New for 2026: the Sheep Field Barn
Sheep Field Barn has been reimagined as a welcoming place to explore Henry Moore’s life and work, at the heart of his former home and workplace in Perry Green.
Originally an agricultural building used by Moore, the barn has long been part of the working life of the estate. Today, it has been carefully transformed into a light-filled gallery and learning space, while retaining its close connection to the surrounding landscape, where sheep still graze among monumental sculptures.
The gallery now includes a permanent introduction to Moore’s life and career, drawing on the Foundation’s rich collection and archive. Alongside this, a changing exhibition programme explores key themes in his work.
The opening exhibition The Shelter Drawings 1940-1941, presents Moore’s celebrated Shelter Drawings, created during the Second World War and central to his development as an artist.
Upgraded gallery spaces provide improved conditions for displaying works, including large-scale sculpture, while maintaining a calm and immersive visitor experience.
A place for making and learning
At the heart of the new building are dedicated spaces for learning, making and participation. Two studio-like workshops, filled with natural light, offer opportunities for hands-on activity inspired by Moore’s experimental approach to materials and form. Visitors, school groups and participants can create their own work in spaces designed to encourage curiosity, creativity and exploration.
Large windows and doors open directly onto the landscape, allowing learning to extend outdoors and maintaining a strong connection to the environment that shaped Moore’s practice.
Architecture and landscape
The redesigned barn balances old and new, extending the original structure with a light touch while preserving its character.
A generous entrance space creates clear views through the building to the surrounding fields and sculptures, reinforcing the relationship between art, architecture and landscape. Throughout, natural light and carefully framed views connect visitors to the wider estate.
What’s new
- A permanent exhibition introducing Moore’s life and work
- A new programme of changing exhibitions starting with The Shelter Drawings 1940-1941
- Two state-of-the-art workshop spaces
- Dedicated facilities for school groups and visiting learners
- Improved gallery environments for the display of artworks
- Enhanced accessibility, including fully accessible toilets
- New seating, technology and visitor facilities throughout
Sustainability
Sustainability has shaped every aspect of the redevelopment. The new extension is built primarily from timber, with reclaimed materials reused throughout, including timber sourced from Yorkshire barns. Natural materials such as wood and sheep’s wool insulation reflect the agricultural setting while reducing environmental impact.
The building incorporates solar panels, energy-efficient lighting and ventilation systems, and improved insulation to reduce energy use and improve comfort. Together, these measures significantly lower the building’s carbon footprint while supporting the long-term care of the artworks.
Find out more about the sustainability of Sheep Field Barn
What’s on
Find out more about what you can see and do this season at Henry Moore Studios & Gardens, Hertfordshire.
The Art and Life of Henry Moore
This exhibition in the newly-opened Sheep Field Barn Gallery presents over eighty sculptures made between 1922 and 1986, alongside photographs and archival materials from the Henry Moore Foundation Collections.
Henry Moore: Shelter Drawings
Our special display for 2026 focuses on Moore’s Shelter Drawings. Created during the Second World War, they are among the most powerful and widely recognised works of Moore’s career.
Upcoming events
See all events
Drop-in workshop
Shelter Drawings into Sculptures
12:00–16:00, last entry 15:30
Early years activity
Mini Moore: Collect, Make, Rearrange
11:00–13:00
Drop-in workshop
Shut-Eye Sculpt
12:00–16:00, last entry 15:30
Educator Network event
Learning Through Making
10:00–12:00
Learn more
Tickets
Visit Studios & Gardens as many times as you like during our open season.
Each ticket is valid for 12 calendar months.
Adults: £23
Over 65: £21
Students & under 25: £13
Universal Credit: £1
Family (1 adult & 3 children): £38
Family (2 adults & 3 children): £58
Children (5-18): £11
Under 5s: FREE
Getting here
We’re located just 27 miles north of London in the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside.
Our 2026 visitor season runs from 1 April to 25 October. We’re open Wednesday to Sunday, 11:00–17:00.
Henry Moore Studios & Gardens
Perry Green
Hertfordshire
SG10 6EE
United Kingdom
T: 01279 843 333
E: visitorservices@henry-moore.org
Roadworks are currently affecting routes to Henry Moore Studios & Gardens that travel through Green Tye. Access via Bourne Lane or Stansted Hill is unaffected.
If you are travelling to us, please plan your route in advance and allow extra time for your journey. Thank you for your patience, and we look forward to welcoming you soon.