Mompesson House
Elegant 18th-century Georgian townhouse in Salisbury's Cathedral Close, famed for its period interiors and 'Sense and Sensibility' filming location.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Open days for house and garden
Mompesson House
Best Time
Open days for house and garden
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Elegant 18th-century Georgian townhouse in Salisbury's Cathedral Close, famed for its period interiors and 'Sense and Sensibility' filming location.
"A gem in Salisbury's Cathedral Close, offering a captivating glimpse into Georgian life and cinematic history."
☕ Enjoy the Tea-Room
Grab a coffee and a treat at the tea-room after your visit. Bargains can also be found in the bookshop!
📚 Browse the Bookshop
Discover second-hand treasures at the bookshop located on-site. A great place for a literary find!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Oak Staircase
Entrance Hall
Marvel at the impressive, carved oak staircase, a stunning example of Georgian craftsmanship.
Turnbull Collection of Drinking Glasses
Display Rooms
Admire an exceptional collection of 18th-century English drinking glasses, a unique historical display.
Sense and Sensibility Connection
Various Rooms
Explore rooms that featured as Mrs. Jennings' London townhouse in the 1995 film adaptation.
Secluded Queen Anne Garden
Rear of the House
Relax in the charming, north-facing garden, a peaceful oasis with roses and dahlias in bloom.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Events
Embrace the Georgian Elegance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Enjoy the Tea-Room
Grab a coffee and a treat at the tea-room after your visit. Bargains can also be found in the bookshop!
📚 Browse the Bookshop
Discover second-hand treasures at the bookshop located on-site. A great place for a literary find!
🚶♀️ Guided Tours are Worth It
Volunteers offer fantastic guided tours, sharing in-depth history and insights about the house.
♿ Accessible Entrance Available
A flat entrance is available for disabled visitors, ensuring accessibility for all.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Enjoy the Tea-Room
Grab a coffee and a treat at the tea-room after your visit. Bargains can also be found in the bookshop!
📚 Browse the Bookshop
Discover second-hand treasures at the bookshop located on-site. A great place for a literary find!
🚶♀️ Guided Tours are Worth It
Volunteers offer fantastic guided tours, sharing in-depth history and insights about the house.
♿ Accessible Entrance Available
A flat entrance is available for disabled visitors, ensuring accessibility for all.
📸 Capture the Georgian Charm
The elegant interiors and garden offer beautiful photo opportunities. Remember to be respectful of the space.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mompesson House for its well-preserved Georgian interiors, knowledgeable and friendly volunteers, and charming garden. The connection to 'Sense and Sensibility' and the unique Turnbull Collection are often highlighted as special features. While some note it's a smaller property, the overall experience is considered very worthwhile, especially for its historical ambiance and peaceful setting.
"Small museum showcasing a house furnished and decorated in the Regency period (early 1800s). The talk about the history of the building by the NT lady was very interesting. Lovely gardens outside with small cafe and second hand bookshop."
Martin Goodman
"A lovely National Trust place. Great staff, helpful and knowledgeable.
It's only a small property, but lovely.
Cafe and usual facilities, but sadly, no gift shop."
Lynn Mills (scouse_mouse)
"We decided to visit here as we were wandering around the town. The volunteers do an awesome job, from the welcome at the door to the information as we wandered through the house. The Trust have done an excellent job with the furnishing.
If you have time then worth a visit."
kiwisflythecoop nz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mompesson House is located in Salisbury's Cathedral Close, a beautiful and historic area. While there's limited parking nearby, it's easily accessible on foot if you're already exploring the cathedral. Public transport options to Salisbury are plentiful, and from the city center, it's a pleasant walk to the Close.
Parking directly at Mompesson House is limited. Visitors are advised to use public car parks in Salisbury city center and then walk to the Cathedral Close.
Absolutely! Mompesson House is situated right in the Cathedral Close, making it a very short and scenic walk from the cathedral itself.
Many visitors combine a visit to Mompesson House with exploring Salisbury Cathedral and the surrounding Close. Walking is the best way to experience the area.
Salisbury train station is a key transport hub, with regular services connecting to major cities. From the station, it's a walk or short taxi ride to the Cathedral Close.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For general visits, prior booking is usually not needed. Mompesson House is open from 11 am to 4 pm, Friday to Tuesday, with last entry at 3:30 pm. However, always check the National Trust website for any special events or changes.
Mompesson House is typically open from 11 am to 4 pm, Friday to Tuesday. During the festive season (November-December), hours might be slightly different, often closing earlier at 3:30 pm.
As a National Trust property, entry fees apply. Members of the National Trust get free admission. Non-members can purchase tickets on arrival or online via the National Trust website.
National Trust members enjoy free entry. Keep an eye on the National Trust website for any special offers or family ticket deals that might be available.
Yes, you can purchase tickets as a non-member. However, if you plan to visit multiple National Trust properties throughout the year, a membership can offer excellent value.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautifully preserved 18th-century interiors, period furniture, the impressive oak staircase, and the notable Turnbull Collection of drinking glasses. The house also served as a filming location for 'Sense and Sensibility'.
While Mompesson House offers a historical experience, it's best suited for older children who can appreciate the period details. The garden provides some space for younger ones to explore.
Mompesson House has toilets both inside and outside, a small cafe serving refreshments, and a second-hand bookshop.
Photography is generally allowed inside Mompesson House, but usually without flash to protect the delicate interiors and artifacts. Always check for specific signage.
A visit to Mompesson House typically takes about an hour to explore the house and garden. Guided tours can extend this time.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Mompesson House has a small cafe where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and light refreshments after your visit.
The cafe typically offers hot and cold drinks, cakes, and light snacks. It's a perfect spot to relax and recharge.
Salisbury city center, a short walk away, offers a wide range of restaurants, pubs, and cafes to suit all tastes and budgets.
Picnics are generally best enjoyed in designated areas or public parks outside the house itself. The cafe is available for purchased refreshments.
While specific options may vary, cafes at National Trust properties often have some vegetarian or vegan choices. It's best to inquire at the cafe directly.
📸 📸 Photography
The elegant Georgian interiors, the grand oak staircase, and the charming garden are all excellent subjects for photography. The exterior of the house in the Cathedral Close is also picturesque.
No, flash photography is generally not permitted inside Mompesson House to protect the historic furnishings and delicate artifacts.
Yes, the garden is a lovely spot for photography, especially when the roses and dahlias are in bloom during the summer.
While general photography is usually permitted without flash, it's always wise to check for any specific signage or ask a member of staff if you're unsure.
Its well-preserved Georgian architecture, period furnishings, and the tranquil garden provide a beautiful and authentic backdrop for capturing historical ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families include utilizing the on-site toilets and the cafe for a break. The accessible entrance is also a plus for families with strollers or mobility needs. Remember that it's a preserved historic house, so keeping a close eye on children is important to protect the delicate furnishings.
📚 Jane Austen Enthusiasts
+1Imagine the conversations, the social gatherings, and the dramatic moments that unfolded within these elegant Georgian walls. The house's authentic period furnishings and decor further enhance this immersive experience, allowing you to truly connect with the Regency era that Austen so vividly portrayed.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Lovers
+1Learn about the house's construction in 1701 and its subsequent restoration by Denis Martineau. The detailed information provided by knowledgeable volunteers further enriches the understanding of the house's past occupants and their way of life. It’s a chance to step back in time and appreciate the artistry and design of a bygone era.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Georgian Life
The house was purchased in 1952 by architect Denis Martineau, who meticulously restored and furnished it, leaving it to the National Trust upon his death. This dedication ensures that visitors experience an authentic representation of the period. The Turnbull Collection of 18th-century drinking glasses is another standout feature, offering a unique look at the social customs and craftsmanship of the time.
Beyond the interiors, the secluded north-face garden provides a peaceful retreat. In summer, it bursts with color from blooming roses and dahlias, offering a tranquil contrast to the historical richness within the house. It's a perfect spot to reflect on the lives lived within these elegant walls.
Mompesson House: A Star on Screen
+1This connection to the beloved Austen novel adds an extra layer of charm and intrigue for visitors. As you wander through the rooms, you can easily imagine the characters from the film moving through the same spaces, bringing the story to life. The house's authentic period details make it a perfect stand-in for a Regency-era London home.
For fans of historical dramas and literary adaptations, Mompesson House offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of Jane Austen and experience a piece of cinematic history. It's a testament to the house's enduring appeal and its ability to transport visitors to another time.
Festive Magic at Mompesson House
+1Visitors can explore rooms reimagined as festive scenes, such as the Green Room being turned into the Fezziwigs' Christmas ball. This immersive experience makes Mompesson House a particularly enchanting destination during the holiday months, offering a unique way to get into the festive spirit.
Special events, like sustainable wreath-making workshops, are often held during this period, sometimes offering exclusive access to the house. These events provide a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the festive atmosphere and create a seasonal keepsake.
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