An historic National Trust property on the South Downs has reopened to visitors following a 19-month closure.

Uppark House and Garden is open to the public once again following a programme of repairs and upgrades.

Visitors can now enjoy the tranquil garden, refreshment kiosk and second-hand bookshop at the 17th century property near South Harting free of charge.

They can also explore its beautiful Georgian interiors and atmospheric servants’ quarters through a bookable guided tour that delves into the history of the house above and below stairs.”

“We’re thrilled to be welcoming visitors back to Uppark,” said Michaela Saunders-Hall, visitor operations manager.

“Our enthusiastic volunteers are ready to guide visitors through the house with stories of the Fetherstonehaugh family, H.G Wells and Lady Emma Hamilton.

“There’s also a new exhibition on the conservation and collections management that has taken place over the last nineteen months and is ongoing.”

A host of essential infrastructure repairs to secure the property’s future and make it more environmentally friendly have taken place since Uppark closed in January 2024. Electrical and heating systems have been updated while the house has been connected to the water mains for the first time following the decommission of its old on-site sewage treatment system.

There’s been a deep clean of the mansion’s carpets, upholstery and collection items while visitor facilities have been redecorated. The garden has also seen some changes with new pathways and planting schemes with a strong focus on colour and scent.

Scaffolding will be in place around the house until October as external work is ongoing.

The house is open Sunday to Wednesday while its famous dolls’ house remains on loan to the Huguenot Museum in Rochester and is due to return in 2027.

For more information on ticket prices and booking visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark