A wonderful Victorian farmhouse and beautiful gardens - birthplace of the world’s first nature writer, and bustling hub of arts, nature, history, and entertainment.
Richard Jefferies Museum, Marlborough Road, Coate, Swindon, SN3 6AA
You may not have heard of our Richard Jefferies, but he was once a household name, known for his insightful writing about the world he saw around him, giving us not only the phrase ‘nature writing’, but also the term ‘wild life’ in the sense that we all use it today. Monty Don OBE, says this:
“Reverence for the natural world and the need to acknowledge both its fragility and significance is growing. We are learning that we need that world in all its sublime complexity much more than it needs us. This was Jefferies’ subject and it has never been more pertinent to the way that we live.”
US-based music composer, Robinton Hobbs, visited the museum when he was in the UK to record music for a movie. He was born locally, and his grandfather kept in touch with him across the Atlantic by recording readings from one of Jefferies’ books, ‘Bevis, the story of a boy’, set around Coate Water. Robinton made this short video on his visit, with music he wrote especially, and we think it is rather lovely!
Where do I park?
The museum has a small car park reserved for volunteers and those with mobility issues. There is some free on-street parking along Day House Lane, and paid public parking is located at Coate Water. You can also get there by bike or bus (see www.richardjefferies.org) for details.
Who was Richard Jefferies?
He was a great writer and thinker who lived at Coate Farm (now the Museum) over 150 years ago. His passions were nature, wildlife and the environment. His ideas are even more important today than they were during his lifetime.
What is there to see and do?
There’s plenty for all ages. You can:
Explore the old house and gardens, find out about Jefferies and his family and see exhibitions of local art.
Have tea and cakes in the lovely garden, sitting under a mulberry tree planted by Jefferies father and listen to live music (Sundays only).
Join in activities such as Nature Tots (Tuesdays and Thursdays). See www.richardjefferies.org for more information.
How accessible is it?
Admission is free and the gardens are relatively wheelchair-friendly, although there are a number of natural obstacles. The ground floor of the museum is also accessible, but unfortunately there is no lift to the upper floors. We have an accessible toilet on the ground floor.
Can I get involved?
The Museum is a Charity run entirely by volunteers and there are always opportunities to help in the museum and/or gardens. Come along or get in touch to find out about our current projects.
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