Kelmscott Manor’s 2025 exhibition draws on the extraordinary collections of the Society of Antiquaries of London, following William Morris (1834-1896) from boyhood to gravethrough the books he read, wrote, collected and designed. The exhibition concludes with a look at his legacy in the field of book arts.
Morris is celebrated as the father of the Arts and Crafts Movement, famous for the designs that express his reverence for nature, but also have their roots firmly planted in history. He learned about both through reading, declaring himself to have been “a great devourer of books” from a young age. As his life unfolded, Morris developed into one of the great polymaths of his age, continually juggling overlapping projects and renowned by all who knew him for his astounding energy. He joked: “If a chap can't compose an epic poem while he's weaving tapestry… he'll never do any good at all.”
Whatever he was doing, and wherever he was, words mattered.
Not only was Morris a poet and author, but he also taught himself many of the crafts associated with fine book production. These were put into practice in his last great project, the Kelmscott Press, launched in 1891. Its impact was profound, prompting the private press movement that flourished during the early part of the 20th century, and continuing to influence many of today’s private presses and book artists.
When William Morris’s library was dispersed following his death, his widow and daughtersretained a small proportion of it, largely books he had given them. These remained at Kelmscott Manor and form the majority of the exhibits in this exhibition.
Exhibits include:
- Examples of the books Morris owned and read whilst a student at the University of Oxford.
- An annotated copy of his first volume of poetry, The Defence of Guenevere (1858).
- Examples of Morris’s renowned collection of early printed books and manuscripts, including an exquisite 12th century illuminated manuscript bible.
- Kelmscott Press publications, including the copy of the famed Kelmscott Chaucer given by Morris to his daughter, May. Also Morris’s design for the pigskin cover of the Chaucer, and some of the tools used to make it.
- Volumes by some of the leading late 19th and early 20th century private presses such as the Ashendene Press and Essex House Press.
- Fine bindings by Katharine Adams and the Doves Bindery
Award-winning poet Robert Seater and acclaimed visual artist Jessica Palmer will bring thefascinating stories and compelling atmosphere of Kelmscott Manor to life as part of theManor’s programme of learning and public engagement alongside the exhibition. There will also be a series of drop-in workshops throughout the season.
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 an example of traditional craftsmanship in harmony with the nearby village and surrounding landscape, towards the very upper reaches of the Thames.
The Manor has many intriguing stories to tell; its collections span over 300 years and reflect the lives, ideas, and creative legacy of those who lived and stayed there.
Kelmscott Manor is open to the public from 5 April-25 October 2025.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday – 10.30am to 5pm, last entry to Manor house 4pm.
A ticket is required for the house, entry to the grounds is free.
Facilities include toilets, licensed tearoom, gift shop and the Learning Barn with family activities.
Kelmscott Manor, Kelmscott, Lechlade GL7 3HJ
William Morris Quill Pen image © Society of Antiquaries of London (Kelmscott Manor)
