Home   What's On   News   Article

Sissinghurst Castle opens the South Cottage, home of Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson for the first time

The intimate retreat of Harold Nicolson and Vita Sackville-West at Sissinghurst Castle is to open to the public for the first time this winter.

The pink-bricked South Cottage was the little-known private space of the couple and features previously unseen objects and spaces to explore.

The pair used the cottage for more than 30 years, and Harold’s book room is where he carried out much of his writing. Visitors will be able to picture him in there designing the Lime Walk outside, and the tapping of typewriter keys as the couple crafted their next book.

A glimpse of the sitting room in the South Cottage at Sissinghurst castle Picture: National trust/James Dobson
A glimpse of the sitting room in the South Cottage at Sissinghurst castle Picture: National trust/James Dobson

Much of the original décor remains, with rich velvets framing the oak framed windows in the sitting room and stark, exposed brick in Vita’s bedroom.

The opening of the South Cottage comes as the UK prepares to mark 50 years since the decriminalisation of homosexuality in England. The couple famously had an open and loving marriage, as well as same-sex relationships.

General manager Hester Liakos said: “We’re so pleased to be able to open the South Cottage to visitors every day this winter. This evocative space was, quite simply, home to Harold and Vita. It remains full of memories, books and a true sense of the people at the heart of Sissinghurst’s history.

The newly-opened South Cottage at Sissinghurst Picture: National Trust/James Dobson
The newly-opened South Cottage at Sissinghurst Picture: National Trust/James Dobson

“We are famous for our garden here, and the team is working hard to revitalise a true sense of Vita and Harold’s spirit and influence in the garden. To support this work, the garden closes for rest, conservation and development work over the colder months, but the opening of the South Cottage offers visitors a new story to explore at Sissinghurst this winter.”

Sissinghurst has been under the care of the National Trust since 1967, and features a 16th century mansion and the world renowned garden.

There are plenty of objects and artefacts in the newly-opened South Cottage at Sissinghurst Picture: National Trust/James Dobson
There are plenty of objects and artefacts in the newly-opened South Cottage at Sissinghurst Picture: National Trust/James Dobson

The South Cottage is open every day through the winter except Christmas Eve and Christmas day, between 11.15am and 3.30pm.

Access is by timed ticket, available from visitor reception on arrival. Please note the South Cottage will have a daily limited capacity. Access is via narrow paths which may be slippery, please wear appropriate footwear. Unfortunately the cottage is not accessible for disabled visitors.

A wintry scene at Sissinghurst Picture: National Trust
A wintry scene at Sissinghurst Picture: National Trust

Winter entry is £6.50 for non-members. For details visit nationaltrust.org.uk/sissinghurst-castle-garden.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More