The Red House

Visit Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears' home, garden and archive on the Suffolk coast

You might begin with a painting that leads to the studio, that takes you to a garden path and before you realise it, you’ve spent hours exploring, listening, looking, marvelling.

The Red House was the home of Britain’s most famous 20th Century composer Benjamin Britten and his partner, the singer Peter Pears. A place shaped by curiosity, hospitality and a love of art, design, music and nature. More than a home, this is their story.

The farmhouse, nestled in a beautiful five-acre garden, is home to their collections and archive, alongside a gallery space, museum shop and refreshments area.

The house itself is a Grade II 17th-century farmhouse with the interiors providing an accurate picture of their life together - telling not only their story but also that of the family, friends and famous guests who stayed or visited there. In the five acres of garden, Britten and Pears entertained guests, grew vegetables and played croquet and tennis.Today it has evolved into a wildlife-friendly environment that reflects their taste in flowers and plants.

The Composition Studio, the creative heart of the site where Britten composed works including Noye's Fludde, A Midsummer Night's Dream and War Requiem.

The Library, a beautiful, evocative space where Britten and Pears rehearsed and entertained and now a programme of recitals takes place throughout the year.

The Archive, home to Britten and Pears’ music manuscripts, papers, rare books and art collection. It is open by appointment for anyone to visit and is the most complete composer archive in the world.

For families we have our Friday morning Mini Music Makers sessions for 0-5 year olds as well as an array of family friendly events throughout the year.

Spiritual Britten, this year's exhibition explores the spiritual aspects of Britten's life and music. Benjamin Britten was born on St Cecilia's Day, the patron saint of music and music was his gift, vocation, and part of his identity. The Spiritual Britten exhibition looks at the defining moments and works that illustrate his motivations as a composer: his passions and the beliefs that shaped him and the works he created.

Come to a special recital in the Library, book a Guided or Art Tour of the house, walk the tranquil garden paths, attend one of our Stories From the Archive talks on Thursdays and Fridays or attend one of our many seasonal programme events.