Our History
Distinguished History
Mr Eastman from Unilever Personnel, looking for a management development center came across the estate in 1954 and made the decision that has since defined the purpose of FOUR ACRES.
Built in 1927 by a World War I Naval Commander Holdbrook (the recipient of the Victoria Cross), as a family home. The manor house is unmistakeably an Elizabethan Arts and Crafts home. The formal gardens extend around the building and incorporate a gate house and a carriage house.
FOUR ACRES was abandoned at the outbreak of World War II and was used first by the Dutch Government in exile, then the American Military and finally by Kingston Council first as a hospital and then as temporary housing. The Americans added a bar and a bowling alley (now the West Dining room and the Yoga Studio)
By 1954 with, some bomb damage and general neglect the future of FOUR ACRES was at a precarious juncture and the building could easily have been demolished had it not been for the intervention of Unilever.
Four Acres
After a year of renovation, FOUR ACRES opened in 1955 as the Unilever Management Training Centre. In those early days courses could last several weeks and delegates enjoyed the home from home feel and the space to explore.
In these early years, delegates were able to enjoy the bowling alley, the snooker table and the English bar, left behind by the Americans.
The Jubilee building was added in 1979, providing further bedroom accommodation, a modern learning suite and a large amphitheatre, that was later styled on the Harvard Auditorium.
For over 70 years, FOUR ACRES has been the home for Leadership Development and the Great Conversations that have shaped and steered Unilever. It is held in fond regard by thousands of alumni across Unilever and beyond.
Present Day
In 2020 the decision was taken to refurbish Four Acres and to future fit the site. Retaining the home away from home feel, the space and the safety to have big conversations and preserving the beautiful buildings for the next generation were key drivers. Making Four Acres available to business partners and making more of the site to promote and develop wellness are a key part of the new business model and facilities.
Re-opened in March 2022, Four Acres is as beautiful as ever, available to hire exclusively or single meeting room to anyone looking to step up their commitment to learning and sustainability will find some great opportunities here.