Bognor Regis, a charming seaside town in West Sussex, has been shaped by a cast of fascinating figures whose contributions have left lasting marks on its history and identity. Here’s a look at some of the most influential characters tied to this sunny coastal gem.
Sir Richard Hotham stands out as the visionary who transformed Bognor into a seaside resort. Born in 1722 in York, he made his fortune as a hatter in London before setting his sights on the quiet fishing village of Bognor in the 1780s. After finding the sea air restored his health, he decided to create a luxurious retreat for the elite, dubbing it "Hothamton." He poured his wealth into building grand terraces and a mansion (now part of Hotham Park), hoping to lure royalty and rival Brighton’s fame. Though he didn’t fully achieve that dream before his death in 1799, his efforts laid the foundation for Bognor Regis as we know it, earning him the nickname "Hotham the Hatter."
Then there’s King George V, whose visit in 1929 gave the town its regal suffix. Recovering from lung surgery, he spent three months at Craigweil House in Aldwick, drawn by the fresh sea breezes. His stay put Bognor on the map, attracting global attention, and when he granted the "Regis" title - meaning "of the King" - it cemented the town’s royal connection. Whether or not he grumbled "Bugger Bognor" (a story debated between a quip during his stay or a deathbed jab), his presence elevated Bognor’s status.
Mary Wheatland, known as "Bognor’s Mermaid," is another local legend. Born in 1835, she operated bathing machines - those Victorian contraptions for modest sea dips - on the beach for over 60 years. But it was her bravery that made her famous: she saved countless lives from drowning, earning admiration and a display at the Bognor Regis Museum. Her grit and compassion made her a beloved figure in the town’s Victorian heyday.
Billy Butlin, the holiday king, reshaped Bognor’s modern identity. Born in 1899 in South Africa, he arrived in Bognor in the 1930s, opening an amusement park and zoo before launching his iconic holiday camp in 1960. Butlin’s resort, with its affordable fun and flashy hotels like the Shoreline, turned Bognor into a go-to spot for working-class families, boosting tourism and giving the town a lively, nostalgic vibe that still lingers.
William Fletcher also deserves a nod. A wealthy benefactor in the early 20th century, he lived in Hotham Park House for over 40 years and left behind the stunning gardens of Hotham Park. His generosity enriched the town’s green spaces, making them a treasure for residents and visitors alike.
These characters - Hotham’s ambition, George V’s royal stamp, Wheatland’s heroism, Butlin’s flair, and Fletcher’s quiet legacy - wove a rich tapestry that turned a sleepy hamlet into "Glorious Bognor Regis." Their influence still echoes along the promenade and through the town’s sunny streets.