About The Merchant's House (Marlborough) Trust

Welcome to The Merchant’s House, one of Marlborough’s finest surviving 17th-century buildings. Built in the 1650s for Thomas Bayly, a successful silk merchant, the house offers a rare and beautifully restored glimpse into post–Civil War domestic life. Behind its elegant High Street façade lie original wall paintings, timber framing, and carefully recreated furnishings that bring the world of a prosperous merchant family vividly to life. Today, thanks to dedicated restoration, the house stands as both a museum and a remarkable time capsule of Marlborough’s past.

Booking policy

The Merchant’s House – Visitor Booking Policy

Bookings
  • Visitors must present their confirmation email or booking reference on arrival. 

Arrival & Check-In
For Guided Tours or events, please arrive 5–10 minutes before your scheduled time. Late arrivals may not be admitted, as tours begin promptly to protect the visitor experience.
Cancellations & Refunds
  • Tickets are non-refundable unless we must cancel the event.
  • Visitors may transfer their booking to another available date.

Group Bookings
  • Groups of 10 or more must book in advance by contacting 01672 511491 / admin@themerchantshouse.co.uk

Health, Safety & Accessibility
  • Due to the historic nature of the building, some areas may have limited accessibility. Please check our accessibility information before booking.Visitors must follow staff instructions at all times to ensure the protection of the building and its collections.

Photography
  • Non-flash photography is permitted unless otherwise indicated.
  • Commercial photography must be arranged in advance.

Children & Young Visitors
  • Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please ensure young visitors are supervised, as many areas contain fragile historic materials.

Right to Refuse Entry
  • The Merchant’s House reserves the right to refuse admission or ask visitors to leave if behaviour puts the building, staff, or other guests at risk.

Cancellation policy

moderate policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 30 days before the activity is scheduled to start.