Knight Frank has been appointed by St Paul’s Cathedral to lead a long-term masterplanning project for the Tillingham Estate in Essex, one of Britain’s oldest continuously owned estates and a cornerstone of the Cathedral’s historic property portfolio.
The 1,200-acre estate, made up of three let farms and a collection of rural homes on the Dengie Peninsula, has been owned by St Paul’s since 604 AD, when it was gifted by King Æthelberht of Kent, the first Anglo-Saxon king to convert to Christianity. Over the centuries, income from the estate has supported the Cathedral’s work in worship, education and restoration, including Sir Christopher Wren’s rebuilding of St Paul’s after the Great Fire of London.
Today, Tillingham remains a living link between the Cathedral’s city congregation and the countryside that has sustained it for more than 1,400 years. The masterplanning project, led by Knight Frank’s Rural Consultancy, will explore how the estate can continue to play an active role in that partnership through sustainable farming, nature recovery and heritage conservation.
The work will include a review of the estate’s land use and natural capital potential, options for more sustainable and tenant-led farming, renewable energy generation, public access and opportunities to integrate education and community engagement with the Cathedral’s wider mission. The masterplan will also consider how these initiatives can deliver measurable environmental outcomes and long-term financial resilience.
Rebecca Thompson, Director of Property at St Paul’s Cathedral, said: “The Tillingham Estate embodies centuries of ecclesiastical, agricultural and social development. Its continued stewardship ensures it remains a vital part of the Cathedral’s legacy, supporting our role as a religious, historical and cultural landmark in London.
“Our vision is for the estate to contribute to St Paul’s mission through sustainable farming practices and heritage conservation efforts. Working with Knight Frank, we can explore opportunities that strengthen the estate’s contribution to the Cathedral’s purpose and community outreach.”
Katie Bundle, Senior Surveyor at Knight Frank said: “It is a privilege to support St Paul’s Cathedral in shaping the next stage of Tillingham’s remarkable story. The Estate’s history provides an extraordinary foundation for a future that integrates productive land use with biodiversity enhancement and heritage value. This project reflects the growing importance of long-term, purpose-driven estate management.”
Ms Thompson added: “Our masterplanning project with Knight Frank will lead us to a sustainable, resilient estate with a positive legacy for future generations.”
Knight Frank’s Rural Consultancy provides strategic advice to estates, landowners and institutions across the UK, helping them make informed, long-term decisions about estate strategy, diversification, natural capital and sustainable land use. For more information, visit https://www.knightfrank.co.uk/commercial/rural-property