About the Grotto
Alexander Pope’s Grotto is one of London’s most unusual historic spaces, created by the eighteenth-century poet beneath his villa on the banks of the Thames. Today it sits within the grounds of a working school and opens for just a handful of days each year.
Run by the Pope’s Grotto Preservation Trust, we work to protect, conserve and share this unique piece of cultural heritage with visitors, researchers and the local community.
Visitor information
Located within a working school, the grotto opens to the public on a limited number of days each year. Find practical information on to help plan your visit.
Upcoming open days
We offer a small programme of public open days and guided tours throughout the year. Explore upcoming event dates and book tickets online. Places are limited.
Shop for books
Discover a carefully chosen selection of books exploring Alexander Pope, Pope’s Grotto and his contemporaries. Titles are available to buy online, with proceeds supporting the Trust.
“Absolutely stunning! The restoration of Alexander Pope’s grotto is quite magnificent. The volunteers have done a marvellous job. I remember what the grotto looked like before they sympathetically restored it to its former glory.”
Latest news and events from Pope’s Grotto
23 Oct 2026
Pope and Swift: A Celebration of Satire – 30th November 2026
Join three renowned writers and speakers to hear how two friends, Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift, created a sensation in the eighteenth century and have influenced satire ever since.
30 Jun 2026
Recording of Pope’s Grotto London Luminaries talk now available
Many Happy Returns Mr Pope: The Story of the Conservation of Pope’s Grotto Alexander Pope’s was born on 21st May 1688 and we organised a very special birthday present for him. This was revealed in a talk in our partners at the London Luminaries Spotlight series of talks on Thursday 7th May. Two of our […]
21 May 2026
Happy Birthday Mr Pope!
On 21st May, Alexander Pope’s birthday, a small gathering of trustees, patrons, volunteers and supporters of our project gathered in the Grotto to reveal his birthday present.