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The Art of Illusion: The Theatrical World of Oliver Messel

Sat 14 Jun – Sun 26 Oct: 11am–3.30pm. An exhibition exploring the creativity of Oliver Messel, theatre designer for stage and screen, and master of illusion and make-believe. Normal admission applies.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

From interior design to theatre props and film work, Oliver Messel’s life in design was influenced by a childhood spent at Nymans. He became Britain’s leading stage designer of the mid twentieth century with his lavish designs.

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This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

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Upcoming events

Event

Daily guided tours of the garden 

Join a daily guided garden tour led by expert garden guides.

Event summary

on
20 Jun to 31 Oct 2025
at
10:00 to 17:00
+ 133 other dates or times
Event

Moomins 

3 May to 13 July 2025: 10am - 5pm. Nymans invites you to take a magical wander inspired by Moominvalley this spring, with a family trail around the garden, meeting characters from the Moomin stories.

Event summary

on
20 Jun to 13 Jul 2025
at
10:00 to 17:00
+ 23 other dates or times
Event

Sneak Peek Tours 

Take a behind the scenes look inside the house on a sneak peek tour. Tours last approximately 30 minutes and are included in general admission. Please go to Visitor Welcome to collect a ticket. (Limited availability).

Event summary

on
20 Jun to 24 Oct 2025
at
10:30 to 11:00
+ 90 other dates or times
Event

Dream House Tours 

Join a tour around the outside of the house at Nymans, looking at the building and seeing how it developed since 1890 when it was purchased by Ludwig Messel.

Event summary

on
20 Jun to 24 Oct 2025
at
14:00 to 14:45
+ 90 other dates or times