The historic Wakehurst Mansion, nestled in the heart of the Sussex landscape, will reopen its doors to the public on June 27 2025 following a major two-year roof restoration. The Grade I listed Elizabethan property now welcomes visitors into a beautifully revitalised space, complete with two brand-new exhibitions and a serene retreat for reflection and rest.
This reopening signals an exciting new chapter in the story of Wakehurst. More than a restoration, the project reimagines the Mansion as a place where heritage, science, and visitor experience come together—inviting people to engage with the site’s rich history and its pioneering role in environmental science.
The timing is especially poignant, coinciding with two major anniversaries: the 25th anniversary of the Millennium Seed Bank and 60 years since Wakehurst was placed under the care of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Since taking over the site in 1965, Kew has developed Wakehurst into a dynamic ecological counterpart to its London gardens, with a strong focus on botanical research and biodiversity conservation.
As part of the reopening, visitors will have access to three newly restored areas of the Mansion. In the Billiard Room, an exhibition traces Wakehurst’s story from prehistoric times to the present day. The display offers a deep dive into the transformation of the landscape and the Mansion’s role at the forefront of botanical science. It also explores the partnership between RBG Kew and the National Trust, whose collaborative stewardship has helped shape the estate over the decades.
The Chapel, the original birthplace of the Millennium Seed Bank, celebrates 25 years of pioneering seed conservation. The exhibition highlights how Wakehurst continues to lead the way in plant science, featuring contemporary research and initiatives such as the Nature Unlocked programme, which positions the estate as a living laboratory for exploring nature-based climate solutions.
Meanwhile, the Library has been carefully revived as a quiet, contemplative space, where visitors can pause and soak in the Mansion’s atmosphere—an invitation to connect with the heritage and beauty of Wakehurst in a more personal way.
These spaces reflect Wakehurst’s identity as both a site of historic significance and a hub of scientific innovation. Through immersive storytelling and thoughtful design, the Mansion becomes once again a focal point for education, engagement, and inspiration.
Wakehurst Director Susan Raikes said: “The reopening of Wakehurst Mansion marks a significant milestone in the evolution of this remarkable site. The new exhibition spaces reflect our commitment to deepening public engagement with the natural world through the lens of science, heritage, and innovation. This achievement is the result of a collaborative effort, and we are proud to welcome visitors into a revitalised Mansion that honours its past while embracing an exciting future.”
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The National Trust, which remains a key partner in the stewardship of the estate, played an active role in the restoration. Caroline Ikin, Curator at the National Trust, said: “The National Trust and Kew have worked together at Wakehurst for many years, and we’re delighted the mansion is re-opening following extensive conservation work to the exterior of the building. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter at Wakehurst, with new displays exploring the rich history of the mansion and the people who’ve lived and worked there. Collaborating with Kew on the re-opening of these historic spaces has enabled us to share our joint vision of increasing access to our places.”
As Wakehurst Mansion opens its doors once more, visitors are invited to step into a place where past, present and future meet—where history and science work hand-in-hand to inspire a deeper connection with the natural world.
Website: Kew
