Talliston House & Gardens: Britain's Most Extraordinary Home
Explore a magical 25-year transformation of an ordinary house into Britain’s most extraordinary home filled with stories, art, and global treasures.
Talliston House & Gardens in Great Dunmow, Essex, is a unique artistic marvel transforming a former three-bedroom ex-council house into a labyrinth of 13 imaginative rooms and gardens. Over 25 years, its creator John Trevillian has curated 1,821 objects from 27 countries, blending history, fantasy, and craftsmanship into immersive, sensory experiences. Visitors enjoy guided tours revealing stories from ancient eras to futuristic visions, complemented by tea and cake in a setting unlike any other.
A brief summary to Talliston House & Gardens
- Talliston House & Gardens, Talliston, 51 Newton Green, Dunmow, Great Dunmow, CM6 1DU, GB
- +447760171100
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance as visits are limited and operate mainly on the last Sunday of each month.
- Wear comfortable shoes and avoid high heels to protect the delicate interiors.
- Arrive early at the nearby Queen Victoria pub to gather before the tour starts, especially in wet weather.
- Enjoy the included tea and cake during your visit to enhance the immersive experience.
- Note that there is no disabled access, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from London, take the M11 northbound and exit onto the A120 towards Great Dunmow. The journey typically takes 50 to 70 minutes depending on traffic. Parking information is provided upon booking; parking is limited and coordinated to minimize local disruption. There is no on-site parking for disabled visitors.
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Train and Taxi
Take a train from London Liverpool Street to Stansted Airport or Bishop’s Stortford, with journey times between 40 and 60 minutes. From either station, a taxi ride of approximately 15 to 20 minutes will bring you to Talliston House & Gardens. Taxi fares range from £20 to £30.
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Bus and Walk
From Bishop’s Stortford, local buses run to Great Dunmow with a travel time of around 30 minutes, though services are infrequent. From the bus stop in Great Dunmow, expect a 20-minute walk over mostly flat terrain to the house. This option is best for those comfortable with moderate walking and checking bus schedules in advance.
Talliston House & Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Talliston House & Gardens
A Transformative Vision Rooted in Ordinary Beginnings
Talliston House & Gardens began as a modest three-bedroom semi-detached ex-council house in Great Dunmow, Essex. In 1990, John Trevillian embarked on an extraordinary 25-year journey to reimagine this unassuming home. What started as a personal artistic endeavor evolved into a sprawling creative project that preserved the original floorplan while transforming every space into a distinct 'location' or room, each with its own story, atmosphere, and era. From ancient civilizations dating back to 4000 BC to speculative futures in 2228 AD, the house is a time capsule of human imagination and history.Immersive Rooms and Gardens Filled with Global Treasures
The house features 13 uniquely themed rooms and gardens that incorporate 1,821 carefully selected objects sourced from 27 different countries. Each space is designed to engage multiple senses with authentic smells, sounds, and lighting—there are over 50 styles of lightbulbs used throughout. Highlights include a 1920s New York-style office, a Japanese conservatory, and a staircase reminiscent of a fairytale castle. The gardens surrounding the house complement the interior’s magical ambiance, offering visitors a seamless blend of nature and art.A Journey Through Time and Fantasy
Visitors experience a guided tour lasting approximately two and a half hours, led by members of the creative team who reveal the intricate details and stories behind each room. The house’s narrative draws inspiration from classic fairy tales such as Grimm’s stories, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and Peter Pan’s Neverland, creating a whimsical and enchanting atmosphere. The gothic horror-inspired bedroom adds a thrilling contrast, showcasing the breadth of themes explored within the home.Community and Craftsmanship at the Heart
The transformation of Talliston was made possible by a dedicated team of artists, volunteers, and local tradespeople who contributed their skills over decades. This collaborative spirit is reflected in the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail found throughout the property. The house is not run as a commercial business; all proceeds from visits support its ongoing maintenance and preservation, ensuring that this living artwork remains vibrant and accessible.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Tours operate on a pre-booked basis, typically on the last Sunday of each month, and include refreshments such as tea, coffee, and cake. The setting forbids large bags, high-heeled shoes, and pets to protect the delicate environment. Unfortunately, the property does not have disabled access. Visitors gather initially at the nearby Queen Victoria pub before the tour begins, providing a comfortable meeting point. The house’s intimate size and detailed thematic rooms make it a captivating destination for those interested in art, history, and immersive storytelling.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Talliston House & Gardens stands as a testament to creative vision and perseverance, transforming a typical suburban home into what The Sunday Times calls 'Britain’s most extraordinary home.' It challenges conventional ideas of heritage and domestic space, inviting visitors to explore a rich tapestry of cultural references and artistic expression. The project continues to inspire with its blend of history, fantasy, and craftsmanship, making it a unique cultural landmark in Essex.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nigel’s Gate
11.7 km
Discover Nigel’s Gate, a tranquil historic landmark in Little Henham blending rural charm with timeless English heritage.
Finchingfield Post Mill
12.6 km
Discover Essex’s oldest post mill, a charming 18th-century landmark overlooking the picturesque village of Finchingfield.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
21.0 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
Laindon War Memorial
33.7 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Kentwell Hall
35.3 km
Explore Kentwell Hall, a stunning Tudor gem in Suffolk, rich in history, lush gardens, and engaging events for an unforgettable experience.
National Trust - Rayleigh Mount
36.2 km
Explore the historic Rayleigh Mount Castle in Essex, offering stunning views, rich heritage, and a perfect day out amidst beautiful landscapes.
Rayleigh Windmill
36.2 km
Experience the enchanting history and scenic beauty at Rayleigh Windmill, a heritage gem perfect for families and history buffs alike.
National Trust - Copt Hall Marshes
36.5 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich wildlife of Copt Hall Marshes, a serene nature reserve in Little Wigborough, perfect for a peaceful day out.
Balkerne Gate
37.1 km
Explore Balkerne Gate, Britain's largest surviving Roman gateway, a monumental symbol of Colchester’s ancient Roman heritage and architectural mastery.
Jumbo Water Tower
37.2 km
Explore the Jumbo Water Tower in Colchester, a splendid Victorian architectural marvel and historical landmark that showcases the city's rich heritage.
Lord Byron Inn
37.3 km
Cozy Trumpington pub-inn with hearty meals, quiet garden rooms, and easy Cambridge access—authentic English hospitality awaits.
The Dutch Quarter
37.4 km
Explore the enchanting Dutch Quarter in Colchester, a historical landmark with stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
St John's Abbey Gate
37.6 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of St John's Abbey Gate, a must-visit heritage site in Colchester.
Whitewebbs Museum of Transport
37.6 km
Explore the rich history of transportation at Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, featuring vintage vehicles and fascinating memorabilia in Enfield.
Middle Mill Weir
37.6 km
Historic Middle Mill Weir on the River Colne, a testament to Colchester’s water-powered industrial heritage and enduring community spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Gardens of Easton Lodge
3.1 km
Discover the restored Edwardian splendor and tranquil beauty of The Gardens of Easton Lodge, a historic 23-acre garden in Essex.
National Trust - Hatfield Forest
8.7 km
Explore ancient oaks, serene lakes, and rich wildlife in Essex’s last intact medieval royal hunting forest.
John Webb's Windmill
8.8 km
Explore John Webb's Windmill, Thaxted's iconic 1804 tower mill blending history, engineering, and heritage in Essex's charming countryside.
Mountfitchet Castle & Norman Village
10.9 km
Step into 11th-century Norman England at this unique open-air museum, where a reconstructed Motte and Bailey castle, a medieval village, and roaming animals create a full-day family adventure.
House on the Hill Museum
11.0 km
Explore Europe’s largest private toy collection with interactive exhibits, nostalgic treasures, and unique film memorabilia at House on the Hill Museum.
Great Notley Country Park
11.3 km
Explore Essex’s largest play trail, thrilling Sky Ropes, and serene natural beauty at Great Notley Country Park’s 100-acre family-friendly haven.
Finchingfield Guildhall
12.5 km
Explore centuries of village life in this beautifully restored 15th-century Guildhall, a living heritage gem in the heart of Finchingfield.
Finchingfield unesco world heritage bid
12.6 km
Explore the oldest windmill in Essex, perched above the picturesque village of Finchingfield, a timeless symbol of rural heritage and charm.
Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens
13.8 km
Discover peaceful walks, diverse trees, family fun, and a welcoming café in Braintree’s cherished green oasis.
The Rayleigh Arms
16.4 km
A warm, traditional Essex gastropub in Terling serving hearty classics and fostering community spirit.
Admirals Park and Tower Gardens
16.5 km
A historic and tranquil green oasis in Chelmsford, blending Victorian gardens, riverside walks, and family-friendly recreation.
The Gibberd Garden
16.8 km
Discover The Gibberd Garden, a tranquil 9-acre post-war sculpture haven blending art and nature in the heart of Harlow.
Chelmsford Cathedral
17.4 km
A peaceful, historic sanctuary in Chelmsford city centre blending medieval charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
Central Park
17.5 km
Historic Chelmsford park blending nature, sports, family fun, and vibrant community events across 35 acres of green space.
High Chelmer Shopping Centre
17.6 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant indoor shopping centre with over 80 stores, diverse dining, and convenient parking all under one roof.
Essential places to dine
Pig & Truffle
3.5 km
Historic charm meets modern British cuisine in a cozy village setting, delivering refined flavors and warm hospitality at Pig & Truffle.
Galvin Green Man
10.4 km
Historic 14th-century gastropub near Chelmsford offering award-winning seasonal British cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Castle - Great Leighs
11.7 km
A charming and cozy English village pub in Great Leighs serving freshly cooked, reasonably priced meals with friendly service and warm ambiance.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
12.0 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
12.4 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
The Square & Compasses
13.9 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
The Chequers Matching Green
14.1 km
A charming gastro-pub overlooking Matching Green’s cricket pitch, blending traditional English village charm with modern dining comfort.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
16.9 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
17.7 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
17.8 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Acanteen
17.8 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
Cosy Club
17.8 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
The New London
18.0 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Russells Restaurant
20.3 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Bartellas Restaurant
20.5 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Curiosity Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Great Dunmow at The Curiosity Shop, a charming boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
George Yard Shopping Centre
13.4 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Riverside Retail Park
17.4 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
24.1 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
Blush Boutique Essex
25.7 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
The Emporium Maldon
27.5 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
French Quarter
28.6 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
28.6 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
28.6 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
Love Local Essex & Suffolk
30.4 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating the rich heritage and creativity of Essex and Suffolk at this charming Copford gift shop.
Mint of Hertford
30.7 km
Discover sustainable luxury and personalized styling at Mint of Hertford, your destination for exquisite pre-loved ladies’ fashion in Hertford.
Eye Mind Heart
30.8 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish homewares, and charming toys at Eye Mind Heart, Hertford’s beloved boutique shop for all ages.
Ruby Room
30.8 km
Discover quirky, independent women’s fashion and unique gifts at Ruby Room, Hertford’s family-run boutique celebrating style across generations.
Gingerlillie Boutique - Women's Clothing in Hertford
30.9 km
Discover curated designer women's fashion and accessories with personalized service in the heart of Hertford’s historic Market Place.
Rossi's Attic
31.0 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and charming collectibles at Rossi's Attic, Hertford’s beloved boutique gift and antique shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fox and Goose
17.0 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
The Ale House
17.2 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant craft beer bar where you can bring your own food and enjoy a welcoming, lively atmosphere with expert service.
Voodoo Keller Bar
17.5 km
Discover Chelmsford’s underground cellar bar with 12 craft taps, lively rock vibes, and a cosy atmosphere perfect for beer lovers and night owls.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
17.7 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
17.9 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Chelmsford offering creative drinks, stylish interiors, and a lively social atmosphere from brunch to late night.
The Orange Tree
17.9 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Bootmaker
17.9 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Be At One - Chelmsford
17.9 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Fox & Hounds
18.8 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
20.3 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
The Bear Inn - Stock
24.2 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
24.5 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Queen Victoria Public House
27.0 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
Harry's Bar
27.9 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
The Three Tuns
28.1 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Great Abington blending authentic Thai cuisine with charming accommodation and a warm village atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Chelmsford
17.8 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Club Tantalize
17.9 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
17.9 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
25.6 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
The Hertford Club
30.9 km
A historic private members’ club in Hertford, renowned for real ales, hearty home-cooked meals, and a vibrant social scene.
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31.0 km
Vibrant nightclub and Asian fusion lounge blending historic charm with lively nightlife in Hertford’s Parliament Square.
The Loft Basildon
34.7 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
37.1 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
Trilogy Nightclub
37.5 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
Sing Dizzy
38.2 km
Sing Dizzy offers Cambridge a lively karaoke bar experience with costumes, props, and an extensive song list for unforgettable nights of fun and music.
Faces NightClub
38.4 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
Salisbury Club
38.6 km
Cambridge's cozy Mill Road club: retro discos, pool tables, cheap drinks, and community spirit in a true local gem.
The Calling
38.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Calling, Cambridge's premier event management venue, perfect for unforgettable experiences and fun times.
80s karaoke bar
39.1 km
Neon-lit, 80s-themed karaoke on Hills Road—compact, group-friendly singalongs from the early evening into the night.
The Tram Depot
39.8 km
Discover the lively ambiance of The Tram Depot in Cambridge, where great food, local ales, and music nights create unforgettable experiences.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Bohemian Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
