Happy Families: Adventures with the Ahlbergs at Mottisfont

Enjoy a family-friendly exhibition exploring the much-loved children’s books created by Allan and Janet Ahlberg, featuring original artwork from The Jolly Postman, Happy Families and more. Outside, outdoor activity trails in summer and autumn introduce characters from the books, with fun games and challenges to complete.

This full retrospective of the Ahlbergs' work includes artworks that have never been shown publicly before. Over 70 original illustrations and text from the books will be displayed in family-friendly ways.

Much-loved stories including The Jolly Postman and Happy Families will be brought to life through playful and imaginative experiences. Big, bold wall displays will provide photo opportunities with colourful backdrops and favourite characters. And throughout the gallery, there'll be comfy areas for curling up with a book.

A room dedicated to The Jolly Postman series will include the original, hand-crafted draft of the first book. In the summer, there’ll be an interactive room for younger visitors dedicated to baby books such as Peepo and The Baby’s Catalogue. In autumn, the baby book display will be replaced with original artworks from the Funny Bones series.

Access: the gallery is on the second floor. We have digital versions of the exhibition available on lower levels for anyone unable to climb the stairs.

Outside, the Beech Circle will be transformed into an outdoor garden gallery with a reading and discovery area, decorated with images from Each Peach Pear Plum.

Find out more on their website