The Shaw House

The Shaw House

Shaw House was completed in 1581 by Thomas Dolman, a member of a successful family who had made their fortune from the cloth industry in Newbury. This impressive manor has witnessed centuries of political and social tension and evidence exists for its contribution to some of the most notable events in English history.

The striking nature of its architecture established the Dolmans' position as pre-eminent in Newbury and the surrounding area. The Dolman family have been significant to the development of Shaw House; in all it was passed down through six generations between 1554 and 1728. During this time visitors to Shaw included several kings and queens on their royal progresses around the country as well as courtiers travelling from London to Bath.

It then became the setting for part of the Second Battle of Newbury in 1644, acting as headquarters for Charles I, while hand-to-hand battle was fought in the gardens between his army and that of the Parliamentarians.

Over the succeeding centuries Shaw House has been the country retreat of a Duke, the residence of an 18th century investor who had interests in the West Indian sugar plantations, and the home of a large Victorian family. At the outbreak of World War II the house was requisitioned by the War Office as accommodation for troops. Following the bombing of Newbury Senior Council schools in 1943 it took on its final role as a school for many generations of Newbury children. Having stood empty for over a decade a major restoration programme has rescued it from near dereliction and left it refurbished for the benefit of the community.

The House
Wander through five historic, unfurnished rooms where you will discover Shaw House's past through the Wheelie-do family friendly activities.

The Hall
The Great Hall was a common feature of most manor houses in the medieval and early modern periods. It was the first point of entry for visitors and, as the largest room in the house, functioned as a vital status symbol for the owner and his family

King Charles Room
This room is the subject of the most well-known Shaw House story. It is believed that on the morning of the Second Battle of Newbury in 1644 King Charles I narrowly escaped being shot by a stray musket ball whilst preparing for battle.

Dolman Suite
In the late seventeenth century, Thomas Dolman IV carried out alterations to the central range on the first floor in order to divide them into three large rooms, separated from each other by partition walls, with doorways in line which were intended to create a sense of grandeur.

Special Exhibition: 'Peeling Back the Years'
'Peeling Back the Years' is the first in a series of special exhibitions at Shaw House, which will change on an annual basis.

Shaw House Exhibition
This new exhibition focuses on the history of the house and its recent restoration. Here you can find out more about the many people over the centuries who have called Shaw House their home.

VISITORS INFORMATION:
Opening Times and Admission

Practical information on visiting Shaw House including details about the shop, cafe and activities.
Access
Most areas of Shaw House are accessible to those in a wheel chair or with limited mobility. We also have appropriate disabled persons parking and toilets. Further information is available in a downloadable document on the right hand side of this page.
Dogs
Only assistance dogs are permitted on site. Please do not bring dogs with you and leave them in your car.
Getting to Shaw House
Please see the downloadable document on the right hand side of this page.
Photography
Photography is permitted in the house and grounds, providing that it does not disrupt the enjoyment or safety of other visitors. If you wish to take photographs for commercial use of publication please speak to a member of staff.
Toilets
Public toilets and baby changing facilities are available inside the House.
Young Visitors
Shaw House is very child friendly and young people are very welcome.
High chairs are available in the café.
Baby changing facilities are located in the men's and women's accessible toilets in the basement.
The Cafe
Shaw House Cafe is located in what used to be the kitchen. The old fireplace and smoke jack can still be seen! Chose from a range of delicious sandwiches and tempting cakes.