Gilbert White's House & Garden
and The Oates Museum

	Gilbert White's House The Rev. Gilbert White (1720-1793) was author of the world famous 'Natural History of Selborne' and is regarded as England's first ecologist. He lived in The Wakes most of his life. The rooms have been furnished in the 18th century style and include items of his furniture, beautifully embroidered bed hangings and portraits of his family. The original manuscript is also on display.
	The Garden The garden is well documented by White and restoration to its 18th century form is nearly complete. Already established are his 'Quincunx', Six Quarters displaying many of the fascinating cultivated plants known to White and Naturalists garden with pond and native species. His brick path leads to the stone ha ha, sundial and part of his fruit wall and in the park a revolving 'Wine Pipe' surveys the parkland and magnificent beech-clad hanger. Old varieties of vegetables and hot beds for melons and cucumbers add further interest. There is always a good selection of unusual plants for sale.
	The Oates Museum Two interesting exhibitions commemorate the Oates family and their exploits. Captain Lawrence Oates accompanied Scott to the South Pole and uttered the famous words "I am just going outside. I may be some time" as he left his tent to walk to his death: relics of their ill fated expedition are on display. His uncle, Frank Oates, was a remarkable Victorian explorer and his journeys to South America and South Africa are graphically illustrated.
	Free Admission to Tea Parlour Delicious refreshments, including light lunches, are served in the restored dining room. Most of the fare is based upon interesting and unusual eighteenth century fare and is prepared on the premises, incorporating produce and herbs from the garden..
	Free Admission to the Shop With the emphasis on unusual and inexpensive gifts and books, mostly English in origin, this is an excellent shop to browse in to find something a little different.
	Field Studies Centre Courses for students from schools and colleges on natural history and the environment are led by highly trained staff. For further information please call 01420 511303.
	Conference Room An elegant location for meetings and seminars amidst Hampshire's glorious countryside. Refreshments available.
	Opening Times 11am-5pm Tuesday to Sunday from 1st January - 24th December
	Admission Charges 2006: Adults: £6.00 OAPs & Students: £5.00 Children: Free Access to ground floor and garden, shop and Tea Parlour for disabled visitors.
	Group Bookings Groups welcome by prior appointment at any time including summer evenings. Group Charges for 2006: All: £4.50 A short introductory talk and a guided tour of the house and garden are available for groups, by prior appointment. Access to ground floor, shop, Tea Parlour and garden for disabled visitors. Further Information: Tel: (01420) 511275 Fax: (01420) 511040

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Contact for more information on Gilbert White's House: The Duty Manager, Gilbert White's House, The Wakes, Selborne, Alton, Hampshire GU34 3JH. Tel: (01420) 511275 (UK) or E-mail info@gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk. or visit www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk

Last updated on 07 November 2006.
© Copyright Selborne Parish Council 1997