Boscobel House is famous as the place where the future Charles II sheltered for two nights in 1651 after the disasterous Battle of Worcester.
The oldest part of this modest timber-framed house is the two-storey north range which dates from the 16th century.
In about 1630 a taller wing was added to the south, at this time the building was used as a woodland lodge ( the 'bosco bello' from which the house takes its name).
By the mid-17th century the house had passed to the Fitzherbert family who lived in Derbyshire and they leased the house to William Penderel and his wife, and it was this couple who shielded the future King from capture by the Roundheads.
The King hid in the Royal Oak tree and slept in a tiny 'scared hole' and the couple then guided him to Mosely Hall in Staffordshire, his next destination.
Following this brief moment of glory Boscobel remained a farmhouse until the property was purchased by Walter Evans in 1812.
Inspired by the romantic story he attempted to re-create the building in memory of Charles II's escape from capture, adding dark oak panelling, 'period' pieces and a formal garden.
In 1918 the property was bought by Lord Bradford of Weston Park. When the house was acquired by the Ministry of Works in 1954 it had been restored to its 19th century state but denuded of its 19th century furnishings.
Today Boscobel House is in the care of English Heritage and it has been restored and furnished in the Victorian period.
The house is approached via the former courtyard and through the 19th century brick-built farmhouse.
The interior of the original timber-framed building was stuccoed in the 18th century and no wooden beams are visible. The 16th century wing houses a display of dairy equipment and there is a 1630 extension where Charles II stayed. This originally had only one room on each floor.
The polygonal projection probably contained a staircase and the tall chimney stack from this extension is a prominent feature. The internal decoration gives an idea of how the past was romantically viewed in the 19th century. There are several hiding places which may or may not have been used by the King.
Outside the formal garden, with its raised viewing platform, has been carefully restored.
A descendant of the Royal Oak, that concealed the fugitive Charles II from Cronwell's troops, can still be seen in fields close to the house. The farmyard and smithy are also open to the public.
2008: 21 Mar-31 Oct 10:00-17:00 Wed-Sun & Bank Hols. Last entry 1 hr before close.
Tel: 01902 850244 Boscobel House Website
