See the sights of Shaw House

The Elizabethan house will open for visitors on Friday, June 24 for guided tours

WHEN Newbury's Shaw House opens for visitors on Friday, June 24, it will not just be for tea, but also for a tour of the house.

Elizabethan mansion Shaw House, situated in Church Road, is open every weekend from April 1, but tours are normally only available for pre-booked groups.

During the tour, knowledgeable guides will show visitors the highlights, and share the stories of the house's rich history, including characters such as the super rich Duke of Chandos and the indomitable Mrs Farquhar.

The guides will also look at how the former owners used and altered the building while explaining the architectural significance of this late Tudor manor house.

The gift shop and exhibitions will be open, including the new special exhibition called Fleece, Fame and Fortune – Newbury and the cloth trade, which explores the importance of the industry that made Newbury a wealthy place and shaped the market town.

The first tour of the day will start at 10.30am and conclude with morning coffee in the café. The second tour will begin at 2pm and finish with afternoon tea.

If the tours prove effective, it will become a regular event.

Tickets cost £9.

Places are limited so advance booking is advisable. Contact Shaw House on 01635 279279.