Group & school visits
We trust your visit to Talbot House will be a unique experience. You are welcome to visit the grounds under your own steam or join one of our storytellers. Here is an overview of what you can expect. Do take a look around on our 360° tour.
To help prepare yourself, we offer all group leaders a free prospection visit during which we are happy to answer any questions so to tailor your visit and battlefield tour.
.jpg)
.jpg)
Exhibition: A House of People
In this permanent exposition over 500 historic objects, most of them shown to the public for the first time in decades, narrate the history of Talbot House over the past century. Through several themes such as camp life, medical care or the vibrant life in 'Little Paris' you first get a glimpse of the world Talbot House was created in. Next are the modules about the century long history of Talbot House. Starting with its foundation but also including the story of the story of the pilgrimages, the purchase of the Pool of Peace and the Old House and German occupation during WW2. We finish our story with Harry Patch, the last veteran and Talbotousians of the Great War. With the help of interactive tablets, visitors can find out more information on an artefact or story of their choice.
.jpg)
The Garden
The large walled garden of Talbot House was a sanctuary for many soldiers. Recent renovations have given the garden its wartime appearance again. With lots of cosy corners and benches, it makes the ideal picnic spot. Bring your own or enjoy one of our delicious picnic lunches. Try to spot the unique Talbot House Roses and perhaps pick one up on your out for your own garden.
The Slessorium
Throughout the year, several temporary exhibitions are organised at the former bath house. Your general ticket gives you admission to all of these as well.
.jpg)
Talbot House
And now on to the highlight of your visit, the Old House. Here you'll breath the atmosphere of the wartime years. We recommend you join one of our storytellers on a tour through the House. The old sayings, notices, artefacts and paintings will tell you about the history. Have sing song on the old piano, enjoy a cup of tea with our wardens or play some board games. Your discovery tour will lead you to the Upper Room in the attic where you'll walk on some of the most sacred ground in Flanders Fields. In the chapel, where thousands would have had their first and many their last communion, you can reflect on your visit. Please get in touch if you would like us to assist in organising a service for you. Please note that our house rules only allow 25 people per guide on a tour of the House.
The Concert Hall & Oast House
In our very own Concert Hall, we are delighted to invite you for the Happy Hoppers Concert Party. This show takes you back to 1917 and would have been a highlight for the thousands of soldiers that came to see it in this very room.
In the Oast House, you enter Tubby's post-war dining room where a documentary on his later life and work is shown to conclude your visit. A true highlight and not to be missed!
