aventuro Back to map A
Historical places

Woolsthorpe Manor

4.6 · 1,545 reviews
A quiet and studious period atmosphere.
Woolsthorpe Manor, Woolsthorpe Manor House, Water Ln, Grantham NG33 5PD, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

During his stay at the manor in 1666, often called his 'annus mirabilis', Newton developed his theories on calculus, optics, and gravitation.

2

The original 'Flower of Kent' apple tree still grows on the property and has been verified by DNA testing as the authentic variety.

3

Newton returned to this house to escape the Great Plague of London, which forced the closure of Cambridge University.

4

The manor's Science Centre allows visitors to use prisms and lenses to recreate Newton's light experiments.

5

The property contains a 'gravity wall' where visitors can test the trajectory of projectiles.

6

The house features a 17th-century barn that has been restored for public use.

Overview

Woolsthorpe Manor is the 17th-century farmhouse where Sir Isaac Newton was born in 1642 and where he returned during the Great Plague of 1665 to conduct his most significant scientific research. It is owned and managed by the National Trust. The site features the famous 'Flower of Kent' apple tree, which is historically associated with Newton's inspiration for the theory of gravity. The house retains its 17th-century architectural character, including original stone floors and fireplaces. Visitors can access the room where Newton performed his prism experiments and formulated his laws of motion and optics. The grounds also contain an interactive Science Centre designed to demonstrate Newton's experiments.

Photo spot

The view of the manor house from the garden with the historic apple tree in the foreground.

Insider tips

Check the National Trust website before traveling to confirm the specific operating days for the Science Centre, as it occasionally functions on a different schedule than the house.

Wear comfortable, flat shoes to traverse the uneven historic flagstone floors and the grassy garden paths.

Bring a camera, as photography is permitted inside the house without flash.

What to avoid

Do not assume the Science Centre is open every day the house is; always verify the specific attraction availability if your visit focuses on the interactive exhibits.

Good to know

The property typically operates on a seasonal basis, often with reduced opening days or total closures during the winter months.

Etiquette

Avoid touching the historic surfaces, walls, or artifacts inside the house; observe signs regarding photography restrictions in sensitive areas.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in late summer, when the apple tree is in fruit and crowds are thinner.
Address
Woolsthorpe Manor, Woolsthorpe Manor House, Water Ln, Grantham NG33 5PD, United Kingdom
52.809, -0.630
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsThe 17th-century chamber where Newton developed his optics theories and the historic Flower of Kent apple tree.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in late summer, when the apple tree is in fruit and crowds are thinner..

The view of the manor house from the garden with the historic apple tree in the foreground.

Close by you'll find Twyford Woods, Former RAF North Witham, Wymondham Windmill.