THE childhood home of composer Ralph Vaughan Williams opens to the public next week after months of preparation.
Leith Hill Place, south of Dorking, is an atmospheric house with panoramic views across the Surrey countryside which was left to the National Trust in 1944.
Most recently used as accommodation for schoolboys, the house also has connections to the Wedgwood family and was often visited by Charles Darwin.
The building is described as "in transition" and is being opened on a trial basis, with visitors encouraged to give feedback on how it should be used in the future.
The sparse, high-ceilinged rooms will feature sound recordings to listen to, pianos to play and hands-on family activities.
Gabrielle Gale, visitor operations manager, said: "It's a chance to breathe life and laughter into a house that's been closed up for some time.
"We hope visitors will drop in as curious bystanders and leave as firm friends with a passion for this amazing house."
Leith Hill Place will be open to the public between 11am and 5pm, Friday to Monday, from July 26 until November 3.
Entrance is free to NT members (£3 non-members). Car parking costs £3.50 (members free) at the Rhododendron Wood car park, Tanhurst Lane, RH5 6LU.
There is a walk of 400m to the house through a field.
