The National Trust has secured a £7 million project, which has led to the transformation of Sir Winston Churchill’s Kent family home.
The fund allowed the trust to acquire personal items, artworks and gifts given to the former prime minster from around the world. It also enabled historians to conduct deeper research in understanding Churchill’s life at Chartwell, before putting the compelling exhibition together.
The transformation welcomes visitors to Churchill’s secretary offices and his own personal art studio. Which with the help of historic photos have been recreated to how it was in the 1950s, with authentic typewriters, telephones, and inkwells upon display.
New interactive experiences are dotted around the former British prime minister’s house. Visitors will learn stories of Churchill’s family life and Chartwell’s famous guests, including Charlie Chaplain and David Lloyd George, before and after the Second World War.
Along with a wealth of information, the following exhibits are on display:
- Churchill’s Nobel Prize in Literature, which he was awarded in 1953
- Map case given to Churchill by American Present Roosevelt as a Christmas present during the height of the water
- 141 paintworks which have been curated using personal photos of Churchill’s Chartwell home
- Churchill’s personal collection of medals
- Hairbrushes made from the wood of the deck of Second World War ship HMS Exeter
The £7 million project was made possible by the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, members of the public and a variety of local trusts and charity groups.
Zoe Colbeck General Manager at Chartwell said: ‘Chartwell was Churchill’s beloved family retreat away from the stresses of political life and he often spoke of his wish for a museum on site at the house after his death. It was very special to the Churchill family and now also holds a special place in the hearts of many people.
“We have been delighted that so many who shared our ambition donated to the appeal to save such a wealth of items and make them more accessible to future generations. It has allowed us to tell this aspect of Churchill’s story in new and dynamic ways as part of our wider plans for Chartwell, and ensures that one of the leading figures of the twentieth century remains accessible to people of all ages to learn more about.”
Chartwell House is open between 1pm – 5pm, seven days a week. Due to COVID-19, staggered visiting times are in place, with visitors needing to book online beforehand.
In other UK news, there are plans in the pipeline for a £450 million film attraction at Pinewood Studios.
