The enthusiasm among fans of all ages suggests the manor’s connection with the show will continue to draw visitors and vital funding for the foreseeable future.