Individual visitors

What to expect

Through an elaborate, iron-grilled doorway I could hear the sound of laughter and music, and pushing through the door I found myself at once in a different World. It was amazing, I felt like Alice when she stepped through the looking-glass. There were soldiers all around me, of course, and Army slang in the air, but, in stepping across that threshold, I seemed to have left behind me all the depression and weariness of the street. There were walls with paper on them – clean paper, too! – carpeted stairs, pictures on the walls and vases with flowers in them.      (N.N., 58th Division, September 1917) 

The Permanent Exhibition: A House of People

The permanent exposition walks you through the history of Talbot House over the past century. Several themes like medical care, pastimes in the soldiers’ camps and the vibrant life in 'Little Paris' are told through over 500 artefacts. Besides the Tales of Talbot House during the war years, we also aim in bringing the story of the pilgrimages during the interbellum, the purchase of the Pool of Peace and Talbot House, the Second World War and German occupation of the House. We finish our story with Harry Patch, the last veteran and Talbotousians of the Great War.

The Garden

The garden of Talbot House is one of the most attractive places on the domain. A lot of visitors like to spend some time here. "The largest room of the house", as Tubby called it, served as a resting place where soldiers could meet and get away from the mud, dirt, blood and tears that the war had caused. Perhaps you'll stay for a picnic too?

The Slessorium

The former post war bath house today houses a wide variety of temporarily exhibitions all year round. To see what's on at the moment, please consult our overview. 

Talbot House

And now, the highlight of your visit. The original soldier's club is left almost as it was a century ago. It is not run as a museum but as a club and guesthouse where people come and go and even stay the night. You'll be greeted by our resident wardens who are always up for a chat. By using Tubby's Tablets, you'll receive a first rate tailored tour. Don't miss out on the chapel in the Upper Room. And don't forget, the kettle is always on.

The Concert Hall

Come upstairs and enjoy a real live concert party from the previous century. The "Happy Hoppers" have put on quite a show. 

Tubby's post-War room

As a closing chapter to your visit, you can now have a look in Tubby's post-War room. This room has been reconstructed using the authentic furniture and decoration and is the ideal place to watch our documentary about Tubby's life.