More History

Here's a rich overview of the history of Craigweil House and its evolution into the modern Craigweil Private Estate:

The estate began as a coastal mansion built in the late 18th century by Barbara Kemp, Countess of Newburgh, who called it The Pavilion. She passed away in 1797.
In the early 19th century, it passed through various hands: the Reverend Henry Raikes, naval Captain Sir Alexander Dixie (a veteran of Trafalgar), and Colonel Austen .
By the 1870s, restored by Dr Alonzo Stocker, it served as a seaside convalescent retreat for his patients.

In 1915, industrialist and politician Sir Arthur du Cros, chairman of Dunlop, purchased the property.
Du Cros commissioned architects Morley Horder & Poulter in 1919 to add a third storey and extend the wings, creating a grand seaside mansion with private lawns and promenade.

After lung surgery in late 1928, King George V was advised to convalesce by the sea. Du Cros graciously lent Craigweil House for the monarch's recovery.
The King stayed from 9 February to 15 May 1929, accompanied by Queen Mary and even toddler Princess Elizabeth .
Notably, the King held a Privy Council meeting there, dissolving Parliament and knighted Henry Segrave.
This royal patronage led to Bognor being granted the suffix “Regis”—officially becoming Bognor Regis in July 1929 .

Following the King’s stay, the house was offered for sale in 1930 but found no buyer.
It suffered a damaging fire and was demolished by 1938 (Wikipedia says 1938, others 1939).
The organ was salvaged and installed at All Saints Church in Patcham as a memorial to George V.
The grounds were developed into a private housing estate spread across some 15–30 acres, known today as the Craigweil Private Estate .

The estate, especially around The Drive and adjacent roads, was designated a conservation area in 2001, preserving its early‑20th‑century character and royal legacy.
A century‑old oak tree still stands in one resident’s garden—reportedly walked past by King George and Princess Elizabeth—featured in local heritage projects .

Now a prestigious coastal enclave with direct beach access, grand residences, and mature landscape, the estate regularly references its royal ties in marketing .
Blue plaques and preserved trees help keep the story alive in Aldwick