Daphne was born in 1907, grand-daughter of the brilliant artist and writer George du Maurier, daughter of Gerald, the most famous Actor Manager of his day, she came from a creative and successful family.

She began writing short stories in 1928, and in 1931 her first novel, 'The Loving Spirit' was published. It received rave reviews and further books followed. Then came her most famous three novels, 'Jamaica Inn', 'Frenchman's Creek' and Rebecca'. Each novel being inspired by her love of Cornwall, where she lived and wrote.

These pages were first set up in 1996 for all fans of Daphne du Maurier around the world - now attracting around 50,000 visits every month. If you wish to be kept informed of the latest news and events associated with her work, you are invited to sign up as a Member - its free and you will have privileged access to this site.

If you have any comments or enquiries, members may use the Guest Book to post messages

Exactly twenty years ago Daphne du Maurier died at the age of eighty-two. By an eerie coincidence which would have appealed to her wicked sense of humour, Laurence Olivier also died twenty years ago at the age of eighty-two. Between them they ensured that, through a best-selling novel and a blockbusting film, the story of the haunting and infuriating Rebecca de Winter gripped generations of readers and cinema-goers.

Ten years ago Rebecca was the only book by Daphne du Maurier still in print, but she is now enjoying a long overdue renaissance and is receiving the attention she deserves.

The Bradfordians Dramatic Society is contributing to that renaissance and marking the anniversary of the author's death with its new production of the stage version of what will always be Daphne du Maurier's most popular and enduring work.

From 24th to 27th June the society will be presenting this masterpiece in the grounds of Monkton Farleigh Manor, between Bath and Bradford-on-Avon, a house which is surely a close relation of the legendary Manderley and will exercise its own fascination as it towers imposingly behind the actors.

Performances begin at 7:30 p.m., but why not enjoy the captivating atmosphere for longer by bringing your own pre-show picnic at 6:00, and remember - Bradfordians' outdoor performances always have the audience under cover and not exposed to the elements.

With or without a picnic, don't fail to surrender to the mysterious thrill of the eternally fascinating Rebecca!

Visit www.bradfordians.co.uk for online ticket bookings and for further information.

Spring Newsletter - we have just distributed one of our (very) occasional newsletters to our membership database. If you failed to get your copy, you may view it <HERE>.

Films & Videos - in case you have missed it, we have been accumulating a number of films and videos on this site, which will be of interest. The content is freely available via YouTube and include the entire 1940 film "Rebecca", directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starring Laurence Olivier and Joan Fontaine.

Click HERE

Two films have now been remastered on DVD. They are:

- a rare opportunity to see Dame Daphne in her home in Cornwall. She talks to Cliff Michelmore on a wide range of subjects about her writing and work.
Running time 38½ minutes.

- written by Daphne du Maurier, narrated by Sir Michael Redgrave and directed by Christian Browning.
Running time 40 minutes.

They are both available at the Daphne du Maurier Literary centre in Fowey at £12.00 each.
Telephone +44 (0)1726 833616 / 833619