Shandy Hall

Shandy Hall is a medieval house in Coxwold with timber framing, brick facing, and two gabled cross wings, with rooms displaying original wall paintings. The building stands within extensive formal gardens spanning two acres and planted with diverse rose varieties.

The house became known when Reverend Laurence Sterne lived here from 1760 to 1768 and wrote his famous novel 'Tristram Shandy' within these walls. It retained importance for its place in English literary history.

The house holds the world's largest collection of Sterne materials, including original manuscripts, personal letters, illustrations, prints, and period paintings.

You can explore the preserved rooms, including Sterne's study and medieval wall paintings hidden behind wood paneling. Allow time to walk through the gardens, as they cover two acres and reward leisurely wandering.

The building serves as both a museum and an inhabited residence, creating an unusual blend of visitor access and private living space. This dual use is rare in preserved medieval houses.

Location: Coxwold

Inception: 1968

Address: Coxwold, York, YO61 4AD

Website: https://laurencesternetrust.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 54.18860,-1.18750

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:02