Bringing history to life at Shaw House

West Berkshire Council is pleased to announce a brand-new visitor experience at Shaw House in Newbury. The exciting new offer will include four stunning exhibitions within the beautiful rooms representing four hundred years of history: with a Tudor Oak Room, Queen Anne Drawing Room, Georgian Parlour and an Edwardian Bedroom.

Shaw House has stood on the north edge of Newbury since 1581. It has welcomed both Tudor and Stuart royalty, been the site of an English Civil War battle, survived both World Wars and schooled generations of local children. With the changes of ownership and use of the House over the centuries, the original contents were sold off in 1905 and 1945, leaving the rooms empty for more practical uses as a school and, more recently, as a conference and meetings venue.

From 1 April 2026, visitors can explore the newly dressed rooms and find out about the historical significance of the House. Each room will represent a different era of history with influences from the Tudor, Stuart, Georgian and Edwardian periods, along with interpretations of family life at Shaw House on display, helping visitors to step back in time and connect with our local heritage in fresh and engaging ways.

Councillor Nigel Foot, West Berkshire's Executive Member for Leisure, Sport and Countryside, said:

"Shaw House is one of West Berkshire's most treasured heritage sites, and this new visitor experience will bring its remarkable history to life in an exciting and accessible way.

"We're incredibly proud to showcase four centuries of stories, craftsmanship and character, and to enhance the gardens and facilities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a regular visitor or discovering Shaw House for the first time, there has never been a better time to explore this wonderful place."

Visitors can also access the special exhibitions 'Dressed for Battle' displaying English Civil War arms and armour on loan from Littlecote House, and our 'Dressed for Shaw' display with replica costumes highlighting the changing fashions through time.

The garden will see further improvements to complement the Tudor Garden, which opened in March 2025.  The next phase of the work will include a rose garden to replicate the gardens which were originally depicted in Country Life magazine in 1910, and further development of the Community Garden area. The house and garden improvements will be delivered with thanks to funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

A new accessible playground funded by the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is also planned to be in place by summer 2026.

New entry fees will be introduced from Wednesday, 1 April, allowing visitors to take a self-guided tour of the exhibition rooms (£9 for adults and £6 for children) and concessions, with a special rate of £6 for West Berkshire residents. Entry to the gardens and playground area will remain free of charge for everyone, ensuring Shaw House continues to be a welcoming space for the whole community to enjoy. The café and gift shop are open to all visitors, including anyone using the gardens or playground.

Guided tours will also be available to book from £12 per person. For more information, please email shawhouse@westberks.gov.uk.