Uppark House & Garden
An 18th-century Palladian mansion with elegant rooms, art, and a famous Dollshouse, set in peaceful West Sussex gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Uppark House & Garden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 18th-century Palladian mansion with elegant rooms, art, and a famous Dollshouse, set in peaceful West Sussex gardens.
"A peaceful day out with an interesting house tour and lovely gardens, though amenities can be limited."
🎯 Book House Tours Ahead
Essential for understanding the history. Pre-booking is recommended, especially on busy days.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
For exploring both the house and the gardens comfortably.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand House Interior
Uppark House
Explore elegant 18th-century rooms, art, and furniture, with fascinating insights into upstairs-downstairs life.
The Palladian Dollshouse
Uppark House
Marvel at a miniature masterpiece with over 400 artifacts, a testament to historical craftsmanship.
Peaceful Garden Strolls
Uppark Gardens
Enjoy serene walks through manicured gardens, perfect for a gentle exploration and enjoying the views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
House Tours & Access
Garden Exploration & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book House Tours Ahead
Essential for understanding the history. Pre-booking is recommended, especially on busy days.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
For exploring both the house and the gardens comfortably.
📱 Check Cafe Status
The main cafe may be closed; a kiosk van usually offers drinks and snacks.
🗺️ Look for Clear Signage
Especially if the visitor center is closed, as directions can be unclear.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book House Tours Ahead
Essential for understanding the history. Pre-booking is recommended, especially on busy days.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
For exploring both the house and the gardens comfortably.
📱 Check Cafe Status
The main cafe may be closed; a kiosk van usually offers drinks and snacks.
🗺️ Look for Clear Signage
Especially if the visitor center is closed, as directions can be unclear.
📸 Be Mindful of Tours
Some visitors report being rushed and restricted from taking photos during tours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the interesting house tours and the peaceful gardens, highlighting the unique Dollshouse as a major draw. However, some find the house tours rushed, the cafe facilities limited, and signage unclear when the visitor center is closed.
"First visit here today. Lovely weather. We found it to be very peaceful as it wasn't busy. The gardens are lovely to walk around and not extensive so you can explore all the garden and do the 0.6 mile walk in an hour. This was perfect for my elderly dog. The tour of the house was really interesting. Our guide was excellent. The cafe is currently closed but there is a cafe van outside the front of the house that does drinks, sandwiches, ice cream and cakes.
A wonderful, peaceful day out. As always, the NT staff are very nice."
Jo K
"I have been waiting to visit here for agessssssssss. Now it's open I have finally had a chance. The house is lovely, but it doesn't have much in the way of grounds to wander. Beautiful setting, but not the place if you want a long ramble walk. Will be great once cafe is open !"
cheryl Threadingham
"Although the weather wasn't the best, the whole day could have been so much better if the following was implemented: Clearer signage to the house as the Visitors Centre was temporarily closed when we arrived and it was not obvious on where to go. We had booked a tour of the house and our guide was very well informed but we would have loved to have heard much more anecdotes of the "upstairs" family and the "downstairs" staff to bring the personal side of this great house alive. The lack of a proper cafe was disappointing as only a kiosk trailer available with limited refreshments and seating which is unusual for the National Trust. Perhaps with a few changes, Up Park would be worthy of a second visit."
Pam Gomer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Uppark House & Garden is located in West Sussex. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. For public transport, you can take a train to Petersfield or Chichester and then a taxi or local bus service.
Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at Uppark House & Garden.
Cycling routes are available in the surrounding countryside, and you can bring your bike to explore the area. Secure bike parking may be available.
The nearest train stations are Petersfield and Chichester. From there, you'll need to arrange onward travel.
While accessible by train and then bus/taxi, public transport options can be limited, so checking local bus schedules in advance is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is recommended to book house tours in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your spot.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date information on opening times for both the house and gardens.
Admission fees apply for non-members. National Trust members get free entry. Check the website for current ticket prices.
Discounts may be available for groups, families, or specific events. National Trust membership offers free entry to all their properties.
Yes, you can often visit the gardens even if you don't tour the house. Check admission details for garden-only access.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the elegant 18th-century rooms of the house, admire the art and furniture, discover the servants' quarters, and wander through the beautiful gardens. Don't miss the unique Palladian Dollshouse. 
Yes, guided tours of the house are highly recommended and offer in-depth historical insights. However, some visitors have found tours to be rushed.
Accessibility can be limited in historic houses. Some areas of the house may have stairs, and the gardens might have uneven terrain. It's advisable to contact Uppark House directly for specific accessibility information.
Photography rules can vary. Some visitors have reported restrictions on photography during tours, so it's best to check on-site guidelines.
The Uppark Dollshouse is a famous miniature replica of a Georgian house, featuring over 400 artifacts. It's a significant historical exhibit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main cafe at Uppark House is often closed, with a kiosk van typically providing refreshments like drinks, sandwiches, and cakes. +1
Picnic areas may be available in the gardens. It's best to check the National Trust guidelines for their policy on bringing your own food.
The kiosk van usually offers a selection of drinks, sandwiches, ice cream, and cakes.
There are likely local pubs and restaurants in the nearby villages of South Harting and Petersfield.
Yes, the kiosk van typically serves coffee and other hot beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the house, the gardens, and specific architectural details offer great photo opportunities. The Dollshouse is also a unique subject.
Photography rules can be strict inside historic houses. Some visitors have reported being asked not to take photos during tours. Always check on-site signage or ask staff.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check their specific drone policy.
Architectural photography, garden landscapes, and historical interior details are popular. The Dollshouse is a unique subject for close-up shots.
While the grounds offer scenic backdrops, check with Uppark House directly regarding permissions and any associated fees for professional or personal photo shoots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the house itself might be more suited for older children who can appreciate the history, the gardens provide space for a gentle walk and exploration. Practical tips for families include checking the cafe situation beforehand, as limited refreshments might be available.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
For those interested in history, the house tours provide in-depth narratives about the lives of its former inhabitants, from the aristocracy to the servants.
+1 While some reviews mention tours can feel rushed, seeking out guides known for their storytelling can enhance the experience. 🏛️ History Buffs
The Dollshouse is a particularly significant artifact, providing a detailed miniature representation of the era's domestic life. Pay close attention to the upstairs-downstairs narrative, as it offers a comprehensive view of the social hierarchy and daily routines of the time.
Engaging with the guides, when possible, can unlock deeper anecdotes and historical context, though be mindful of potential time constraints on tours. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Uppark House
The upstairs-downstairs dynamic is a key theme at Uppark. Visitors can explore the opulent rooms of the family and guests, gaining insight into their lives, while also descending to the more functional, yet equally fascinating, servants' quarters. This contrast highlights the social structures and daily routines of the Georgian era.
One of Uppark's most unique treasures is its Palladian Dollshouse, dating from around 1730. This incredibly detailed miniature house contains over 400 artifacts, offering a fascinating glimpse into domestic life on a smaller scale. It's a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of the period.
Exploring the Uppark Gardens
During certain seasons, the gardens can be particularly vibrant. For instance, the mention of ducks laying eggs suggests a thriving natural environment, hinting at the possibility of seeing wildlife.
It's worth noting that the gardens are best enjoyed in good weather, making them a prime attraction during the spring and summer months.
The Uppark Dollshouse: A Miniature Marvel
This dollshouse is not just a toy; it's a valuable historical document. Its intricate details, from furniture to decorative objects, provide insights into the tastes and lifestyles of the period. The fact that some elements, like candles, could historically be lit adds to its fascinating realism.
For those interested in miniatures or historical interiors, the Uppark Dollshouse is a must-see. It has even been featured in exhibitions outside of Uppark House itself, such as at the Huguenot Museum, highlighting its importance and appeal to a wider audience.
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