Moseley Old Hall

Elizabethan house which played a pivotal role in English history.

Cromwell's victory at the Battle of Worcester in 1651 ended the Civil War and left Charles II fleeing the country with a price upon his head. After a long and lonely trek through the night, the King reached the outskirts of Wolverhampton at daybreak and gratefully accepted sanctuary from Thomas Whitgreave, a loyal Royalist and the owner of Moseley Old Hall.

In 1651 Moseley Old Hall was a storybook half-timbered house set in dense woodland, a long way from the bustle and clamour of the city. Inside, the panelled walls were specifically designed with secret enclosures suitable for hiding catholic priests. Now one of these cramped rooms fulfilled a higher calling, to conceal a king.

Charles II remained at Moseley Old Hall for two days, during which time his escape route into France was planned. Visitors today can see where he slept and learn all about his dramatic escapades through a special exhibition in the barn. Unfortunately, the house was clad in red brick some time ago and this, together with the encroaching Wolverhampton suburbs, has given Moseley Old Hall a very altered exterior. However, the inside of the hall retains a homely feel with exposed beams, portraits and dark wood. The garden has been carefully re-created in 17th century style and boasts an arbour and a pretty nut walk.

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