Heritage Open Days at Polesden Lacey 2024
On the 7th and 8th September Polesden Lacey are celebrating the local area, by opening its doors and inviting community groups to talk about the important work that they do and there will also be lots of entertainment and fun activities to join in.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
Polesden Lacey was left to the National Trust by Mrs Greville in 1942 in memory of her father, the brewer William McEwan, and she wanted people to come and enjoy the wonderful grounds. So, grab your picnic and get ready for live music on the south lawn, 2-4pm, with The Polka Dots on Saturday and Jaz2 on Sunday. Summer of Play continues for the little ones in Crab Apple orchard, there will also be a dog show and our ever-popular mini-golf. Three community groups will have stands here, The Orpheus Centre, The Grange Bookham and St Catherine’s Hospice. Come and learn more about their work and give them your support. There will also be a Volunteer Recruitment stall, a Membership Stall and a Second hand bookshop stall. Our Rangers team will be here too and would love to meet you.
Times
The basics
- Accessibility
Gardens 10.00-17.00, House 11.00-15.30
- Other
A house has existed in this beautiful valley for hundreds of years but it was its last owner, the society hostess Mrs Greville, who transformed the house into a luxurious country retreat fit for maharajahs and kings. Many 'astounding inventions' of the day underpinned this transformation, including the installation of an elevator. Margaret Greville died on 15 September 1942 and she left Polesden Lacey to the National Trust. Her wish was for the house and estate to be open 'for the largest number of people to have enjoyment thereof.
Upcoming events
Summer of Play
This summer we’re creating a hub of play in Crab Apple Orchard, inspired by the fantastical world of Grizwald and Griffins, so there’s bound to be something fun available for the whole family.
The Last Tree and the Art of Nature in collaboration with Luke Adam Hawker
Join us for a special collaboration with best-selling author and renowned artist Luke Adam Hawker.
Mrs Greville’s Apartment and Royal Suite Tours
This year we have 2 separate tours to visit areas in the house that are not normally open to visitors. However, please note - these tours are SUBJECT TO VOLUNTEER AVAILABILITY.