Gilbert White's House & Gardens - Alton

Becky T.

We spent about 1:20 in the museum and house, reading the informative signs on Gilbert White and the Oates family. We were surprised that it was about 50/50 between ecologist Gilbert White and the later Oates family (who purchased the house and were explorers/nature-lovers in their own right). Though there wasn’t tons of information about Gilbert White’s personal life, it was quite informative on his works, people he interacted with or later impacted, such as Oates, Thomas Bell, Darwin.

Gardens: We weren’t able to spend much time given our schedule, but looked like an extensive (dog-friendly) walk.

Ticket prices are a little steep, but if wanting to learn about his life, impact in ecology, and walk the gardens it is a nice afternoon out.

Cafe has hot drinks, cakes, and a handful (2-3?) of lunch options. Indoor and outdoor seating.

Car park behind house. It is a paid lot, but if visiting house just include registration details at visitor desk for free parking.

Facilities: Clean toilets in cafe area and inside house.

Sue O.

I love this place! Anyone who loves gardens or is interested in ecology MUST go! Fascinating exhibitions about Gilbert White, the father of ecology, but also displays about Captain Oates of the ill-fated Antarctic expedition, and Frank Oates, naturalist and explorer. Such a wonderful and relaxing day!

Sue H.

We had a wonderful day at Gilbert White’s house. There was so much to see, the house was quirky and the museum was very interesting. It captivated my two granddaughters as well as myself. The grounds are so beautiful and my younger granddaughter completed an Easter trail. My only criticism is of the cafe, the prices I get are extortionate, £45 for the three of us to have a light lunch (two quiche and side salad and one sandwich, plus drinks)

Lisa J.

It was such a wonderful day out. There is so much to see, and there are some nice little extras for younger children as well. The house is quirky but full of history.
Cafe was nice and great service from staff.
Do not pay in the carpark as when you enter the house itself, you pop in your reg for free parking. But if you do end up paying for parking, they allow you to still add your reg to extend your stay, so not all bad.
It took us 2 hours with a cafe stop first. Gardens are lovely as well and have little areas to explore. Highly recommend.

T H.

This is a fascinating place. Not only does this house celebrate the life and work of the naturalist Gilbert White. It also feature details of the achievements of Captain Frank Oates and his African travels, and that of Lawrence Oates who joined Scott on his tragic Antarctic journey. So there is something of interest for everyone. There is a large garden with some interesting features as well. So plan to spend a few hours here, and take a break in the nice café on site. Note that the parking is a bit further down the road, behind the Selborne Arms pub, and you must register your car upon arrival at the museum to get free parking.

Elizabeth W.

Really lovely day out - where possible in a listed building accsess is good but would suit ambulatory wheelchair users better than full time as some of the exhibition space in the house is up stairs - there is a computer with a video of the upstairs spaces , downstairs. Accessible toilet in the cafe & a modified toilet with more room and grab bar in the old house.

Gemma C.

Very informative. I really recommend this place to everyone. Your ticket is valid for a year or you can get just a day ticket(as stated on the website). Lot's to see and do. Interactive displays for children, extremely educational. Lovely gardens, free parking, cafe etc

Allan

A lovely house and gardens located in the heart of beautiful Selborne village and commemorating the work of 18th century naturalist, Gilbert White. The house is interesting and details the work of White and other explorers and naturalists. The gardens are extensive and quite easy to walk around, but not formal as they were designed to encourage and support the local insect and animal wildlife. There is also a nice cafeteria with inside and outside seating. Well worth a visit.