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The Ancient High House: England’s Largest Tudor Timber-Framed Townhouse

Step back in time at England’s largest Tudor timber-framed townhouse, rich with history, period rooms, and military heritage in the heart of Stafford.

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The Ancient High House in Stafford is England’s largest surviving timber-framed townhouse, built in 1595 for the wealthy Dorrington family. This magnificent Elizabethan building offers visitors a vivid journey through history, featuring period rooms from Tudor to Victorian times, a Civil War room commemorating King Charles I’s stay, and the Staffordshire Yeomanry Museum. With free admission, changing exhibitions, and family-friendly activities, it is a captivating heritage site in the heart of Stafford.

A brief summary to The Ancient High House

  • 48 Greengate St, Stafford, ST16 2JA, GB
  • +441785619131
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Civil War Room to learn about King Charles I’s stay and Stafford’s role in the English Civil War.
  • Explore the Staffordshire Yeomanry Museum on the attic floor for a fascinating military history experience.
  • Enjoy the free admission and take advantage of interactive activities and children’s quizzes for a family-friendly visit.
  • Check the schedule for special exhibitions and workshops that bring history to life with hands-on experiences.
  • Be prepared for limited accessibility due to steep stairs; contact staff in advance if you require assistance.
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Getting There

  • Train and Bus

    From Stafford railway station, take a local bus or taxi for a 10-15 minute journey to Greengate Street where The Ancient High House is located. Buses run frequently during the day with tickets costing around £2-£4.

  • Car

    Driving to The Ancient High House is convenient with several public car parks within a 5-10 minute walk. Parking fees range from £1.50 to £3.50 per hour. Note that the town centre can be busy during peak times.

  • Walking

    If staying in central Stafford, The Ancient High House is accessible on foot within 10-20 minutes from most central hotels. The route is mostly flat but involves some cobbled streets.

The Ancient High House location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Discover more about The Ancient High House

A Majestic Elizabethan Landmark Rooted in History

Constructed in 1595 by the prosperous Dorrington family, The Ancient High House stands proudly on Greengate Street as the largest surviving timber-framed townhouse in England. Crafted from local oak, reputedly sourced from nearby Doxey Wood, the building is a stunning example of Tudor and Elizabethan architecture. Its imposing timber frame and multiple windows once dominated Stafford’s skyline, symbolizing the wealth and status of its original owners. The house’s historical significance is further enriched by its role during the English Civil War, when King Charles I stayed here in 1643, using it as his temporary headquarters while planning military campaigns.

Immersive Period Rooms and Rich Collections

Visitors can explore a series of meticulously restored rooms that showcase domestic life across centuries. The Tudor rooms evoke the atmosphere of the late 16th century, while the Georgian Wallpaper Room dazzles with elegant décor. The Stuart Bedroom features a magnificent four-poster bed, and the Edwardian Shop room offers a glimpse into early 20th-century commerce. The Victorian Room reflects the grand comfort of the 19th century. Throughout these spaces, authentic period furniture and architectural details bring history to life, allowing guests to imagine the lives of the house’s former inhabitants.

Commemorating Stafford’s Military Heritage

The attic houses the Staffordshire Yeomanry Museum, dedicated to the local volunteer cavalry regiment founded in 1794. This collection spans over two centuries of distinguished service, displaying uniforms, medals, and artefacts that celebrate the regiment’s history. Additionally, the Civil War Room highlights the house’s strategic importance during the 1640s, featuring documents and exhibits related to King Charles I’s stay and the town’s turbulent role in the conflict.

A Living Museum for All Ages

Since opening as a museum in 1986, The Ancient High House has offered an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Interactive activities, children’s games, and quizzes complement the historical displays. The house hosts a dynamic program of exhibitions by regional artists and themed events throughout the year, including historical reenactments and workshops such as calligraphy and coin minting. Educational tours tailored to school curriculums provide immersive learning opportunities about monarchy, the Tudors, and the Civil War.

Community Efforts and Preservation

The building’s preservation owes much to local community efforts during the 20th century, when the house faced potential demolition due to structural concerns. Fundraising initiatives, including concerts by local bands, helped save this historic treasure. Today, it remains a cherished heritage site managed by Stafford Borough Council, welcoming visitors free of charge and offering a small gift shop featuring local crafts and history books.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

While the house’s historic nature means it has steep stairs and uneven floors, staff are attentive and willing to assist visitors with mobility challenges. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm, with free entry. Located centrally on Greengate Street, it is surrounded by cafes and other amenities, making it an ideal cultural stop in Stafford.

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