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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 note that last entry to the garden is 4.30pm. House access is via timed-entry tickets issued by the Visitor Centre on a first-come, first served basis. The house is open from 11am and last entry is at 4pm.

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.

Contact info

Central Box Office

Upcoming events

Rob Biddulph family activity trail 

Explore the garden with activities inspired by Rob Biddulph’s latest book, ‘When I grow up I’d like to be...'

Event summary

on
6 Aug to 6 Sep 2026
at 10:00 to 16:30+ 31 other dates or times

‘Churchill: Image and Power’ exhibition at Chartwell in the Uniform Room 

Explore the restored Uniform Room and see Churchill's recently conserved clothing items in a special display.

Event summary

on
6 Aug to 1 Nov 2026
at 11:00 to 15:40+ 87 other dates or times

Inspired by Chartwell Painting Exhibition 

See the winning paintings from the ‘Inspired by Chartwell’ Painting Competition

Event summary

on
6 Aug to 31 Dec 2026
at 11:30 to 16:00+ 145 other dates or times

Chartwell Highlights Tour: Life at Chartwell 

Join one of our expert volunteer guides on an intimate tour of select rooms in the house at Chartwell, focusing on Sir Winston Churchill, his family, and the friends and guests who shaped their lives here.

Event summary

on
6 Aug to 4 Sep 2026
at 16:00 to 17:00+ 20 other dates or times