Welcome

This impressive Grade 1 listed house was the childhood home of John and Charles Wesley, founders of the Methodist Movement. Built in 1709, Epworth Old Rectory will transport you back in time to discover their life and legacy. You are welcome to join us for a guided tour of the house and gardens or just explore at your leisure.

Opening Hours

Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays only – 10.30am to 3.30pm (last admissions 3pm)

Please note that guided tours are only available on Thursdays & Fridays (Saturdays for pre-booked groups only) 

NEW for 2026

Our Events Programme

From family fun days in our gardens searching for bugs, pollinators and powerful plants, to performances in the house and on the lawn, heritage crafting and cookery in Susanna’s Kitchen and  special days dedicated to Sheep Shearing and Apples! There something for everyone this year at Epworth Old Rectory. Find Out More

Discovery Bags for Young Visitors

If you want to enjoy the Old Rectory with your children we now have Discovery Bags that you can borrow – free of charge – to give young explorers the chance to discover all about the house and gardens using a bag full of useful resources. Get up close to our objects, draw a picture, roll a dice and see what you can find out, or take a look at our house through a different coloured lens. Ask in the shop on arrival to get your hands on a special bag, then enjoy your exploration together!

The Equiano Way

Help us develop and test a brand new Pilgrimage Route celebrating the life and times of Olaudah Equiano (c1745 – 1797) – a former enslaved person, a key figure in the British abolitionist movement and whose memoire John Wesley was reading on his deathbed. – Find Out More

Become a Friend of Epworth Old Rectory

Join us us as a Friend who HELPS – Explore our new Friends packages

If you join now you also have the opportunity to come along to our Spring Friends Event, on Saturday 23rd May from 2pm to 4pm, when we are hosting a special afternoon tea and tour of the Old Rectory and Gardens. Book Here if you are already a Friend. 

Borrow a Loan Box

If you are teaching pre-history, The Romans or Anglo-Saxons and Vikings this year then borrow one of our unique loan boxes for a Half-term for just £35. Plus explore more through one of our workshops or outreach sessions.

Explore John Wesley’s Physick Garden

Discover John Wesley’s book a Primitive Physick through our Walled Garden and new web pages that detail herbal remedies and ways to live well in the 18th century, some of which is still surprising relevant today (and not so much so!). Funded by The Royal Society.