The 1793 fire broke out while the mansion was being refurbished for the 8th Viscount Montagu's wedding.
The house contained a famous series of paintings by Hans Eworth, many of which were lost or destroyed in the blaze.
The ruins are constructed primarily from local sandstone which remains vulnerable to weather erosion.
The site includes a 'Kitchen Tower' that retains much of its original internal architectural integrity despite the roof collapse.
Following the fire, the estate was sold and the ruins were left untouched for over two centuries, preventing the typical 'modernization' found in other period houses.
The Cowdray family name is linked to the estate via the 1st Viscount Cowdray, who purchased the property in 1909 to preserve the ruins.
The ruins are situated within the South Downs National Park.
Excavations have revealed evidence of an earlier medieval manor house beneath the current Tudor remains.
Cowdray Ruins are the remains of a significant Tudor mansion destroyed by a catastrophic fire in 1793. Located in Midhurst, West Sussex, these grade I listed ruins represent one of England's most important examples of early Tudor courtyard houses. The structure was originally built by Sir David Owen in the early 16th century and later expanded by the 1st Earl of Southampton. It served as a residence for Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. The site remains preserved as a ruin to stabilize the masonry following the fire that occurred during restoration works. Visitors can walk through the remains of the Great Hall and the kitchen, which contain rare original features. The grounds are part of the larger Cowdray Estate, which is still a working agricultural and sporting property.
The view from the lawn looking toward the Kitchen Tower and the Great Hall's arched windows.
Wear sturdy, flat-soled footwear as the ground consists of uneven grass and gravel surfaces.
Bring a portable umbrella or rain jacket, as the entire site is outdoors and exposed to the elements.
Check the official website for event closures, as the ruins are frequently used for private functions or film shoots.
Assuming the ruins are a roofed museum; they are entirely open-air and unsuitable for visiting during heavy rain.
Closed during the winter months (typically November through March); occasionally closed for private events or weddings.
Do not climb on the masonry or cross roped-off preservation zones; keep dogs on leads at all times.
