National Trust - 575 Wandsworth Road

An amazing National Trust house. Looks a bit run down from the outside but inside is a very different story. Former home of Kenyan poet and civil servant Khadambi Asalache. He transformed the interior with intricate fretwork and painted floors. Not allowed to take photos so the outside shots and postcards doesn't do it any justice. Definitely worth a visit. Two mins from Wandsworth Road overground. The volunteers were excellent guides and had great knowledge. Loved it. Free to NT members, £11.00 for non-members.

This place is incredible. I went having heard about the fretwork, but I didn't know about the rest. It really is the embodiment of one, very interesting person's fascinating idiosyncrasies, which the NT are clearly dedicated in preserving. On the one hand, the house is the the result of decades of work, on the other, he didn't bother decorating things that were out of sight from his preferred sitting positions in each room. He was exacting in placing ornaments so that they caught the light, but he clearly had an aversion to sandpaper. My favourite detail - the clearly unread copy of Ulysses prominently placed on the book shelves - I will do the same when I gift my house to the NT. Visit.

What a gem this house is. Truly beautiful and well worth a visit if you can! My husband and I were charmed by it all. It can only accommodate a few people at a time so make sure you check when it’s open and book ahead.

Fascinating tiny house with the most extraordinarily detailed fretwork decoration added over 20 years by the artist / author owner. Also lots of decorative items from his native Kenya and travels to Africa, Europe and elsewhere. Very knowledgeable guides. Very fragile so, pre-booked tours only. Very different from your usual stately home. Recommended.

Loved this NT! When waiting for the tour guide I was wondering what would be in store, as it's a bit run down from the outside, but the second you step into the door you're transported into a weird, magical wooden world! The tour guide was fantastic, telling us about the house's history, and how the artwork was created, and she patiently answered all of our questions (there were 6 of us in the tour group). It felt like a once in a lifetime experience and I'm so glad I went - would absolutely recommend a visit.

When you think about a National Trust Property, 575 Wandsworth Road is not at all what would come to mind; however, it is so different and unique that a visit is a must, in particular if you visit London and have a National Trust membership. It is a pity we couldn't take pictures, however, you need to visit it to appreciate the work that during 20 years Mr. Asalache put to create such a fantastic work of art. Now, it feels like a home and I loved visiting it; but it is definitely a home I wouldn't want to live in; in particular when cleaning time comes; plus all the asymmetry would drive me mad.

The kind and knowledgeable guides really made this a lovely afternoon visit. What a unique and beautiful property, I am so glad I was able to see it. Thank you.

Such a hidden gem! Recommend to visit after you’ve been every big names in London. Don’t forget to bring your own pair of socks or soft slippers.