In the days of slow travelling, King Charles I stopped on his way from London to Oxford in 1632, and again in 1642 with Prince Rupert, during the English Civil War. His painted Royal Coat of Arms is preserved over the fireplace in room 108.

Redolent of history, our ancient walls originally housed the craftsmen who built the parish church of St Mary the Virgin in the mid-16th century. The exposed beams in the Quarterdeck Bar date from this era. An earlier, 14th-century Chantry House, home of the chantry priests and later a school, can be seen in the courtyard forming part of the west wing.

According to a historic lease, the property became a hotel in 1732, known from then as The Red Lion. The brick façade was added in Georgian times and in 1889 a central hall was created, where once an archway had led to the courtyard.

A number of our guestrooms are named after notable guests who stayed in these actual rooms. In the days of slow travelling, King Charles I stopped on his way from London to Oxford in 1632, and again in 1642 with Prince Rupert, during the English Civil War. His painted Royal Coat of Arms is preserved over the fireplace in room 108.

The Red Lion was also the regular resting place of the 1st Duke of Marlborough on his way from Blenheim Palace to London. He had room 109 furnished with his own pieces, which remained there until 1849, well over 100 years after his death.

Thursday 14 September: 1200-1600

No booking required

Max 10 people per tour/session. 20 minutes 

Contact for the day: Reception Team – 01491 572161