The House

The house contains a wealth of fascinating detail on family life in the Tennyson household, and explores the setting of some of Tennyson's best loved poems.

  • House and Estate History

    Farringford is a Grade 1 Listed Building and was the main residence of the Poet Laureate Alfred, Lord Tennyson from 1853 until his death in 1892.

    House and Estate History »
    architectural history
  • Restoration

    Over five years, Farringford’s house and grounds have been restored to their Tennyson-era splendour.

    Restoration »
    restoration of FArringford
  • How to Visit

    Opening times, admission prices and how to find us.

    How to Visit »
    How to visit Farringford
From 1853 until his death in 1892, Farringford was the main home of the renowned Victorian poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson.  In this secluded spot on the Isle of Wight, the new Poet Laureate and his family sought a retreat from the clamour of London life. But while Farringford provided a tranquil domestic haven, it also attracted many of Tennyson’s eminent friends, becoming a locus of intellectual and artistic activity. It remained the family home for successive generations, before eventually becoming a hotel in 1945.
More than half a century later, this dramatic Gothic house has been meticulously restored and redecorated in a late 19th-century style that reflects the Tennysons’ tastes, interests and lifestyle.  The grounds have also been returned to their authentic Tennyson-era condition, including an enchanting walled garden with a planting scheme based on contemporary descriptions and artistic depictions by the poet’s friends.
We are delighted to open Farringford to the public as an historic home, and we hope that during your time here you will enjoy learning more about Tennyson, his family and friends, and the enduring appeal of his magnificent poetry.
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