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About
Join us for Cabinets Unlocked, a rare opportunity to see inside these highly decorative pieces.
Opened just twice a year, the cabinets are normally kept closed to protect the pristine interiors from overexposure to light, and to avoid excessive wear on hinges and locks. These special bi-annual events coincide with the conservation team’s careful condition checks of the collection.
Twenty prized cabinets and writing desks will be opened, as well as strongboxes and a harpsichord. Some never-before-seen objects from our stores will also be on display.
Ham’s collection of cabinets includes examples of marquetry, lacquer, and exquisite veneers from countries around the world including Japan, China, and Holland as well as England.
Highlights include the Ivory Cabinet in the North Drawing Room which dates from around 1660.
In the Long Gallery, see inside three cabinets including the Marquetry Cabinet. Installed in Ham House around 1675, it is the earliest recorded example of floral marquetry in England.
Our volunteer guides will also give short pop-up talks in the Long Gallery (subject to volunteer availability).
Other examples will be on display in the Duchess of Lauderdale’s Bedchamber and Private Closet, the Queen’s Apartments and the Duke’s Dressing Room.
Cabinets Unlocked runs during the house’s visiting hours. Ham House is open daily 12-4 (last entry 3.30). Please note the Long Gallery is accessed via stairs.
Guide Prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Book Tickets Online
Map & Directions
Road Directions
By Road
We are located on the south bank of the River Thames, west of A307, between Richmond and Kingston. Ham is readily accessible from the M3, M4 and M25 and the Richmond Park Ham Gate exit. If coming from Kingston the Ham Street turning is opposite the Hand and Flower Pub along the A307. Follow this road for a mile to Ham House.
Parking
There is free parking 400 yards away in the riverside car park at end of Ham Street (not National Trust). Nearby streets also offer free parking. SatNav: Directs you to stables on Ham Street, carry straight on past these to the free riverside car park. There is disabled parking available close by. You can view information about council run car parks via the Richmond upon Thames Council Website. You can also plan your route using the AA route planner website which tells you about parking in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.
Public Transport Directions
On Foot
We are located along the South bank of the River Thames. The Thames Path passes close to the entrance and is 1.5 miles from Richmond and 3 miles from Kingston. From the Thames Path, opposite Hammerton’s foot ferry, walk across a small wooden bridge and follow the well-trodden path towards Ham House.
By Bus
The 371 or 65 bus routes stop near us. 371 Richmond to Kingston, alight Ham Street bus stop, then ½-mile walk (follow signposts). 65 Ealing Broadway to Kingston, alight Sandpits Road bus stop on Petersham Road by Ham Polo Ground, ¾ mile walk along historic avenues (both pass Richmond train station and Kingston train station).
By Underground
The nearest underground station is Richmond on the District Line. The station is 1½ miles by footpath, 2 miles by road. Please see bus directions for travel information from Richmond Station.
By Cycle
The NCN4 route passes along the nearby A307. There are bicycle racks near visitor reception, inside the property.
By Train
Richmond station is 1½ miles by footpath, 2 miles by road. The route offers a smooth all-weather surface to walk on or buses and taxis offer another way to continue your journey to us.
By Ferry
Hammerton's Ferry, a seasonal foot and bike ferry travels across the River Thames from the Twickenham towpath (by Marble Hill House - English Heritage) to Ham House and Garden. Small charge applies, not NT.
