Celebrating 230 Years
In 2025, Anstey Horne is celebrating a huge milestone — 230 years in business!
That’s over two centuries of helping shape the UK’s buildings and skyline. From Georgian London to the modern cityscape, we’ve been part of the journey every step of the way.
A Look Back to 1795
Our story starts way back in 1795 when Mr. Pullen set up shop as an auctioneer in Little Moorfields — now part of modern-day Moorgate.
It’s the same year the poet John Keats was born just down the road. London was a very different place back then, but the foundations of Anstey Horne were already being laid.
Making a Name in the 1800s
By the mid-19th century, the firm had grown into Pullen, Horne & Eversfield and was known for handling high-profile sales. In 1860, we even auctioned off the effects of the late Duke of Wellington — one of the most famous military leaders in British history.
Other big-name clients followed, including the Royal Mint, Newgate Prison, and even the Crystal Palace. We built a reputation for being trusted with the most important projects.
Leading the Way in the 1900s
After the First World War, Bryan Anstey joined the firm, and in 1964 the name officially became Anstey Horne. His son, John Anstey, later took the reins in 1973 and became a major figure in the world of rights to light and party wall surveying.
John helped drive the introduction of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, which is still the go-to legislation for resolving construction disputes between neighbours. He went on to co-found the Pyramus & Thisbe Club, a professional group that brings together surveyors passionate about party wall matters.
John’s influence on specialist rights to light & party wall surveying continues to this day as his books on the subject are the foundation for many new entrants to the field.
Back to Our Roots – and Looking Ahead
In 2017, we moved our head office to Chiswell Street — just around the corner from where it all started in Moorfields. It was a great way to come full circle and reconnect with our roots.
Today, Anstey Horne is known for much more than auctioneering. Our team leads the way in rights to light, daylight and sunlight assessments, party wall advice, fire engineering, cost consultancy and building surveying. We also help clients navigate complex planning and development issues with expert insight and innovative thinking.
Celebrating 230 Years and Still Going Strong
Celebrating 230 years is a rare achievement, and we’re proud of everything the firm has stood for over the centuries — professionalism, trust, and staying at the forefront of our industry. While the buildings have changed, our commitment to helping people shape the built environment remains the same.
Here’s to the next chapter in the Anstey Horne story!
For more information on our event celebrating 230 years please call Emma on 0121 667 9902
Emma Alford
Operations Manager
Business Support