Alington Ave, Dorchester DT1 2FN

National Trust - Max Gate


Max Gate is the former home of Thomas Hardy and is located on the outskirts of Dorchester, Dorset, England. It was designed and built by Thomas Hardy for his own use in 1885 and he lived there until his death in 1928. In 1940 it was bequeathed to the National Trust by Hardy's sister and is now open to the public.

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About



The National Trust is a UK-based charity that aims to preserve and protect historic places and open spaces for future generations to enjoy. One of the National Trust’s properties is Max Gate, located in Dorchester, England. This property was the former home of renowned writer Thomas Hardy and is now open to the public as a tourist attraction.

Max Gate is a beautiful and well-preserved property that offers visitors an insight into the life and work of Thomas Hardy. The property is located in a rural setting and is surrounded by lovely gardens that were designed by Hardy himself. Visitors can stroll around the gardens and take in the stunning views of the Dorset countryside. The gardens are well-maintained and offer a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy.

The property itself is a typical Victorian-style house, and visitors can explore the various rooms that Hardy lived in during his time at Max Gate. The rooms are well-preserved and give visitors a sense of what life was like for Hardy and his family in the late 19th and early 20th century. The house is decorated with original furnishings, including Hardy’s writing desk, where he wrote some of his most famous works.

Visitors to Max Gate can also learn about Thomas Hardy’s life and work through the various exhibits and displays throughout the property. The National Trust has done an excellent job of showcasing Hardy’s literary legacy, and visitors can learn about his novels, poetry, and other writings. There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to try their hand at writing like Hardy and learn about his creative process.

In addition to the house and gardens, Max Gate also has a tea room where visitors can enjoy a cup of tea and a light snack. The tea room is situated in the former stables of the property and has a charming and rustic feel. Visitors can enjoy a range of hot and cold drinks and a selection of cakes and sandwiches.

Overall, Max Gate is an excellent tourist attraction for those interested in the life and work of Thomas Hardy or those looking for a peaceful retreat in the Dorset countryside. The property is well-maintained, and the National Trust has done an excellent job of preserving the house and gardens. The interactive exhibits and displays make it a fascinating and educational experience, and the tea room is a lovely addition to the property. If you’re planning a trip to Dorset, be sure to add Max Gate to your itinerary.

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Opening Hours

Tuesday 10 am–4 pm
Wednesday 10 am–4 pm
Thursday 10 am–4 pm
Friday 10 am–4 pm
Saturday 10 am–4 pm
Sunday 10 am–4 pm
Monday Closed

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