Shaw House

19/06/2026

19/06/2026

Join us for a talk as part of the Festival of Archaeology with Martin Bell, Professor of Archaeology at the University of Reading exploring ‘Mesolithic Archaeology and Nature Conservation in the Kennet Valley.’

The environmental and landscape history of the Kennet Valley will be considered in terms of the setting it provided for Mesolithic hunter-gather-fisher communities between about 11,000 and 6000 years ago. During the earlier part of that period the middle Kennet had one of the most significant concentrations of human activity in Britain. We will consider how the activities of animals, especially deer and beavers, shaped the landscape in ways which made it attractive to people and how human communities, even at this early date, transformed aspects of the landscape by the use of fire.

The talk will consider Mesolithic finds in Newbury, Thatcham, Ufton and Wawcott, and the recent discovery of a decorated oak trunk at Boxford on the River Lambourn. This archaeological evidence tells us about the origins and history of our wonderful chalk stream landscapes and the history of habitats within the valleys which are of nature conservation importance.

Thursday 23 July 2026 | 7pm - 8pm | £5

Book online: https://tinyurl.com/2k5t793z

15/06/2026

Looking for a venue that blends history, tranquillity, and modern comfort?

Shaw House offers six bright, historic rooms ideal for meetings, presentations, product launches and more — all set-in peaceful surroundings just minutes from the M4/A34, it’s an ideal setting to bring teams together away from the noise and distractions of the office.

Enjoy free parking, WiFi, a relaxing café and beautiful gardens to unwind in.

Email [email protected] to check rates or book a show round.

14/06/2026

What's your favourite detail at Shaw House?

14/06/2026

The Berkshire Chamber Music Festival has a performance at Shaw House on Sunday 14 June (Performance at 7.30pm), please note this event has sold out and there will be no tickets available on the door.

12/06/2026

Number 9!

A wonderful architectural feature is further highlighted with thanks to the reinstalment of the mirror at the end of the Dolman Suite. The feature, known as an enfilade, was introduced in the 1690s to draw the eye down the corridor and make it feel as though it continues forever!

Admire the enfilade feature on the first floor during your next visit.

In celebration of our 20th year of being open to the public, follow our ‘20 things’ list to ensure you make the most of your visit to Shaw House! Visit www.westberkshireheritage.org to see our open dates.

09/06/2026

A brand-new playground is coming to Shaw House, with work starting this week!

Featuring a unique ‘Great Hall’ play structure inspired by the house’s history, the new space will also include inclusive features like sensory panels, a nest swing, an accessible carousel and balance trails. There’ll be something for everyone to enjoy, making it perfect for family days out.

As part of the improvements, visitors will also be able to enjoy a new catering offer, with paninis available from Gladys, the on-site trailer. An opening celebration is planned for later this summer, stay tuned for details!

Read more via the link in the comments

09/06/2026

Enjoy the beauty of summer at Shaw House!

Browse over 60 local stalls located on the Great Lawn and enjoy refreshments from our café, bar and caterers. For our younger visitors there will be creative crafts, face painting, a magic show from Mr Muddle and a bouncy castle.

Dogs on leads are welcome outside.

Sunday 19 July | 11am – 4pm | Adults £2, Children £1 (Free for children aged 3 years and under)

04/06/2026

We're starting to wonder if the new cast of Toy Story are moving in?

If you recognise any of these friends, get in touch. We'd love to reunite you!