Kelmscott Manor (Kelmscott) - Visitor Information & Reviews

Museum details
Images
Visitor information
Exhibitions
Reviews

Kelmscott Manor and its collection

Source

Kelmscott Manor was the iconic country home of William Morris; poet, designer, craftsman, socialist and founding father of the Arts and Crafts movement. This Grade I listed house was loved by Morris as an example of traditional craftsmanship in harmony with the nearby village and surrounding landscape, towards the very upper reaches of the Thames. Today, visitors will find an outstanding collection. The Manor has so many intriguing stories to tell; its collections span over 300 years and reflect the lives, ideas, and creative legacy of those who lived and stayed there. Perhaps the most famous, is the portrait of Jane Morris by Rossetti, The Blue Silk Dress, which was completed in 1868 and is currently hanging in the White Room. The domestic charm and ambience of the house is still retained and having influenced Pre-Raphaelite art and design and the Arts & Crafts Movement, its legacy still very much treasured today. These internationally important works of art, design and personal possessions are on permanent display at the Manor from April to October; public open days are Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10.30am-5pm with pre-booked group visits on a Wednesday. Our purpose built Learning Barn has a variety of activities for all ages to enjoy including trails, jigsaws, craft making and drop in family workshops. Kelmscott Manor also boasts enchanting riverside gardens and the River Thames is located just a few hundred yards away.

Images of Kelmscott Manor

Visitor information Kelmscott Manor

Opening hours

Monday	Closed
Tuesday	Closed
Wednesday	Closed
Thursday	10:30 – 17:00
Friday	10:30 – 17:00
Saturday	10:30 – 17:00
Sunday	Closed

The Manor is open Thursday to Saturday from April until the end of October

More opening hours

Admission

5 – 16	£10.00
Adults	£15.50
Carers	Free
Family(2 adults, 2 children)	£36.00
Students	£10.00

Tickets prices shown excludes Gift Aid Ticket price. Ticket includes access to Manor house, meadows and formal gardens. If you want to only visit the gardens and grounds, entrance is free. Any donations are always gratefully received.

More ticket prices

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible

Museum shop

Parking

Coffee

Restaurant

Child-friendly

Location & Map

Kelmscott, Kelmscott

Discover all museums in Kelmscott

Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Kelmscott Manor have been found.

Kelmscott Manor Reviews

Kelmscott Manor has 2 ratings.

Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

Kelmscott Manor, located in the picturesque village of Kelmscott in England, is a well-preserved country house that offers visitors a glimpse into the life and work of William Morris, the renowned Victorian designer, craftsman, and writer. The manor, dating back to the late 16th century, served as Morris's summer home and a source of inspiration for his artistic endeavors.

Visitors often praise the authentic atmosphere of the house, which has been carefully maintained to reflect the aesthetic of the Arts and Crafts movement that Morris championed. The interiors showcase original Morris & Co. textiles, wallpapers, and furnishings, providing an immersive experience into the artist's design philosophy.

The gardens surrounding the manor are frequently highlighted as a particular delight, with their traditional English country charm and connections to Morris's nature-inspired designs. Many visitors enjoy exploring the grounds, which include a meadow and a small stream.

The museum's curators have done an commendable job in presenting informative exhibits about William Morris, his family, and his circle of friends, including Dante Gabriel Rossetti. This context enhances the visitor's understanding of the house's significance in the history of art and design.

However, some visitors note that the manor can get crowded during peak seasons, which may detract from the experience. Additionally, due to the historic nature of the building, accessibility can be limited for those with mobility issues.

The on-site tea room receives mixed reviews, with some praising the quality of refreshments while others find it somewhat overpriced.

Overall, Kelmscott Manor offers a rewarding experience for those interested in art history, design, and the life of William Morris. Its well-preserved interiors and beautiful setting make it a worthwhile destination for cultural enthusiasts and those looking to explore the English countryside.

Read more…
T

thomas • Jun 21, 2025

I visited Kelmscot for the first time quite a while ago before it became "funded" and therefore needed to become like every other tourist attraction. I was terribly disappointed on this visit - gone was the quiet atmosphere of a true rural retreat with accompanying gentle information - an atmosphere you felt warmly welcomed into. Its so terribly clinical now - the custodians watch you like hawks just in case you accidentally touch a doorway or a table top - every room is so empty and uninviting. The atmosphere has completely gone and it has become "plasticised" for want of a better word. It was once unique now its just another visit on the tourist trail. Not for me!!!!!

Visited on Jun 20, 2025
Aggregated rating

This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

Write a review

Your review helps other people learn about great and less great museums. If you've visited Kelmscott Manor, you can write your review below! Please pay attention to our content guidelines before you post your review.

Nearby and in or around Kelmscott

Discover museums near Kelmscott Manor in or around Kelmscott.

Discover all museums in Kelmscott

Kelmscott Manor

Kelmscott Manor and its collection

Images of Kelmscott Manor

Visitor information Kelmscott Manor

Opening hours

Admission

Facilities

Location & Map

Exhibitions

Kelmscott Manor Reviews

Write a review

Nearby and in or around Kelmscott

The Faringdon Collection

Buscot House

Swinford Museum

Royal Army Chaplains’ Museum

Uffington Museum

Tolsey Museum

Follow us

Language