Shaw's Corner
Explore the preserved Edwardian home of Nobel Laureate playwright George Bernard Shaw, featuring his personal belongings and writing hut.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Shaw's Corner
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the preserved Edwardian home of Nobel Laureate playwright George Bernard Shaw, featuring his personal belongings and writing hut.
"A delightful and extremely interesting visit to the smallest National Trust place we've been to."
🚗 Parking is Limited
The car park is small (approx. 15 cars). Arrive early or consider alternative transport if visiting during busy periods.
📚 Browse the Bookshop
A small used bookshop is available in the entry kiosk, perfect for finding a literary treasure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
George Bernard Shaw's Study Hut
Garden
Step into the playwright's personal sanctuary, a small, charming hut where he penned many of his famous works.
Nobel Prize & Oscar Display
Inside the house
See the prestigious Nobel Prize certificate and Academy Award statue awarded to the celebrated playwright.
The Edwardian Villa
Main house
Explore the rooms of Shaw's country home, preserved as they were during his lifetime, offering a glimpse into his personal life.
The Orchard Garden
Garden
Wander through the picturesque garden, including a beautiful apple orchard, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Embrace the Self-Guided Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Limited
The car park is small (approx. 15 cars). Arrive early or consider alternative transport if visiting during busy periods.
📚 Browse the Bookshop
A small used bookshop is available in the entry kiosk, perfect for finding a literary treasure.
☕ Limited Refreshments
No cafe on-site, but basic beverages are sold at the entry kiosk. Bring your own snacks or plan to eat elsewhere.
🚶♀️ Garden Strolls
Enjoy a peaceful walk through the garden and see Shaw's writing hut. Plenty of seating available.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Limited
The car park is small (approx. 15 cars). Arrive early or consider alternative transport if visiting during busy periods.
📚 Browse the Bookshop
A small used bookshop is available in the entry kiosk, perfect for finding a literary treasure.
☕ Limited Refreshments
No cafe on-site, but basic beverages are sold at the entry kiosk. Bring your own snacks or plan to eat elsewhere.
🚶♀️ Garden Strolls
Enjoy a peaceful walk through the garden and see Shaw's writing hut. Plenty of seating available.
📜 Pre-book Tours
Guided tours offer a deeper dive into Shaw's life and work. Book in advance to guarantee your spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Shaw's Corner a small but very interesting National Trust property, appreciating the well-preserved house and the personal insights it offers into George Bernard Shaw's life. The garden and the display of his awards are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects, though some note the limited size and facilities.
"Small but interesting National Trust property. Formerly home to Sir Bernard Shaw. Interesting to see a house as is and the garden. Book early for a guided tour or easy to visit without a your a guides throughout."
Anne G
"This National trust is the former home of George Bernard Shaw, and left as he would’ve used it. It’s not huge as has a few rooms on each of the floors, but has about one small sign per room about objects and his life, and volunteers are great. you can also see his Nobel Prize upstairs.
Prebooked guided tours are available, though we did the self-guided visit, which took about 15 minutes in the house.
Small garden also available to walk through, including seeing his small writing shed.
Car park small, perhaps space for 15 cars, so may fill up during busy times. It’s only about a one minute walk to the house.
Small used bookshop in the entry kiosk.
No cafe, though a few beverages for sale in the entry kiosk.
Toilet: Basic single loo at the end of the house, also accessible from the garden - or a portaloo near the front kiosk."
Becky T
"The house that belonged to George Bernard Shaw, now run by the National Trust. Small, manageable, historic and very interesting. Includes his writing hut, his Nobel Prize certificate and Academy Award statue."
Larry Roxon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shaw's Corner is located in Ayot St Lawrence, near Welwyn, Hertfordshire. If driving, there is a small car park on-site. For public transport, you can take a train to Welwyn Garden City or Knebworth and then a taxi or bus.
Yes, there is a small car park available, but it can fill up quickly during busy periods. It's only a one-minute walk to the house from the car park.
While direct public transport is limited, you can reach nearby towns like Welwyn Garden City or Knebworth by train and then arrange a taxi or local bus service to Shaw's Corner.
The garden is generally accessible, and there is a portaloo near the front kiosk. The house itself has limited accessibility due to its historic nature. Check with the National Trust for specific details.
Shaw's Corner is typically open from Friday to Sunday, with specific opening times varying by season. It's always best to check the National Trust website for the most up-to-date information and to book your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, pre-booking is highly recommended, especially for guided tours, to ensure entry and avoid disappointment. You can book through the National Trust website.
Admission prices vary, and National Trust members can visit for free. Check the National Trust website for current ticket prices and any special offers.
Yes, pre-booked guided tours are available and offer a more in-depth experience of George Bernard Shaw's life and home.
Absolutely! Self-guided visits are welcome and typically take about 15 minutes to explore the house. Volunteers are available to answer questions.
Policies can vary, but generally, you can amend or cancel bookings through the National Trust website. It's advisable to review their specific terms and conditions when booking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore George Bernard Shaw's preserved Edwardian villa, his personal writing hut in the garden, and see his Nobel Prize certificate and Academy Award statue. The garden is also lovely to wander through.
A self-guided tour of the house usually takes around 15 minutes. You can spend additional time exploring the garden and browsing the bookshop.
Yes, there is a basic single toilet located at the end of the house, accessible from the garden, and a portaloo near the front kiosk.
Photography rules can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in the garden, but it's best to check with staff on-site regarding interior photography policies.
Wi-Fi availability is not typically advertised for National Trust properties like Shaw's Corner. It's advisable to download any necessary information or maps beforehand.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Shaw's Corner does not have a cafe or restaurant. Basic beverages are available for purchase at the entry kiosk.
Picnicking is usually permitted in designated areas of the garden, but it's always good to check the National Trust's specific guidelines for the property.
The surrounding Hertfordshire countryside offers charming villages with pubs and cafes. Welwyn Garden City and nearby towns will have more dining options.
The entry kiosk offers a selection of beverages for sale.
Shaw's Corner is primarily a historic house and garden visit. For private event bookings, it's best to contact the National Trust directly to inquire about possibilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the garden areas. For interior photography, it's best to confirm with the staff on-site, as flash photography is usually prohibited.
The orchard garden, the exterior of the Edwardian villa, and the charming writing hut offer picturesque photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Please check the National Trust's drone policy before flying.
Commercial photography and filming usually require prior permission from the National Trust. Contact their press or media department for inquiries.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens would be suitable. For garden shots, a wide-angle lens can capture the landscape, while a prime lens might be good for detail shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The garden is a definite highlight for children, offering space to explore and discover Shaw's writing hut. The orchard can also be a fun area to wander through. While there are no dedicated play areas, the natural environment provides opportunities for imaginative play. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the garden, as food options are limited on-site.
📚 Literary Enthusiasts
Explore the rooms where George Bernard Shaw lived, worked, and entertained, gaining insight into his daily life and creative process. Seeing his personal belongings, including his Nobel Prize certificate and Academy Award statue, offers a tangible connection to his achievements.
🚶♀️ Garden Lovers
The orchard is a charming feature, especially during blossom season. You can find plenty of quiet spots to sit and enjoy the tranquility. The garden also houses George Bernard Shaw's writing hut, adding a unique historical element to your walk. It's a perfect place to relax and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding this historic home.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Life and Legacy of George Bernard Shaw
The house itself is an Edwardian villa, and it has been preserved by the National Trust to reflect Shaw's life and work, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the environment that inspired him. Shaw was a prolific writer, known for plays like 'Pygmalion,' 'Man and Superman,' and 'Saint Joan.' He was also a prominent public figure, a Fabian socialist, and a Nobel Laureate in Literature in 1925. His sharp wit, social commentary, and progressive views are evident throughout his writings and his personal space at Shaw's Corner.
Visitors can see personal items, furniture, and even his Nobel Prize certificate and Academy Award statue, providing a tangible connection to his extraordinary life and enduring legacy. Shaw's Corner isn't just about the house; it's about understanding the man behind the words. The preserved rooms, the garden, and his personal writing hut all contribute to a rich narrative. It's a place where you can feel the presence of a literary giant and appreciate the setting that nurtured his genius.
Exploring the Gardens and Grounds
The garden was designed to be a place of relaxation and inspiration for George Bernard Shaw, and it retains much of its original character. A key feature of the grounds is Shaw's personal writing hut. This small, dedicated space allowed him to work in solitude, surrounded by nature. Stepping inside the hut offers a unique perspective on his creative process and the simple environment he chose for his work.
During spring, the orchard can be particularly beautiful with its blossom, adding another layer of visual appeal to the visit.
While not extensive, the gardens are well-maintained and provide a lovely outdoor space to complement the indoor exploration of Shaw's home. Practicalities for Your Visit
When it comes to refreshments, Shaw's Corner has limited facilities. There's no cafe on-site, though basic beverages are available for purchase at the entry kiosk.
Booking tickets in advance is strongly recommended, especially for guided tours, to secure your preferred time slot.
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