St Paul’s Cathedral has appointed Knight Frank to lead a long-term masterplanning project for the Tillingham Estate in Essex.
The 1,200-acre estate, which comprises three farms and a collection of rural homes on the Dengie Peninsula, has been owned by St Paul’s since 604AD.
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.
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.
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 added: “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.”
