The Ancient High House
Built in around 1595 for the Dorrington family who were wealthy wool merchants, the ornate timber framed building is reputed to be the largest surviving timber framed town house in England from the Tudor period and one of the finest Tudor buildings in the country.
King Charles 1 stayed at the High House in 1642 when he, and Prince Rupert were en route to Shrewsbury.
The house retains an extensive collection of period furniture and architectural features.
It is also the home of the Staffordshire Yeomanry Museum and has a programme of historic and art exhibitions.
In 1986 the house opened by Stafford Borough Council as a museum and now provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who have lived there over the centuries.
There is a school and group tour programme and occasional themed tours, talks and workshops to support our history exhibitions.
Throughout the year there is an exciting range of events, activities and workshops that bring added colour and bustle to the rooms.
The ground floor shop offers a wide range of gifts, souvenirs, traditional toys and local crafts, with an extensive range of local history books.
With hands on activities, children's games and quizzes there is something for all the family.
The Ancient High House is located in the town centre on Greengate Street, Stafford, ST16 2JA
Built in around 1595 for the Dorrington family who were wealthy wool merchants, the ornate timber framed building is reputed to be the largest surviving timber framed town house in England from the Tudor period and one of the finest Tudor buildings in the country.
King Charles 1 stayed at the High House in 1642 when he, and Prince Rupert were en route to Shrewsbury.
The house retains an extensive collection of period furniture and architectural features.
It is also the home of the Staffordshire Yeomanry Museum and has a programme of historic and art exhibitions.
In 1986 the house opened by Stafford Borough Council as a museum and now provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who have lived there over the centuries.
- Visit the Civil War Room where King Charles 1st and Prince Rupert stayed during their brief visit to the town.
- The Stuart Bedroom with its magnificent four poster bed.
- Admire the elegant splendour of the Wallpaper Room with its Georgian displays.
- Visit Mr Marson and his fascinating Edwardian Shop.
- Observe the grand comfort of the Victorian Room.
- The Castle Room with its interesting display explaining the method of construction and the materials used to build the High House.
- The attic floor is home to the Staffordshire Yeomanry Regiment Museum, founded in 1794. A local volunteer force which saw active service for over 200 years. The extensive range of items on display reflects their illustrious and distinguished history.
There is a school and group tour programme and occasional themed tours, talks and workshops to support our history exhibitions.
Throughout the year there is an exciting range of events, activities and workshops that bring added colour and bustle to the rooms.
The ground floor shop offers a wide range of gifts, souvenirs, traditional toys and local crafts, with an extensive range of local history books.
With hands on activities, children's games and quizzes there is something for all the family.
The Ancient High House is located in the town centre on Greengate Street, Stafford, ST16 2JA
