Shaw's Corner: The home of George Bernard Shaw and Charlotte Payne-Townshend

A historical haven

Shaw’s Corner was originally built in 1902 as a rectory but was deemed too large for the parish. In 1906, George Bernard Shaw and Charlotte Payne-Townshend moved in, eventually purchasing the property in 1920. The house, designed by the local firm Smee, Mence & Houchin, is a beautiful example of the Arts and Crafts architectural style, using local materials and craftsmanship.

For 44 years, Shaw’s Corner was not just a home but a creative sanctuary for Shaw. The house remains much as he left it, with rooms filled with personal artefacts and memorabilia. One of the most fascinating features is Shaw’s writing hut, a small, revolving structure he affectionately called “London.” This ingenious hut could be rotated to follow the sun, providing Shaw with optimal natural light throughout the day.

The gardens

The gardens at Shaw’s Corner are as enchanting as the house itself. Spanning 1.4 hectares, the grounds include a mix of formal and informal garden areas, offering visitors a peaceful retreat. Shaw and his wife were avid gardeners, and their influence is evident in the lush, well-maintained landscapes. The garden also features a statue of Saint Joan, a nod to one of Shaw’s most famous works.

Charlotte Payne-Townshend: The woman behind Shaw's Corner

Charlotte Payne-Townshend, born on 20 January 1857, in County Cork, Ireland, was an influential figure in her own right. She was deeply involved in political activism, particularly in the struggle for women’s rights and socialism. A member of the Fabian Society, Charlotte supported various social causes, including the London School of Economics, where she donated funds for the library and a women’s scholarship.

Despite her initial determination never to marry, Charlotte and Shaw developed a close relationship, bonding over their shared interests in philosophy, politics, and cycling. They married in 1898, and Charlotte’s wealth and independence allowed Shaw to focus on his writing without financial worries.

A unique double honour

George Bernard Shaw holds the unique distinction of being one of only two people to have won both a Nobel Prize and an Oscar. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925 for his work marked by idealism and humanity, with stimulating satire often infused with poetic beauty. Shaw’s Oscar came in 1939 for the Best Writing, Screenplay category, for his adaptation of his play “Pygmalion” into a film. This rare achievement underscores Shaw’s versatility and profound impact on both literature and cinema.

Notoriety and fame in the 1930s

The 1930s were a period of significant notoriety and fame for George Bernard Shaw. By this time, Shaw was already an established literary figure, but his fame continued to grow due to his outspoken views and prolific output. Shaw’s works often challenged societal norms and provoked thought, earning him both admiration and criticism.

During this decade, Shaw’s political views became increasingly controversial. He expressed admiration for both Mussolini and Stalin, which drew significant attention and criticism. Despite this, Shaw’s reputation as a leading dramatist remained intact. His plays continued to be performed widely, and his influence on theatre and literature was profound.

William Morris items at Shaw's Corner

Shaw’s Corner houses several items that reflect Shaw’s admiration for William Morris and the Arts and Crafts movement. Among these are Morris’s distinctive textiles and wallpapers, which adorn various rooms in the house. These items not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of Shaw’s Corner but also serve as a testament to the enduring friendship and shared ideals between Shaw and Morris.

The importance of protecting listed buildings

Many listed buildings, like Shaw’s Corner, tell the story of a time gone by, preserving the architectural and cultural heritage of our past. These buildings are invaluable, offering insights into historical craftsmanship, design, and the lives of those who inhabited them. Protecting these treasures is crucial, and specialist listed property insurance plays a vital role in ensuring their preservation. This type of insurance provides tailored coverage that addresses the unique needs and challenges associated with maintaining and restoring listed properties, safeguarding them for future generations.

Preserving listed homes for future generations

Shaw’s Corner is a part of Britains history preserved for future generations.

When you own a listed home, the preservation of that property is down to you. One important way to keep your home protected is to ensure you have the right insurance cover.

At Abode, we are specialists in listed property insurance. If you would like to discuss your listed property insurance requirements, please call us on 01622 476 433.