Arundells Announces Accredited Museum Status, New Digital Guide, and Reopens for 2025 with Music Exhibition and Free Family Music Activity Day

Arts Council England has awarded Arundells full Accredited Museum status. This prestigious award acknowledges Arundells’ commitment to the highest standards of professional museum practice. It demonstrates the team’s commitment to conserving and sharing the beauty of the house and collection at Arundells and creating welcoming, inspiring, unique and fun experiences for everyone.

Ivan Smith, Manager, expressed his delight, stating, “This achievement reflects the tireless efforts, passion, and commitment of our trustees, staff, and volunteers. It truly highlights the unique importance of Arundells and its collection, and we are immensely proud.”

Digital Accessibility with Bloomberg Connects

Arundells has launched a digital guide on Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and cultural culture app created by Bloomberg Philanthropies. The new guide makes Arundells accessible worldwide and enhances the experience of onsite visitors. Photo, audio and video features offer fresh insights into collection highlights and the history of the house.

Kate Walter, Curator, said: “Joining Bloomberg Connects allows Arundells to offer a richer visitor experience, both on-site and virtually. We’re thrilled to be part of a global community celebrating arts and culture through innovation. Bloomberg Connects enables us to share the unique history and personal stories of Arundells in new ways. The platform makes Arundells more accessible and inclusive, fostering a deeper understanding of this remarkable house for everyone.”

The Art of Music Exhibition: A Celebration of Heath’s Passion

The 2025 season will launch with a fresh exhibition, “The Art of Music.” As an accomplished conductor and musician, Heath found “joy for life” in music. The exhibition will explore the intersection of art and music through a series of pop-up displays in the house showcasing fine art, musical instruments, and eclectic musicalia. Arundells reopens to visitors from Thursday 20th March.

Get Ready to Make Some Noise! Free Family Music Activity Day at Arundells

Adding to the musical festivities, Arundells will host a FREE Family Music Activity Day on Saturday, June 29, 2025, from 10 am to 5 pm.

Families can dive into a jam-packed day of sea shanty sing-alongs, hands-on sound exploration led by Emily Askew and Louise Jordan, a lively Family Ceilidh Dance, and the opportunity to play Sir Edward Heath’s own Steinway piano.

This event is made possible by the generous support of the Cosman Keller Trust.

About Arundells:

Arundells, nestled within Salisbury’s historic Cathedral Close, was the cherished home of Sir Edward Heath, Britain’s former Prime Minister. This historic residence offers a rare glimpse into the personal life and diverse interests of an off-duty politician, showcasing Heath’s extensive collection of art, ceramics, and political memorabilia.