Heritage Open Days at Chartwell
Step inside the home of Sir Winston Churchill this Heritage Open Day and uncover the stories behind Chartwell’s remarkable past.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
Celebrate England’s largest festival of history and culture as Heritage Open Days returns in 2026 with the theme 'Everyday Histories'. At Chartwell, enjoy free access to both the house and garden, and discover the stories that shaped this much-loved home. Join special garden tours to hear how the Churchills brought creativity and character to their surroundings, alongside the often untold stories of the gardeners whose skill and dedication helped bring the family's vision to life.
Please see separate event listing to book your free ticket on the garden tours as spaces are limited. Please note, house tickets are given out on a first come first served basis, so entrance into the house cannot be guaranteed.
Times
The basics
- Accessibility
Hard paths in main garden. Steep incline in places. Accessible toilet available by the Visitor Centre and up at Garden Cottage toilets. Please ask in the Visitor Centre on arrival to find out whether the minibus is operating on the day of your visit, or a drive and drop to the front of the house can be arranged.
- Meeting point
Head to the Visitor Centre on arrival.
- Suitability for children
All ages welcome.
- What to bring and wear
Please dress for the weather.
Upcoming events
Chartwell 60 - Your Chartwell Memories
Share your favourite Chartwell memories this summer. From May to July, we’re gathering a record of the moments that makes this place special, and in September, we’ll bring them together in a special outdoor display for everyone to enjoy.
Chartwell 60: The 60th anniversary of Chartwell's opening to the public
In 2026, we’re celebrating 60 years since Chartwell opened to the public on 22 June 1966. Discover our past, celebrate the present and contribute your own memories to our special anniversary display for ‘Chartwell 60’.
Area Ranger Guided Walks
Join a fascinating guided walk around the Chartwell estate with our Area Ranger, Fraser Williamson.
Conservation in Action at Chartwell
See Chartwell a little differently and learn about the preventive conservation our Collections team undertake to ensure the preservation of Sir Winston Churchill's heritage.