Frequently asked questions

The cottage is not yet open for general public visits. Strictly limited visits may be possible by prior arrangement while conservation work continues. Please email info@blakecottage.org → before making plans or travelling.

We hope limited public opening will be possible in time for the bicentenary of William Blake’s death in August 2027. Visiting arrangements from then have not yet been decided and will depend on the progress of conservation work.

Blake Cottage is at 1 Blakes Road, Felpham, West Sussex PO22 7EB. It is in a residential neighbourhood. Please contact us before travelling: visits are strictly limited and must be arranged in advance.

William and Catherine Blake lived here from 1800 to 1803. Their time in Felpham was an important chapter in their lives and work. The cottage offers a rare connection with their everyday surroundings and with the imagination that continues to inspire people today.

The Blake Cottage Trust is the registered charity caring for the cottage and working to secure its public future. Our work brings together conservation, learning, creativity and community involvement, so that more people can encounter the Blakes’ story and legacy.

Our registered charity number is 1160716.

Restoring the roof was a vital milestone, but parts of the building are still exposed to the elements. The next urgent task is to finish protecting the fabric of the cottage from the weather before moving on to detailed conservation of the interior. The work must respect the historic building while preparing it for a sustainable public future.

We hope to begin limited public opening in time for August 2027, the bicentenary of William Blake’s death. This is an ambition rather than a confirmed opening date: it depends on conservation progress and the funding needed to carry out the work. We will announce confirmed visiting arrangements on this website and in our free newsletter.

You can make a one-off or regular donation, volunteer your time or skills, or help introduce others to the project. Public support is essential alongside our grant applications.

Donate to support the cottage →

We welcome enquiries from people who would like to help. Opportunities depend on the stage of the project and may include practical support, events, welcoming visitors and sharing specialist skills.

Tell us a little about your interests and availability at info@blakecottage.org →. We will discuss what may be suitable; please do not arrive to volunteer without an arrangement.

The bicentenary of William Blake’s death falls on 12 August 2027. Under #Blake200, the Trust will provide, support and promote events marking the bicentenary with artists, musicians, scholars and community partners. These activities are separate from the established local BlakeFest. We hope the year will offer opportunities to explore Blake’s continuing relevance through creativity and participation. Programme and booking details will be shared as they are confirmed.

Join our free mailing list →  to receive news about conservation, community activities, events and opportunities to help. Earlier newsletters are available in our newsletter archive, and News & community brings together recent highlights.