We are planning a slightly longer journey to visit Kelmscott Manor, which is situated in the Cotswolds in an idyllic countryside setting a short stroll from the River Thames. It dates from around 1570 with a late 17th-century wing and is most famous as the country home of the writer, designer and socialist William Morris from 1871 until his death in 1896.
The interior furnishings are one of the most appealing features of Kelmscott. Many of the rooms are exactly as they were when Morris lived here and they are filled with samples of his work, including many original tapestries, textiles, wall-hangings, designs and artwork as well as much of his furniture.
We are planning a midday guided tour aiming to arrive soon after 11.30am as we are required to be there at least half-an-hour before the tour, which will start at 12.15pm. The car park is situated on the edge of the village and is an 8-10 minute level walk from the manor. However, there is an electric shuttle service to and from the manor for visitors who would find the walk difficult.
Following the tour we will have a buffet lunch and then time to look around the gardens or even take the short walk back towards the car park and visit Morris’s burial place in St George’s churchyard. Naturally, there is a gift shop as well! We aim to leave at 4pm.
Cost: £65
| Coach departure places and times | |
| 8.45am | Brockham Middle Street near junction with Oakdene Road |
| 8.55am | Dorking outside Dorking Halls |
| 9.00am | Dorking opposite Waitrose |
| 9.05am | Dorking Knoll Road bus stop (on Horsham Road between Harrow Road East and Tower Hill Road) |