Historic room at Mompesson House opens to the public after restoration

Visitors can explore newly restored North-East Bedroom from tomorrow

Author: Aaron HarperPublished 21 hours ago

Mompesson House, part of the National Trust, is unveiling a long-hidden part of its history as the newly restored North-East Bedroom opens to visitors on 12th June.

Restored to its eighteenth-century appearance, the room showcases original wall panelling and rare papier-mâché detailing, enhancing the understanding of historic craftsmanship and design. This marks the first time the room has been presented in this state since the house opened to the public in 1977.

The restoration project sheds light on the lives of Mompesson's former residents, including the Mompesson family, Bishops of Salisbury, and the last resident, Denis Martineau. Unique items from the collection, such as Barbara Townsend's Victorian watercolours and objects discovered beneath the floorboards, are now on display.

Georgiana Cooper, Collections and House Officer, expressed her excitement about the project, saying, "When I first saw the North-East Bedroom a few years ago, I was so intrigued by its potential, and to see that realised has been so exciting. I can’t wait for visitors to be able to see more of Mompesson than they ever have before."

Summer Events at Mompesson House

Alongside the new room opening, Mompesson House is offering a programme of summer events. Visitors can look forward to Mrs Portman’s Ball, a Regency-themed season, Summer of Play during the school holidays, live music in the garden, and two popular book fairs.

Mompesson House welcomes visitors from Friday to Tuesday, 11am to 4pm, until 1st November, with last entry at 3.30pm. Entrance is free for National Trust members, while normal admission fees apply for non-members. Booking in advance is not necessary.

For more information, visit the Mompesson House page on the National Trust website.

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