Anne Hathaway’s Cottage to open throughout year

The cottage usually closes for winter between November and January

The former home of Shakespeare's wife will not shut for the winter season and will also be open throughout 2025.

Anne Hathaway's Cottage in Shottery usually shuts for the winter season between 4 November and 10 February.

However, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, which manages the property, has extended its opening hours following feedback from visitors.

It confirmed the decision on Monday.

Rachael North, director of museum and public programmes at the Trust, said: "We’re excited to welcome visitors as the seasons change at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.

"Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful gardens and orchards as well as the intimate rooms and spaces inside the cottage.

"We’ve got some exciting plans coming together for Christmas and beyond, and I know the team can’t wait to share them."

The extended opening times comes after a successful early reopening of the property in February.

Several new jobs have also been created to support the move, said the Trust.

Ms North said it would help the Trust "continue to celebrate the legacy and impact of Anne on the Shakespeare story with more people".

The cottage is believed to be one of the places Hathaway and Shakespeare met during their courtship.