Things to see inside Red House

Three visitors in the bedroom at Red House, London, with wall paintings visible behind them. — Exploring the bedroom at Red House | © National Trust Images/Rob Stothard

To explore the wonderful interiors of Red House you’ll need to pre-book a guided tour. Red House is the only house designed, built and lived in by William Morris, the pioneer of the Arts and Crafts movement. This was the birthplace of this decorative style and a haven for the Pre-Raphaelite artists. Expert and friendly volunteer guides will help you discover the unexpected at this special place.

Discover William Morris’ influential home

Built in 1860 for artist and designer William Morris, Red House was often host to the artists who brought about revolutionary changes to art, architecture and interior design through the Arts and Crafts movement.

Thanks to friendly and knowledgeable volunteer guides, you can discover how the decoration of the Morris’ family home influenced this talented group of friends to produce the incredible works of art they are known for today.

Layers of history revealed

On your tour you will uncover layers of history left behind by the different residents of the house since 1859. When the Morris family left the house in 1865, the house and garden went through decorative changes that have also left their marks on the furniture and decoration. Book your visit here.

White wooden settle in the drawing room at Red House in London — A settle designed by William Morris in the drawing room at Red House in London | © National Trust Images/Andreas von Einsiedel

Look out for the following as you explore

The staircase: Designed by the Red House’s architect, Philip Webb, the hand-carved newel posts on the staircase represent towers or turrets.
Etched graffiti: On her last ever visit to Red House, May Morris (one of William and Jane’s two daughters) scratched her name into a panel of the glass screen in the Pilgrim's Passage.
Intricate painted patterns: Standing out from the crowd are the intricately designed repeating patterns which William and Jane painted onto their ceilings.
Wall murals: William and Jane were given unusual wedding presents in the form of hand-painted furniture and wall murals in the style of the pre-Raphaelites, many of which are still visible today.
Unexpected treasures: Hidden behind a modern wardrobe in the main bedroom, the team at Red House discovered a forgotten wall painting designed as if painted on fabric.

Book your visit

Please note you need to book tickets to visit Red House. You can book for today up until 8am. Every Thursday time slots will be available for the next 14 days.

Check availability and book