The house was originally known as Hewlands Farm, not a cottage, and spanned over 90 acres of land.
The building's timber frame is constructed from local Warwickshire oak, which has survived since the late 1400s.
The famous Hathaway bed, a significant family heirloom, is a 'late' marriage bed carved with initials of Hathaway family members.
The cottage gardens were redesigned in the 20th century to feature a willow tunnel and traditional Tudor-style herbaceous borders.
The house was purchased by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust in 1892, making it the first property the trust ever acquired.
The 'courting settle' located near the fireplace is a traditional wooden bench long associated with local courting legends involving Shakespeare and Anne.
Anne Hathaway's Cottage is a 12-room farmhouse that served as the family home of William Shakespeare's wife. The structure dates back to the 15th century and remains situated in its original rural setting in the village of Shottery. It features a thatched roof constructed from wheat straw, representing traditional English vernacular architecture of the Tudor period. Visitors can explore the preserved interior, which contains furniture original to the Hathaway family, including the iconic four-poster carved bed. The property includes nine acres of land featuring traditional cottage gardens and an orchard. It is currently managed by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, which oversees the site's ongoing conservation efforts. The house remained in the Hathaway family line for thirteen generations until it was purchased by the trust in the 19th century.
The front view of the cottage from the garden path, capturing the thatched roof against the flower beds.
Wear comfortable, flat walking shoes to navigate the original uneven stone floors and garden paths.
Book your visit online in advance to secure entry during peak summer weekends.
Combine your visit with other Shakespeare Birthplace Trust properties in town for a comprehensive historical perspective.
Do not attempt to walk from the town center during heavy rain, as the route is primarily exposed rural pathway.
Operating schedules often change between summer and winter seasons; check the official trust website for seasonal closures.
Avoid touching the historic furniture or textiles; remain on marked pathways in the garden to protect the plants.
