Painted rooms behind a High Street shop / MARLBOROUGH

The Merchant’s House, Marlborough

Go beyond the shopfront into the house of a silk merchant, built after Marlborough’s great fire. Painted decoration, timberwork and the process of restoration give the rooms their interest. Choose a guided visit for more explanation, or ordinary admission when you prefer to move at your own pace.

The Merchant’s House exterior on Marlborough High Street — Photo: David Smith

Before you go

Use the house’s own current admission page: older tourism articles still describe a past closure. The shop and historic rooms have different visiting hours.

The practical details

Where to find it: 132 High Street, Marlborough SN8 1HN
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: Ordinary admission does not currently require booking; guided tours have listed dates and separate tickets. The house currently opens Monday–Saturday, with last admission earlier than shop closing. Groups need advance arrangements. Use town toilets first.
Access and getting around: The house has uneven floors, level changes and an uneven staircase. Doorways may not accommodate a wide wheelchair. Telephone before booking to discuss the rooms you can reach; do not assume shop access means access throughout.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: Children currently enter free. Look for painted details and compare the rooms with homes today, but check whether the chosen guided tour suits your children’s attention span. There are no visitor toilets.

Practical information checked 15 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 1–1½ hours for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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