
Boscobel House and the Royal Oak
Discover Boscobel House, where King Charles II famously hid in an oak tree after the Battle of Worcester in 1651. Explore history and charming grounds...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Boscobel House and the Royal Oak
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Boscobel House, where King Charles II famously hid in an oak tree after the Battle of Worcester in 1651. Explore history and charming grounds.
"A pleasant 4 hours spent exploring the history and countryside around Boscobel House."

🚶♀️ Walk to White Ladies Priory
Enjoy a scenic 20-minute walk to the priory ruins for lovely countryside views.
☕ Enjoy the Tearoom
Grab a coffee and scone; the cafe offers usual treats and friendly service.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Royal Oak Tree
Boscobel House Grounds
Stand beneath the legendary oak where King Charles II famously hid from Parliamentarian forces. A symbol of resilience and royal escape.

Boscobel House Interior
Main Lodge
Explore the 17th-century timber-framed lodge, imagining the king's clandestine stay and the ingenuity of his supporters.

White Ladies Priory Ruins
Approx. 1 mile walk from Boscobel House
A peaceful mile-long walk through the countryside leads to these atmospheric monastic ruins.

Heritage Farm Animals
Boscobel House Grounds
Meet the resident Ryeland and Shropshire sheep, adding a charming rural element to your historical visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for King Charles's Escape
Beyond the House: Exploring the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk to White Ladies Priory
Enjoy a scenic 20-minute walk to the priory ruins for lovely countryside views.
☕ Enjoy the Tearoom
Grab a coffee and scone; the cafe offers usual treats and friendly service.
🐑 Meet the Sheep
Don't miss the charming Ryeland and Shropshire sheep on the grounds!
🌳 Explore the Grounds
Allow time to wander beyond the house to the Royal Oak and gardens.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk to White Ladies Priory
Enjoy a scenic 20-minute walk to the priory ruins for lovely countryside views.
☕ Enjoy the Tearoom
Grab a coffee and scone; the cafe offers usual treats and friendly service.
🐑 Meet the Sheep
Don't miss the charming Ryeland and Shropshire sheep on the grounds!
🌳 Explore the Grounds
Allow time to wander beyond the house to the Royal Oak and gardens.
🐝 Beware of Wasps
Visitors have noted wasps can be present, especially during warmer months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Boscobel House to be a pleasant and historically significant site, particularly for its connection to King Charles II's escape. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are frequently praised, as are the charming grounds and the option to walk to White Ladies Priory. Some find the house itself to be small, and there are occasional mentions of limited cafe options or the presence of wasps.
"A good sized property in a (surprisingly) lovely area not too far outside of Wolverhampton... Easy access from the A5, it has a decent car park.
Some interesting history about King Charles  staying there for a couple of days, not exactly thrilling but I guess you had to be there... To be honest, they don't try to overload you with "facts" but there are quite a few information boards to read around the place. Everyone we met were friendly and enthusiastic about the attraction.
Small tearoom with all the usual offerings, prices what you expect, but the coffee was nice and the scones looked fresh.
Despite the weather not being the best, we had a walk down to the Priory, which took about 20 minutes, not a lot to see, but a decent walk over the fields looking over the Shropshire countryside.
In all, we spent a pleasant 4 hours there."
Brian Morrall
"Car parking is simple. Site is small. Cafe does not appear to have any choices for vegan on its very limited menu. Beware wasps! The imaginative candles for interactive interpretations in rooms was hit and miss. Lots of planned updates for the grounds."
Mary Foreman
"Lovely place full of history. Fab staff, very helpful. Cafe was great. We also walked down to the white ladies priory from here too."
Kat P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boscobel House is easily accessible from the A5 road. There is a decent car park on site. For those using public transport, it's advisable to check local bus routes as direct services might be limited.
Yes, there is a simple and convenient car park available for visitors at Boscobel House.
While Boscobel House is accessible by car, it's also a pleasant destination for a walk if you are in the surrounding Shropshire countryside.
Boscobel House is located not too far outside of Wolverhampton.
The surrounding countryside offers scenic routes for cyclists, and Boscobel House can be a lovely stop on a cycling tour of the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, and it's recommended to check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date information on ticket costs and any potential discounts.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season or for special events, can save you time and guarantee entry. Check the English Heritage website for their policy.
Opening hours can change seasonally. It's best to consult the official English Heritage website for Boscobel House for the most accurate and current opening times before your visit.
Information regarding accessibility for visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access and facilities, can typically be found on the English Heritage website. It's advisable to contact them directly for specific needs.
Boscobel House often hosts special events, particularly around historical anniversaries like Oak Apple Day. Keep an eye on the English Heritage website for event schedules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the 17th-century timber-framed lodge, learn about King Charles II's escape in 1651, see the famous Royal Oak tree, and visit the nearby White Ladies Priory ruins.
Most visitors spend around 2-4 hours at Boscobel House, allowing time to explore the house, grounds, and potentially walk to White Ladies Priory.
Boscobel House is generally dog-friendly, especially in the outdoor areas and grounds. However, it's always best to check the specific English Heritage policy regarding dogs inside buildings.
Boscobel House is famous for being the hiding place of King Charles II after his defeat at the Battle of Worcester in 1651. He famously hid in an oak tree on the grounds.
Knowledgeable and friendly staff are often on hand to share insights about the site's history. While formal guided tours might not always be scheduled, staff interactions can be very informative.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small tearoom at Boscobel House offering usual refreshments like coffee and scones.
The cafe typically offers standard tearoom fare, including coffee, tea, and scones. Some visitors have noted limited vegan options.
Picnicking is often permitted in designated areas on the grounds of English Heritage sites. It's a good idea to check their specific policy for Boscobel House.
The Royal Oak pub is located near the site, offering a traditional pub experience.
Prices at the cafe are generally what you would expect for a heritage attraction.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed at Boscobel House and its grounds. However, flash photography might be restricted inside the house to protect artifacts.
Capture the iconic Royal Oak tree, the charming timber-framed house, the peaceful White Ladies Priory ruins, and the picturesque Shropshire countryside.
Drone usage is typically restricted at English Heritage sites to ensure the safety and preservation of the property and to respect other visitors. Always check their specific drone policy.
The resident sheep are often happy to pose for photos, adding a delightful element to your visit.
Early morning or late afternoon light can offer beautiful, soft lighting for capturing the house and grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the walk to White Ladies Priory as a mini-adventure, and pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds. The interactive elements within the house, though sometimes hit-or-miss, can engage children's imaginations. Remember to bring suitable footwear for exploring the grounds and potentially muddy paths.
🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the grounds and the nearby White Ladies Priory ruins, which add further historical context to the area. The intimate scale of the house allows for a focused appreciation of its historical importance without feeling overwhelmed.
🌳 Nature Lovers & Walkers
The grounds themselves are pleasant for a wander, especially to see the Royal Oak tree and the heritage sheep. Visiting during spring or autumn offers ideal weather for outdoor exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Oak and King Charles II's Escape
The story of Charles II's time at Boscobel is one of ingenuity and loyalty. The house itself, a 17th-century timber-framed lodge, provided a temporary sanctuary. Visitors can still see the grounds where the original oak tree once stood, and a descendant tree now marks the spot. The narrative of the king's narrow escape is central to the visitor experience, bringing a pivotal moment of English history to life.
Exploring the Grounds: A Countryside Stroll
The grounds also feature the famous Royal Oak tree, a living monument to the king's escape. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the presence of heritage farm animals, including Ryeland and Shropshire sheep, adding a charming rural dimension to the visit. These elements combine to create a well-rounded experience that appeals to history buffs and nature lovers alike.
The Royal Oak Pub: A Historic Connection
This pub serves as a tangible link to the historical events that unfolded at Boscobel. While the pub itself is a separate entity from the heritage site, visiting it can enhance your understanding and appreciation of the historical significance of the 'Royal Oak' moniker.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit