‘Heaven on earth’:
Kelmscott Manor,
the Inspirational Cotswolds
Retreat of William Morris
Kelmscott Manor was the iconic country home of William Morris; poet, designer,
craftsman, socialist and founding father of the Arts and Crafts movement.
This Grade I listed house was loved by Morris as a survival of traditional
craftsmanship in harmony with the nearby village and surrounding landscape,
which lies towards the very upper reaches of the Thames, inspiring many of his
most important designs and writings, including the world-famous Willow pattern.
Today, visitors will find an outstanding collection, from early 17th Century
furniture to a unique collection of furnishings chosen by Pre-Raphaelite painter-
poet Dante Gabriel Rossetti and pieces from each of Morris’ London homes,
including several designed especially for the iconic Red House. Morris’ wife
Jane and daughter May also have vivid presences at Kelmscott Manor: many
examples reflect their beautiful and accomplished needlework. Perhaps the most
famous portrait of Jane Morris by Rossetti, The Blue Silk Dress completed in 1868
currently hangs in the White Room.
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