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Talk: Rembrandt and the science of art

Join Rebecca Hellen, National Conservator for Visual Arts, for a talk which will take you behind the scenes to look at what is means to understand paintings through science and conservation.

  • Booking essential

Rebecca worked extensively on the Rembrandt Self-portrait that is currently on display at Kingston Lacy and she will be able to bring this to life along with other paintings sharing some of her knowledge on what can be learnt from studying these paintings. The National Trust is also creating the UK and Europe’s largest collection of scientific paint samples of its paintings, interiors and more embarking on a journey into colour. Rebecca will explore how we are pioneering in this field and why.

The talk will start with time for you to enjoy the slow looking audio guide experience of Rembrandt’s Self-portrait in a Feathered Bonnet. This will be followed by Rebecca’s talk with time for questions.

The talk will be taking place in a fully accessible exhibition space. Personal wheelchairs and mobility scooters are welcome.

There will be no access to the house during this talk. If you would like to explore the house, gardens cafe or shop please visit between 9.30am – 5pm where normal admission charges will apply (National Trust members will need to show their membership cards at Visitor Reception and non-members will need to pay the admission price (from £23 per adult, £11.50 per child) or join the National Trust).

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

Ticket typeTicket category
All Per Person£15.00

The basics

Booking details

Call 0344 249 1895

Meeting point

Please meet at the side entrance to the house - the green door accessible from the laundry courtyard.

Accessibility

The talk will be taking place in a fully accessible exhibition space. Personal wheelchairs and mobility scooters are welcome.

Upcoming events

Snowdrops at Kingston Lacy 

Mark the beginnings of a new year by enjoying a walk amongst the snowdrops. Snowdrops flower at Kingston Lacy throughout January and February, though the best time to see them is normally in February. Normal property admission charges applies.

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on
8 Feb to 21 Feb 2026
at 09:30 to 16:00+ 13 other dates or times

Meet Rembrandt: a slow looking experience 

Slow down, get comfortable and come face-to-face with Rembrandt at Kingston Lacy.

Event summary

on
8 Feb to 22 Mar 2026
at 10:30 to 15:00+ 42 other dates or times

Early morning snowdrop walk 

Book your place on a guided snowdrop walk at Kingston Lacy, experience the tranquillity of the Fernery and Formal Gardens before we open.

Event summary

on
9 Feb 2026
at 08:45 to 09:45

Meet Rembrandt: a slow looking experience (pre-booked tickets) 

Slow down, get comfortable and come face-to-face with Rembrandt at Kingston Lacy.

Event summary

on
11 Feb to 22 Mar 2026
at 11:35 to 11:55+ 79 other dates or times