Gilbert White's House & Gardens

Gilbert White's House & Gardens sits in the village of Selborne, in the South Downs National Park. It is the home of the 18th-century naturalist who wrote The Natural History of Selborne, and the house has been turned into a museum that tells his story across several rooms. Children can explore the rooms and the Discovery Room, and the museum also holds the Oates Collections, with objects from the Antarctic expedition of Lawrence Oates and natural history specimens from his uncle Frank Oates. Outside, around 25 acres of garden and parkland have been restored to Gilbert's design, with a kitchen garden, an herb garden, orchards, a wildlife pond and wildflower meadows. A zig-zag path climbs the hanger behind the house for views across the village. The site runs family events, trails and workshops through the school holidays, and there is a café in the grounds. It suits families who enjoy history, nature and a relaxed walk outdoors.