Winnie-the-Pooh at Mottisfont

He is one of Britain’s most iconic children’s literary creations, but now the idyllic and innocent world of Winnie-the-Pooh is brought to life at the glorious National Trust property Mottisfont in Hampshire.

Visitors-at-Mottisfont,-Hampshire-©National-Trust-Images--Arnhel-de-Serra
Mottisfont in Hampshire is open to visitors all year round

This summer will see the the gallery at Mottisfont showing 36 hand-painted illustrations of Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends by E H Shepard. The artist made them especially for the beloved books Winnie-the-Pooh and The House at Pooh Corner that were written by A A Milne. These pictures have never been exhibited in the UK before and are a wonderful introduction to the stories for small children, or a walk down memory lane for adults who cherished these tales and their characters many moons ago.

Children and adults alike can also experience the boyhood world of Christopher Robin and his bear, Pooh, in the Hundred Acre Wood by embarking on a specially devised trail through the beautiful gardens and woodland of Mottisfont.

Pooh’s Great ‘Expotition’ at Mottisfont will involve tree climbing, tracking a Woozle, building a house of sticks just like Eeyore’s, designing a trap for any unexpected Heffalumps, and of course, making up songs. The River Test flows through the gardens of Mottisfont, where there are plenty of bridges; the stately home is now Britain’s number one destination for playing Poohsticks, which is an extremely important aspect of the trail.

Mottisfont began life as a 13th-century priory, became an imposing Victorian family home and then later a fantastically grand retreat for socialites looking to escape London. Its rich history and stunning heritage make it the perfect place to celebrate the treasured literary character of Pooh bear.

The House at Pooh Corner runs from 13 July to 15 September.

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