Over 250 years ago, Selborne and its surrounding landscape inspired Gilbert White to write about his lifelong investigation of the natural world, producing his world-famous book, The Natural History and Antiquities of Selborne, published in 1789. His book was important in shaping our everyday view of the relations between humans and nature. He was always a keen gardener who became closely interested in the natural world around him, and grew a wide range of traditional and experimental fruit and vegetables. He was the first person in this area to grow potatoes and began recording methodically what he sowed and reaped, the weather, temperature and other details. This he went on to call his âGarden Kalendarâ.
The house that Gilbert Whiteâs family moved into when he was about 7 or 8 years old, would have been a two up, two down, but over subsequent years, lots of extensions and additions were made, creating the house you see today. Descriptions in Whiteâs own correspondence were used to recreate the rooms as they used to be and they include a chair he used at Oriel College, Oxford (loaned from the college), items of contemporary furniture, family portraits and bed hangings embroidered for him by his aunts. You can listen to a conversation Gilbert had with his sister-in-law in the old kitchen where you can learn more about his household and life in Selborne during Gilbertâs time.
Selborne also has a pottery, a pub and village shop and there is so much to discover in this popular part of Hampshire. The town of Alton is nearby, where there are plenty of restaurants and shops, as well as a mainline railway station, The Watercress Steam Railway and also Jane Austenâs House at nearby Chawton. Other places of interest to visit include Portsmouth with the Spinnaker Tower, HMS Warrior and HMS Victory, as well as waterside dining, designer shopping and ferry trips to the Isle of Wight. Also within easy driving distance are Winchester Cathedral, King Arthurâs Round Table, Southampton with its maritime history, The New Forest, historic Chichester with cathedral, festival theatre, Goodwood Racecourse, beaches at The Witterings or Hayling Island, Marwell Zoo, Paultons Park with Peppa Pig World and Birdworld. Golf, fishing, cycling, walking and horse riding are all to be found in the area. Beach 35 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 100 yards.
Free WiFi
Ornamental fire surround. This property is not suitable for the less mobile. Bedding for the cot is not included.
It was furnished and equipped to a high standard. During the day
you share the gardens with the visitors to the museum but in the evenings you have it all to yourself.
Charming property in a beautiful village. Beautiful gardens and museum. Convinient caffee offering fresh delicious food. Great family stay with lots to do. Stairs a little challenging for young and old. Very comfortable beds!