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A Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Adventure at Mottisfont
Take off on a magical adventure this summer through imagination, illustration and invention! Discover Chitty Chitty Bang Bang with our extraordinary new exhibition, celebrating Ian Fleming's iconic tale like never before. Explore over 80 original illustration that bring the story to life, featuring artwork by John Burningham, Steve Antony and Thomas Gilbert.
Fly into a world of adventure
Step into the pages of one of Britian's most beloved Children's stories - Chitty Chitty Bang Bang - in a playful summer exhibition celebrating its 60-year legacy. From the very first illustrations by John Burningham to brand-new artworks by Steve Antony and Thomas Gilbert, discover how this magical car has captured imaginations across generations.
This imaginative exhibition and family trail takes you through colourful rooms bursting with artwork, interactive displays, and inventive fun - all set in the atmospheric house and gardens of Mottisfont.
Exhibition: A journey through illustration
Travel through three gallery rooms as you follow Chitty's high-flying story...
House exhibition opens from 11am - 4pm (last entry 3.30pm).
The Original Adventure
Discover John Burningham's bold and expressive illustrations for the very first edition of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, published in 1964. A rising star in children's illlustrations at the time, Burningham brought Ian Fleming's thrilling tale to life - full of quirky inventions, daring escapes and classic storytelling. This exhibition explores how Fleming's tale has sparked imaginations for over 60 years.
New Imaginations
In later year the story was illustatrated by two new comtempary illustators who have reimagined Chitty for today's readers:
Steve Anthony, known for his illustrations for Mr Panda and The Queen's Hat books, brings colour, energy and playful detail into the version of Chitty adapted by Peter Bently for a younger audience.
Thomas Gilbert, offers rich, cinematic artwork, full of drama and depth in a new version of the orignal book.
Both artists' work is displayed in a room inspired by the scenes from the illustrated books with floating clouds and a soaring hot air balloon, and even a mysterious cave with hidden 'peepo' to discover.
Don't miss the Chitty selfie spot, featuring a custom-built Chitty front end - perfect for striking your best inventor or explore pose!
Along side the exhibition there is also a family trail. One there are some fun things to look out for and spot in the art gallery.
Summer trail
In the gardens there is a six point family trail inspired by the story of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and the Potts family who own her. As you explore the gardens look out for the invention station where you can design your own magical car and the gangsters lair and a exploration area.
Exploration time: Head to the wild play area and channel your inner inventor — just like the Potts family, who are always up for an adventure! Use small wooden blocks to create imaginative structures, or design a large obstacle course with planks and stepping logs.
Invention station: Commander Pott was a brilliant inventor who transformed an old race car into the incredible Chitty Chitty Bang Bang — a car that could fly, float like a boat, and was packed with gadgets. At the Invention Station in the loose boxes design your own wonderfully wacky car. Let your imagination run wild!
Beach Adventures: Join Chitty and the Potts family on a visit to a magical island! Explore a mysterious shipwreck, play beach games, or relax in a cosy deckchair and let the sea breeze drift by.
The Gangster's lair: Hidden in the cellarium is the Gangster's lair where 'Joe the Monster' has hidden some stolen loot and weapons. Here you have to carefully uncover evidence of their crimes hidden around the cave.
Catch the Gangsters: Hidden in the cellarium is the Gangsters’ Lair, where ‘Joe the Monster’ has stashed stolen loot and weapons. Carefully uncover clues and evidence of their crimes hidden around the cave.
Monsieur Bon Bon's sweet shop: Commander Pott created the amazing Crackpot’s Whistling Sweets. On the South Paddock, you can design a treat with a twist! Use sweet-inspired musical instruments to create your own musical sweet. You’ll also find the recipe for Monsieur Bon Bon’s secret creation.
Ian Fleming and Mottisfont
The story of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is uniquely linked to Mottisfont though a remarakble freindship. Author Ian Fleming was a close companion of Maud Russell, the house's former owner. He was a regular guest at Mottisfont in the 1930s -40s, where lively weekends were filled with debate, croquet, and even mushroom-picking. Maud introduced Fleming to key figures who shaped his early career, and later helped him purchase Goldeneye, his Jamaican home where he wrote Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and the James Bond novels.
Discover more about thier story inside the house.
Plan your visit
- House and exhibition open 11am - 4pm (last entry at 3.30pm)
- Family trail included with normal admission
- Outdoor activities availiable throughout the day
- Cafe and shop open for refreshments and Chitty-themed goodies.
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