Mompesson House was constructed for Sir Thomas Mompesson, MP for the constituency of Salisbury in 1679, 1695 and 1701. The site was purchased at the end of the 17th century and the house reflects the classic Queen Anne style of that period with Chilmark stone facing. To the right of the main house stands the brick built service building which was constructed on the site of the old Eagle Inn that closed in 1625. Thomas's son Charles completed the building in 1701, his initials and date can be seen on the heads of the water downpipes. In due course the Longueville family acquired the house through marriage. The Townsend family occupied the house from 1846 to 1939 and the flamboyant artist Miss Barbara Townsend, mentioned in Edith Olivier's book, Four Victorian Ladies of Wiltshire, lived there for the whole of her 96 years. The Bishop of Salisbury, Neville Lovett, lived there from 1942-46. It is noted for its elegant and spacious interior, especially the magnificent plasterwork and fine oak staircase; as well as the important Turnbull collection of 18th century drinking glasses, fine period furniture and charming walled garden with its garden tearoom.
Mompesson House featured as Mrs Jennings’ London home in the award-winning film ‘Sense and Sensibility’. They currently have an exhibition entitled ‘Sense and Sensibility Revisited: Did Jane Austen know the Portman Sisters of Mompesson House?' There is reasonable mobile phone reception across the property. Assistance dogs are welcome. There is a water bowl next to the railings in front of the Entrance Door which is refilled regularly or can be filled on request. Fixed Induction loop available on ground floor at Visitor Reception Desk which is regularly.checked. Upstairs rooms only accessible via a staircase. There is a manual wheelchair available to use. There are also two walking sticks and a folding stool available to borrow during a visit. There is a pretty walled garden to the rear, with an uneven path, and an accessible toilet. Both Large Print and Braille guides are available.
Location : The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2EL
Transport: Salisbury (National Rail) 8 minutes. Bus Routes : 25, 26, 27, 663, PR3, R3, R8 and X5 stop nearby
Opening Times : Saturday to Wednesday 11:00 to 17:00
Tickets : Adults £6.30; Children £3.00.
Tel: 01722 335659
