Exhibitions
Discover the Longleat House Collections through in person and virtual exhibitions.
The rich and varied collections at Longleat House have been formed by the Thynne family over nearly five centuries. Our programme of exhibitions give you the opportunity to see items which are not normally on display, including material from the Longleat Archives and Libraries and objects too fragile to display on a permanent basis.
Man-tigers and kangaroos: The Longleat menageries
Running 21 March – 5 July 2026
Step into the rich history of wild animal encounters at Longleat with this fascinating exhibition, created as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations of the Safari Park.
Discover a series of unique historic documents and images that reveal the little-known story of Longleat’s 18th-century menageries, offering a glimpse into the Estate’s early presence of exotic animals.
Among the items on display are newly found records and bills detailing the care of 'wild beasts' in the 1730s, alongside the building of 'a new house for kangaroos' in 1796. These materials demonstrate the presence of a variety of animals in these menageries, including wolves, bears and mandrills, then known as 'man-tigers'.
The exhibition also explores connections with the royal menagerie at Kew and notable visits to the Estate in the late 18th century, bringing this remarkable period to life.
A highlight of the display is a beautiful watercolour, on loan from a private collection, offering a rare visual insight into Longleat’s early menageries.
Virtual exhibition: Medieval love debate at Longleat
This project tells the story of a late 15th century manuscript (MS 258) once owned by William Thynne, a senior official in Henry VIII’s household and uncle of Sir John Thynne, the builder of Longleat.
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Become a VIP: Treasures of Longleat House Tour
Go beyond the ropes on an expert-led tour of Longleat House, exploring hidden rooms and priceless artefacts up close. This exclusive experience costs £85pp and includes a complimentary Day Ticket to enjoy the rest of the park.
Book your tour