The Hurst

The Hurst, Arvon’s third writing centre, is the former Shropshire home of the playwright John Osborne and was acquired by Arvon in 1998 with an Arts Council grant.

The works comprise alterations and refurbishment works to the Main House, the Clockhouse and Foyle Studio set in 30 acres in the Clun Valley. There is also a dovecote in the grounds. The buildings are all Grade II listed. The Clockhouse and the Foyle Studio have both been renovated and converted from former stables, the former to provide accommodation for course participants and tutors and the latter to provide workspace for the courses.

The top floor of the Main House was converted in 2002 to provide accommodation for course participants and tutors and parts of the ground and first floors provide living accommodation and office space for the Centre Directors. The majority of the Main House remains unconverted for Arvon’s use and is currently unoccupied.

After John Osborne’s death in 1994, Helen Osborne, John Osborne’s widow, lived there until her unexpected death in 2004, when it became available to Arvon.