Homes of two of Dorset's most famous figures, Thomas Hardy and TE Lawrence
The homes of two of Dorset’s most famous figures will reopen to the public this March. Hardy’s Cottage, the childhood home of novelist and poet Thomas Hardy, and his self-designed Victorian home, Max Gate, are welcoming visitors again. Clouds Hill, the small cottage once owned by T.E. Lawrence, known as Lawrence of Arabia, will also reopen following the winter break.
Spring is a great time to visit the homes of Dorset’s most famous figures!
Rachael White, Property Operations and Experiences Manager, said: “We’re excited to be opening Hardy’s homes and Clouds Hill again. After a deep clean this winter, the houses are looking their best, and the gardens are starting to come alive with spring flowers. It’s a lovely time of year to explore these special places and discover more about the lives of Thomas Hardy and Lawrence of Arabia.”
Restoration work at Hardy's Cottage
During the winter months Hardy’s Cottage benefitted from restoration work, including the careful rebuilding of the porch using salvaged materials. The roof was restored with
corrugated iron to match its original design, while a new cast iron gutter collects rainwater, supporting eco-friendly gardening by reducing water consumption.
Introductory talks
Visitors will be welcomed at all three houses with introductory talks from knowledgeable volunteers and invited to explore the rooms and gardens for insight into the lives of the two historical figures.
Thomas Hardy Houses
Max Gate is the Victorian home designed by Thomas Hardy, located at Alington Avenue in Dorchester. Find out more about visiting Max Gate on the National Trust website.
Hardy’s Cottage is the birthplace of Thomas Hardy located at Cuckoo Lane, Dorchester. Find out more on the National Trust website.
Both are around a half hours drive from Wareham.
Visit TE Lawrence's Home
Cloud’s Hill was the home of TE Lawrence. You can find it at King George V Road, Bovington. Find out more about visiting the house on the National Trust website.
You can also read Visit Purbeck’s guide to Cloud’s Hill.
TE Lawrence was also very closely associated to Wareham. Read more about TE Lawrence’s life in Dorset and his links to the area on our sister website – Visit Wareham.
Cloud’s Hill is around a 10 minute drive from Wareham
Pre-booking is essential for Hardy’s Cottage and Clouds Hill. For Max Gate booking is strongly advised but not compulsory.
