Richard Cobden: Sussex Free Trade Campaigner – 13 June to 13 September 2026

This summer, the Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester, invites visitors to discover the remarkable life and legacy of one of Sussex’s most influential political figures in a new exhibition, Richard Cobden: Sussex Free Trade Campaigner.

From Saturday, 13 June through to the Sunday, 13 September, visitors can explore the exhibition, in the Museum’s Gateway Gallery as part of their visit.

Marking the 180th anniversary of the repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846, the exhibition explores the story of Richard Cobden (1804–1865), the radical politician, manufacturer and champion of free trade who was born near Heyshott in West Sussex. Through fascinating historical interpretation and local connections, visitors will learn how a boy from humble farming origins became one of the most significant political campaigners of the nineteenth century.

The exhibition is jointly funded by the Weald & Downland Living Museum and Leeds Beckett University and has grown out of a major Arts and Humanities Research Council project, The Letters of Richard Cobden Online, led by Leeds Beckett university in partnership with the University of East Anglia.

“The Letters of Richard Cobden team are very excited to bring this exhibition to Cobden’s home county of West Sussex. This was not only his birthplace but became increasingly important to him as a retreat from the bustle and stress of Westminster. It was also a base from which he corresponded with fellow reformers across Britain, Europe and the United States.” Simon Morgan, Professor of Modern British History at Leeds Beckett University.

Richard Cobden is best remembered as the leader of the Anti-Corn Law League, which campaigned for free trade in food during the ‘Hungry Forties’, but his public career embraced much more. Nationally, he supported educational reform, press freedom and the extension of the vote. Internationally, he was a leading figure in the peace movement, a critic of British foreign policy, and an opponent of slavery and imperialism.

Although he became famous as a leader of the ‘Manchester School’, Cobden was the son of a West Sussex farmer and retained strong links to the county throughout his life. Born at Dunford Farm near Midhurst in 1804, he began his working life in his uncle’s calico warehouse in London before establishing himself in the textile trade in Lancashire.

After settling in Manchester, Cobden became a prominent Liberal campaigner, helping secure the creation of the city’s first elected municipal council before emerging as the leading force behind the Anti-Corn Law League between 1839 and 1846. The League campaigned to remove import duties on grain and other goods, which were widely seen as a tax on the food of the poor and a barrier to trade.

Following the repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846, Cobden purchased Dunford Farm and transformed it into a country retreat. He divided his time between Sussex, London and the north of England, where he maintained both political and family connections. Described by his neighbour Samuel Wilberforce, Bishop of Oxford, as “The Great Sussex Englishman”, Cobden died in 1865 and is buried in the churchyard at West Lavington.

This exhibition follows The Letters of Richard Cobden Online (1804–1865): An Exploration of Active Citizenship, led by Leeds Beckett University and the University of East Anglia and funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council. The current exhibition has been part-funded by Leeds Beckett University and draws upon research undertaken through the project. The project website (www.cobdenletters.org) includes fully searchable transcripts of 5,500 of Cobden’s letters, alongside teaching materials to support lessons in History and Citizenship at Key Stage 3.

The exhibition not only explores Cobden’s extraordinary rise from rural Sussex to national prominence but also examines the wider social and economic impact of the Corn Laws. Visitors are encouraged to consider how debates around trade, tariffs and the cost of living continue to resonate in today’s increasingly interconnected world.

“Richard Cobden’s story is one of determination, conviction and social change. As we mark 180 years since the repeal of the Corn Laws, this exhibition provides an opportunity to explore the life of a remarkable Sussex figure whose ideas continue to have relevance today.” Julian Bell, Museum Curator.

 

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Information for Visitors

Discover 40 acres of history, nature, and countryside charm at the Weald & Downland Living Museum near Chichester, West Sussex. Explore our collection of historic buildings, working farm animals, and heritage gardens, and experience what rural life was like in centuries past.

Come Rain or Shine You Can Explore and Enjoy

Stroll through our beautiful open-air museum, where you can see authentic period homes, workshops, and barns set within the stunning South Downs landscape. Enjoy peaceful woodland walks, spot wildlife, or visit the woodland play area — perfect for children to explore and learn through play.

Meet Our Working Animals

Look out for our Heavy Horses, Sheep, and Ducks, who help bring the Museum to life. Visitors can even feed the ducks on the mill pond — grain can be purchased in the Museum shop.

Relax and Refuel

Take a break at our waterside café, serving delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic, with plenty of scenic spots around the site to enjoy. During the warmer months, Shepherd’s Hut kiosks offer takeaway drinks and snacks around the Museum.

Useful Visitor Information

• Dogs on short leads are very welcome across the site.
• Free parking is available for all visitors.
• Please note: the Museum is a no-smoking site.
• Visitors with accessibility needs can find detailed information on our Accessibility page.

Please note that all activities and demonstrations are subject to change and may vary depending on the weather or season.