Moseley Old Hall: The Elizabethan Refuge of King Charles II
Discover the Elizabethan farmhouse where King Charles II hid, surrounded by 17th-century gardens and rich history near Wolverhampton.
Moseley Old Hall, a Grade II* listed Elizabethan farmhouse near Wolverhampton, is famed for sheltering King Charles II during his 1651 escape after the Battle of Worcester. This timber-framed historic house offers immersive guided tours revealing 17th-century life, including the king’s bed and secret priest hole. Its beautifully restored 17th-century gardens feature a knot garden, orchard, and woodland play areas, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to National Trust - Moseley Old Hall
- Moseley Old Hall Ln, Wolverhampton, Featherstone, WV10 7HY, GB
- +441902782808
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book a guided tour to fully experience the history and hear fascinating stories from knowledgeable volunteers.
- Visit the knot garden and climb to the attic for the best views of the intricate garden design.
- Allow time to explore the woodland play areas and tree hide, ideal for families with children.
- Check opening times in advance, especially in winter months when the Hall may have limited access.
- Enjoy homemade cakes and light lunches in the tearoom, a pleasant spot to relax after your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from central Wolverhampton takes approximately 20-30 minutes via main roads. Parking is available on site, including blue badge spaces. The access lane is single track, so proceed cautiously. No parking fees apply.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Wolverhampton city center to Featherstone, with a stop within a 15-minute walk of Moseley Old Hall. Service frequency varies; check timetables in advance. A standard single fare costs around £3-£5.
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Walking
For nearby residents or visitors staying in Featherstone, walking to Moseley Old Hall is possible via rural lanes and footpaths. Expect uneven terrain and a walk of 30-45 minutes depending on starting point. Not suitable for wheelchair users.
National Trust - Moseley Old Hall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about National Trust - Moseley Old Hall
A Sanctuary for a King: Moseley Old Hall's Historic Legacy
Moseley Old Hall holds a unique place in British history as the secret refuge of King Charles II following his defeat at the Battle of Worcester in 1651. This timber-framed Elizabethan farmhouse, nestled near Wolverhampton, was owned by Thomas Whitgreave, known as ‘the Preserver’ for his courageous role in sheltering the fugitive monarch. Visitors enter through the very door used by Charles II and can see the original four-poster bed where the king rested fully dressed. The house also contains a priest hole and a small chapel attic, testaments to the perilous times for Catholics during the 17th century.Architectural Charm and Period Details
Constructed with a timber framework of oak beams and wattle-and-daub panels, Moseley Old Hall showcases authentic Elizabethan architecture. The chimneys, built in brick, exhibit fine craftsmanship, visible to visitors as they explore the house. Inside, the large refectory dining table, around 400 years old, reflects the practical domestic arrangements of the era. The house’s low light levels and uneven floors add to the historic atmosphere, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience life as it was centuries ago.Gardens That Echo the 17th Century
Surrounding the Hall are meticulously maintained gardens designed in the 17th-century style. The walled garden features period-appropriate plants, a herb garden, topiary, and a heritage fruit orchard. The striking knot garden, constructed by the National Trust in 1962 following a 17th-century design, offers a colorful and intricate landscape visible from the attic. Beyond the gardens, King’s Walk Woods provide woodland play areas, including a three-storey tree hide and den-building spots, perfect for families and children seeking adventure in nature.Engaging Visitor Experience and Interpretation
Moseley Old Hall offers guided tours led by knowledgeable volunteers who bring the 17th century to life with stories and demonstrations. Visitors learn intriguing facts such as the origins of phrases like ‘Chairman of the Board’ and why pastry cases were called ‘coffins.’ The hall’s displays include a letter from King Charles II to Jane Lane, who helped him escape, deepening the connection to this dramatic historical episode. The tea room provides homemade cakes and light lunches in a comfortable setting, complementing the visit.Access and Amenities for a Comfortable Visit
The Hall is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with last entry 30 minutes before closing. Facilities include a visitor reception, bookshop, tearoom, picnic area, and accessible parking with a blue badge scheme. While the top floors and tea room are accessed by stairs, the site offers a hearing loop and welcomes families with children and pets in the outdoor areas. The single-track lane access adds to the secluded charm of this hidden gem.Preserving a National Treasure
Managed by the National Trust, Moseley Old Hall is protected as a site of special architectural and historic interest. Its preservation allows visitors to experience an authentic slice of 17th-century English life and the remarkable story of a king’s flight to safety. The combination of historic architecture, evocative gardens, and immersive interpretation makes Moseley Old Hall a captivating destination for cultural heritage and nature lovers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
