Nestled beneath the Selborne Hanger, Gilbert White’s House & Gardens is a gateway to the South Downs National Park. With extensive 18th century gardens and a wildflower meadow, you can immerse yourself in the wildlife and landscapes that inspired Gilbert White’s book ‘The Natural History of Selborne’ which has never been out of print since 1789. The book is a series of letters and observations between White and his fellow naturalists, Thomas Pennant and Daines Barrington, exploring wildlife in their local areas and how the species responded to changing seasons (phenological observations). This seminal work continues to inspire scientists today, with White’s recordings being important for those investigating how species’ biological cycles are changing in response to climate change. The beautifully restored 17th century home displays the original manuscript of ‘The Natural History of Selborne’, alongside an interactive digital edition for visitors to explore. Throughout the museum visitors can also explore the different species that White discovered, including the harvest mouse, chiff chaff and noctule bat, and how White inspired the likes of Thomas Bell and Charles Darwin. The museum also hosts collections belonging to Lawrence Oates, who was part of Captain Scott’s fateful Terra Nova expedition to the South Pole. Visitors can learn about the science that Scott’s team conducted in Antarctica that is being used as a baseline today. The Oates collection also includes artifacts and species collected by Frank Oates (Lawrence’s uncle), who was a naturalist, and identified several Southern African species whilst travelling. There is also an onsite café for brunch, lunch and afternoon tea. The delicious dishes include food harvested from the garden. Local produce can also be purchased from the café which acts as a village shop. The original 1765 brewhouse has been reopened and craft beer is brewed onsite and sold in the café. There are also beehives and our beekeepers producing honey for sale. Dogs are allowed throughout the gardens and in the café.
