Max Gate
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![The front exterior of Max Gate]()
The house is screened by specially planted trees -
![The Dining Room at Max Gate]()
The dining room at Max Gate -
![A close up view of the desk in the poetry study at Max Gate]()
See the desk where Hardy penned his novels and poetry
Atmospheric Victorian home designed by Thomas Hardy
Croquet on the lawn
Hardy loved playing croquet on the front lawn at Max Gate and invited his guests to do the same. In August 1900, for example, he enjoyed a friendly round with the poet A E Houseman. Present day visitors to Max Gate are encouraged to have a go themselves. Despite its gentile image, croquet can be a highly competitive game. However, we trust that at Max Gate the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere will prevail. The croquet is set out on the lawn during open hours, except when the weather is very bad.
