Leith Hill Place

An atmospheric house set within Leith Hill with panoramic views across the Surrey countryside, Leith Hill Place was the childhood home of one of England's greatest composers, Ralph Vaughan Williams, who gave it to the National Trust in 1944. 

His grandparents, Josiah Wedgwood III and Caroline (née Darwin) moved there in 1847 and his great uncle, the famous naturalist Charles Darwin, conducted experiments in the grounds.

For nearly 40 years, Leith Hill Place had been tenanted as a school boarding house, and in summer 2013, we opened to the public for the first time since the 1960s. The house is at a crossroads in its history and we invite you to visit and see it in transition.

Feel inspired as you walk around a place that has been the setting for so much creativity, whilst taking in lovely views, listening to the music and relaxing with a cup of tea.  

Don't expect a perfectly restored National Trust place, but come with an open mind and a sense of adventure.