West Dean House, the former home of Edward James, supporter of the Surrealists and founder of West Dean College, is throwing open its doors to visitors on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May 2015. The Grade II* Listed house is open to the public only once a year. New for this year, the Clerk of Works, Robin Sheehan, will talk about the rich history of the building exterior. Visitors can follow the house route map which will take them into the magnificent State Rooms to see some of the famous Surrealist art works and objects collected by Edward James throughout his lifetime.
"The house is only open once a year so it is a rather special weekend where people can experience the unique atmosphere at West Dean," says Sam Moore, Public Events Manager.
A series of talks over the weekend include; Clocks, the Beating Heart of Houses by Matthew Read, Clocks Conservator and West Dean College tutor and a talk by artist Rose Robson, whose unconventional approach to taxidermy has gained significant notice since graduating in Fine Art from Central Saint Martins. There will also be displays of Rose's work, and work by West Dean Visual Arts students.
Entrance to the House includes access to the gardens which feature the award-winning Sunken Garden, the Edwardian Pergola, Kitchen and Walled Gardens, Arboretum and Spring, Wild and Woodland Garden. The West Dean Vintage Tea Tent will be offering light refreshments. Annual House Opening: Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May, Opening Times: 10am to 5pm (last ticket 4pm).
Early Bird prices
£8.25 Adult (gate price of £9 Adult). Children go FREE.
Book online at: West Dean College
Please note: West Dean House has limited access for peopple with mobility requirements.
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Notes to editors
For media accreditation or high-resolution digital images, please contact:
Irene Caswell, Senior Media Relations Officer +44 (0)1243 818301
West Dean College and Gardens, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 OQZ www.westdean.org.uk