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The William Morris Society at Kelmscott House, London

Explore the inspiring legacy of William Morris at his historic London home, a hub for art, design, and social activism.

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The William Morris Society, located at Kelmscott House in Hammersmith, London, is a museum and cultural hub dedicated to the life and legacy of William Morris, a Victorian-era designer, craftsman, poet, and socialist. The Society occupies the Coach House and basement of Morris’s former home, showcasing original textiles, wallpapers, and printing presses. Open Thursday to Sunday, it offers a rich insight into Morris’s influential contributions to the Arts and Crafts movement and his social ideals.

A brief summary to The William Morris Society

  • 26 Upper Mall, London, W6 9TA, GB
  • +442087413735
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Thursday 1 pm-4 pm
  • Saturday 1 pm-4 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Plan your visit Thursday to Sunday, 10am–4pm, with last entry at 3:30pm; admission is £5, free for children under 16 and local residents.
  • The main Kelmscott House is a private residence; the museum is in the Coach House and basement only.
  • Check the Society’s website for special events, workshops, and guided tours to enrich your visit.
  • Nearest tube stations are Ravenscourt Park (10-minute walk) and Hammersmith (15-minute walk).
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take the London Underground to Ravenscourt Park station on the District line, then enjoy a 10-minute walk along Upper Mall to Kelmscott House. Alternatively, Hammersmith station (District, Piccadilly, Hammersmith & City lines) is a 15-minute walk. Bus routes serving King Street and Hammersmith Bridge Road also stop nearby. Travel time from central London is approximately 20–30 minutes. No additional fare beyond standard London transport charges.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    A taxi or rideshare from central London to Kelmscott House typically takes 20–40 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £15–£30. Drop-off is available near 26 Upper Mall. Note that parking is limited in the area.

  • Walking

    If staying nearby in Hammersmith or Ravenscourt Park, walking to the Society is pleasant and accessible, taking about 10–15 minutes along flat, paved paths. The area is safe and suitable for visitors with moderate mobility.

The William Morris Society location weather suitability

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Discover more about The William Morris Society

William Morris: A Visionary of Victorian Britain

William Morris (1834–1896) was a multifaceted figure whose work as a designer, poet, printer, and socialist left a lasting mark on Victorian Britain and beyond. He was a pioneering force behind the Arts and Crafts movement, advocating for craftsmanship and beauty in everyday objects as a response to industrial mass production. Morris’s ideals extended into social activism, historic preservation, and environmentalism, making him a revolutionary figure whose influence remains significant today.

Kelmscott House: Morris’s London Home and Creative Hub

The William Morris Society is based in the Coach House and basement of Kelmscott House, located at 26 Upper Mall, Hammersmith. Morris lived here from 1878 until his death in 1896. While the main house remains a private residence, the Society’s museum occupies the adjoining Coach House, where Morris held meetings of the Hammersmith Socialist League and ran his manufacturing business, Morris & Co. The museum space preserves the atmosphere of Morris’s working environment and social activism.

Collections and Exhibitions: A Window into Morris’s World

Visitors can explore a rich collection of original Morris textiles, wallpapers, hand-drawn designs, and one of the original Albion printing presses used by the Kelmscott Press, which Morris co-founded to revolutionize book design. Exhibits also include memorabilia from the Socialist League era, such as membership cards designed by Walter Crane, reflecting Morris’s political engagement. The museum offers rotating exhibitions and workshops that deepen understanding of Morris’s artistic and social legacy.

Educational and Cultural Activities

The Society hosts a variety of events including lectures, workshops, and tours that explore Morris’s life and work in depth. These activities aim to educate visitors and members about Morris’s contributions to art, literature, and social thought. The Society also welcomes school groups and private tours, providing tailored educational experiences that highlight Morris’s impact on design and socialism.

Visiting Experience and Atmosphere

The museum’s setting in the historic Coach House offers an intimate and tranquil environment, enhanced by the cobbled pathway entrance beside Kelmscott House. The volunteer-staffed museum fosters a welcoming atmosphere for those interested in Victorian art, design, and history. Nearby Hammersmith provides ample amenities including cafés and pubs for visitors to enjoy before or after their visit.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

The William Morris Society continues to preserve and promote Morris’s ideals of craftsmanship, social justice, and environmental stewardship. It serves as a cultural landmark celebrating his enduring influence on design and political thought. Through its collections, events, and publications, the Society keeps Morris’s vision alive for contemporary audiences and future generations.

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