Discover the beautifully restored house and gardens of natural history pioneer Gilbert White. Regarded as the ‘Father of Ecology’, White’s book ‘The Natural History of Selborne’ is the fourth most published book in the English language! The book is a series of letters and observations between White and his fellow naturalists, Thomas Pennant and Daines Barrington, exploring wildlife in their local areas and how the species responded to changing seasons (phenological observations). 

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A testament to White’s legacy, ‘The Natural History of Selborne’ has never been out of print since its first publication in 1789. White is also renowned for major discoveries, including identifying the harvest mouse, chiff chaff and noctule bat. 

Located in Selborne, a stunning corner of the South Downs National Park, Gilbert White’s 17^th century home is now a museum open to visitors. Museum highlights include, the original manuscript of ‘The Natural History of Selborne’, White’s 18^th century floral embroidered bed covers and White’s taxidermy hawfinch. 

The museum also hosts collections belonging to Lawrence Oates, who was part of the fateful Terra Nova expedition to the South Pole, and the collection of Lawrence’s uncle, Frank Oates, who was a naturalist. There are also interactives, original footage and children’s trails in the museum and gardens.

The extensive 18^th century gardens (25 acres) have also been restored to their former glory for visitors to explore, with cottage, herb and kitchen gardens, as well as sweeping lawns and a wildflower meadow. 

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Food and Drink

Visitors can enjoy brunch, lunch and afternoon tea at the café. There are also kids options available. Dogs are welcome in the café. There is also a farm shop where local produce can be purchased.

Pop in for a pint at the Jubilee Tap, after a visit to the museum! Located just across the High Street, opposite the museum, the Tap Room is a friendly and relaxed bar, where the public can try the Gilbert White range of beers from the 1765 brewhouse. Brewing was a part of White's life and something in which he took pleasure in. By opening the Tap Room visitors can now fully experience one of White's past times and step back into history by tasting brews made with his recipes. Tap Room opening times: Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 5.30pm-9pm, last orders 8.30pm.

Shopping

The museum shop is unique, in selling gifts including books, clothes, toys, stationary, and art, that have all been inspired by the natural world. The museum takes pride in selling its own gin, beer, jams, honey and plants that have been made, brewed, mixed or cultivated onsite. 

Events 

Events are held throughout the year, from outdoor theatre to talks to children’s trails. Our biggest annual events include the family friendly Nature Day and the Unusual Plants Fair. The museum also takes part in the annual Jane Austen Regency Week, as both White and Austen had shared connections to places and people in the area. 

Ticket Prices

Adult Full Entry: £18

Concession (student or over 60) Full Entry: £17

Under 16 Full Entry: £6

Under 5: Free

Garden Only ticket: £12

Family Ticket (2 adults + up to 3 children) Full Entry: £38

These tickets are valid for one year from the date of purchase, excluding special event days. On your return please present your ticket along with a form of ID. There are also special rates under the membership scheme and for groups.

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Opening Times

1 Nov – 31 Mar, open Tuesday to Sunday, 10.30am – 4.30pm

1 Apr – 31 Oct, open Tuesday to Sunday, 10.30am – 4:30pm

During July to the end of September the house and gardens are also open on Mondays.