Things to see and do at Mompesson House

Close view of Charles Mompesson's monogram in the wrought-iron gates at the front of Mompesson House — Charles Mompesson's monogram in the wrought-iron gates at the front of Mompesson House | © National Trust Images/Nadia Mackenzie

Step back in time as you explore this 18th-century town house and tranquil walled garden with a tea-room in the heart of Salisbury’s historic Cathedral Close.

Join an introductory talk

Throughout the day friendly and knowledgeable volunteers will be giving short introductory talks, giving an insight into the history of the house and the previous occupants who called Mompesson home.

What to look out for in the house

You'll be able to explore the entrance hall, dining room, large drawing room, small drawing room and library and go up the beautiful oak staircase to two bedrooms and a reception room. You might recognise some of the rooms from their appearance in the award-winning adaptation of Sense and Sensibility.

Wander through the atmospheric rooms to discover magnificent plasterwork, fine period furniture and a graceful oak staircase. Don’t miss the Bessemer Wright collection of 18th-century porcelain and the Turnbull collection of 18th-century drinking glasses which are of national importance.

Collection of 18th-century drinking glasses displayed in the Dining Room at Mompesson House, Wiltshire — Collection of 18th-century drinking glasses displayed in the Dining Room at Mompesson House | © National Trust Images/Peter Cook

Stroll through the garden

Head outside to discover a delightful walled garden hidden behind this 18th-century town house, featuring a pergola and traditionally planted herbaceous borders. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre and unwind in this peaceful spot. In autumn months, the garden is a riot of colour as orange calendula mingle colourful dahlias. There are outdoor games for all to enjoy while the weather lasts.

A bright yellow sunflower against the pergola wall of Mompesson House, Wiltshire — A sunflower in the garden of Mompesson House | © National Trust/ Emma James

Treat yourself in the tea-room

Our tea-room is located in the former summerhouse. Sit inside and look through the beautiful French windows, or take a table outside. The tea-room serves hot and cold drinks, cakes and bakes and light lunches. Gluten-free and vegan options are available.

Browse our second-hand books

The Studio Bookshop at Mompesson is home to a wide range of second-hand books. From cooking to crime, find yourself a bargain with suggested prices of paperbacks at £2 and hardbacks at £3. Mompesson House souvenirs are also available in our bookshop.

Accessibility at Mompesson House

There are two spaces for Blue Badge holders right in front of the property, on a flat tarmac surface. Please phone the property in advance if you require one of these spaces. The house is accessible via a ramp through the back entrance, which a member of staff will direct you to.

The garden and tea-room are accessible. A ramp is available to the second-hand bookshop. Inside the house, the Entrance Hall, Small Drawing Room, Large Drawing Room and Dining Room are accessible for wheelchairs. We can provide a tablet with images of the upstairs rooms. There is an accessible toilet in the courtyard. Busy and quiet areas are marked up on a map in the second-hand bookshop, which is a quiet area.

Walk around Cathedral Close

Explore the famous Cathedral Close, soak up the history and take in the sights on a short circular walk. See Choristers’ Green, enjoy spectacular views of the Cathedral and River Avon and pass by historic houses including the former home of Prime Minister Sir Edward Heath.

Further afield, the closest National Trust properties of Stourhead and Kingston Lacy are well worth a visit.