Our History

Shanly Homes began in 1969 when Michael Shanly, a determined young entrepreneur, purchased and refurbished a semi-detached house in Pinner, Middlesex. Using the proceeds, he bought land on Love Lane and built his first property, working tirelessly from a small office in South Harrow.

“In the early days, I used to work on location – run the sites, unload bricks, dig everything by hand, load the lorries by hand. That was the only way. I couldn’t afford any machinery.” – Michael Shanly

By the early 1970s, Shanly Homes focused on developments in the Thames Valley. In 1973, Michael partnered with businessman Jim Bonser to develop a dozen sites, including the first commercial property in Datchet, Berkshire.

In 1979, the company moved into a larger office in Beaconsfield, named “Sorbon”, a near-anagram of Bonser’s name. This marked the beginning of what would later become the commercial property arm of the Shanly Group.

By 1994, the company had grown significantly, and Sorbon Estates was formally incorporated as Michael Shanly Investments, expanding beyond residential developments. Its portfolio soon included:

• Moorings along the Thames
• Parking spaces
• Offices and shops
• Industrial units

Managed by a dedicated in-house team, this diversification laid the groundwork for long-term success. The business was later rebranded as Sorbon Estates, a name now synonymous with thoughtful property investment and stewardship.

In 2004, Sorbon Estates made its first retail acquisition in the vibrant market town of Marlow. At a time when online shopping was beginning to reshape consumer behaviour, Michael Shanly saw the importance of curating a high street experience that could withstand the test of time.

Rather than relying solely on traditional retail, the company began to nurture a destination-led approach, creating developments designed to attract visitors, support independent businesses, and strengthen local communities. This forward-thinking strategy continues to underpin Sorbon Estates’ retail philosophy today.

Sorbon Estates’ commitment extends beyond property. In 2017, in partnership with and fully funded by the Shanly Foundation, the company undertook a project unlike any other in its history: building a permanent home for Beech Lodge School in Maidenhead.

Founded by Daniela Shanly, Emma Barklem, and Lucy Barnes, Beech Lodge School offers an innovative and nurturing approach for children who thrive outside of traditional education settings. By providing the facilities for such an inspiring school, Sorbon Estates demonstrated its belief that property can and should serve a greater purpose: strengthening communities and improving lives.

Today, Sorbon Estates manages an extensive and diverse portfolio of commercial properties across Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, and beyond. With a strong focus on quality, sustainability, and community, we continue to create spaces where businesses can thrive, and town centres remain vibrant. Recent investments have included the comprehensive refurbishment of One Ludlow in Maidenhead, delivering modern, energy-efficient office space just minutes from the station, and the revitalisation of key retail locations that have welcomed exciting brands such as Mint Velvet and JAM Industries to Marlow’s High Street.

Our commitment to excellence and tenant care was recognised when Sorbon Estates was named Commercial Landlord of the Year at the Thames Valley Property Awards in September 2025, reflecting our proactive approach to property management and regeneration.

Today, our portfolio is home to a diverse mix of tenants, from national names like The White Company and Scamp & Dude to independent boutiques and wellness brands, ensuring our properties remain destinations where businesses and community’s flourish.

With decades of experience and a commitment to sustainability and placemaking, Sorbon Estates continues to grow while staying true to its founding principles.