This summer, the National Trust is set to open the doors of Leith Hill Place to the public again for the first time in nearly forty years.

An atmospheric house with panoramic views across the Surrey countryside, Leith Hill Place was the childhood home of one of Britain’s greatest composers, Ralph Vaughan Williams, who gave it to the National Trust in 1944.

There’s very little left of the grandeur of the original house, but what you will see is a house in transition.

As well as the magnificent views and high-ceilinged rooms, there will be sound recordings to listen to, pianos to play and cups of tea to be drunk.

“This is such an exciting time for the National Trust and for Leith Hill Place,” says visitor operations manager, Gabrielle Gale.

“It’s a chance to breathe life and laughter into a house that’s been closed up for some time. We hope that 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 Fridays to Mondays, from July 26 to November 3, 11am to 5pm. Admission is free to National Trust members or £3 for non-members. Car parking is at the Rhododendron Wood car park, Tanhurst Lane RH5 6LU and is free to NT members or £3.50 for non-members.