The Richard Jefferies Museum is housed in the farmhouse at Coate, where Richard Jefferies was born in 1848. Situated within the lovely surroundings of Coate Water, the Museum features some of the memento's of Richard Jefferies (1848 -1887) , one of England's most individual writers on nature and the countryside.

Richard's early years were spent wandering around the farmlands, exploring the nearby streams that fed the canals and swimming in the reservoir - now called Coate Water - about five minutes' walk from the Museum. His early life is recorded in a series of novels, including 'Bevis - The Story of a Boy!'

His passion for nature - he was a keen naturalist - and recollection of a way of country life seen through the eyes of a growing boy and now sadly gone, are recalled in his almost ecstatic, dream-like prose.

The Museum includes first editions of many of Richard Jefferies writings, the manuscript of 'Wood Magic' and family photographs and memorabilia. Parts of the building have been restored to create the atmosphere of a mid to late 19th Century farmhouse with a cheese room.

Web: www.richardjefferiessociety.co.uk

Admission to the museum is Free.

Disabled/Special Needs Access

The museum is not accessible for wheelchair users.

Opening Times

Second Wednesday of the month from 10am to 4pm throughout the year. First, third and fourth Sundays of the month from 2-5pm from May to August inclusive. Also open on Sunday 6 & 13 September. At other times, open by appointment by contacting info@richardjefferiessociety.org.uk or telephone 01793 783040.

Please note that the Museum will be closed for repairs from 14 September 2009 to the end of the year. Apologies for any inconvenience.

How to find us

Richard Jefferies House and Museum
Marlborough Road
Coate
Swindon
SN3 6AA

Parking at Coate Water, next to the Sun Inn.

Check out a route finder for more information.

Writers' Group

Find out more about the Footsteps Writers Group, which meets at the Richard Jefferies Museum.