VISITORS are being invited to step back into Regency Salisbury as Mompesson House reopens its doors for the 2026 season this week.

The historic townhouse in Salisbury’s Cathedral Close will welcome visitors from Friday (March 6), as the National Trust launches a new year of storytelling, activities and behind-the-scenes conservation.

For 2026, the team will bring to life the social world of the Portman family, who lived at the house during the Regency period.

(Picture: National Trust/James Dobson)

From April, visitors will be able to follow the rhythm of a Regency year – from the family’s return to Salisbury in spring, to preparations for a summer ball, and finally the rituals of closing up the house for winter.

Seasonal activities, fun facts and even the chance to try some Regency dance steps will be on offer.

This year will also give visitors the opportunity to see major conservation work as it happens.

Throughout the spring, scaffolding will be in place at the front of the house for the routine redecoration of windows across all floors.

Inside, restoration work has begun on the North-East Bedroom, which is due to reopen later in the year.

The project includes repair and conservation of the ceiling, panelling, fireplace and flooring, as well as the preservation of an “incredibly rare” 18th century papier mâché decoration.

Conservator stabilising the papier mache decoration in the North-East Bedroom. (Picture: National Trust/Jennifer Grene)

Much of the house and garden will remain open while the work takes place.

Visitor experience officer for the National Trust at Mompesson Jennifer Grene said: “The house always looks its best after its winter clean, but this year visitors will also be able to see conservation happening in real time.

“It’s a unique chance to see how we care for this important eighteenth-century townhouse while also enjoying a dive into the glamour of the Regency social season.”

Mompesson House is open Friday to Tuesday, from March 6 to November 1, 11am to 4pm, with last entry at 3.30pm.

Entry is free for National Trust members.