Ancient High House
The Ancient High House is one of the finest Tudor buildings in the country which once dominated the skyline of Stafford.
Built in around 1595 for the wealthy Dorrington family, the ornate timber framed building is reputed to be the largest surviving timber framed town house in England from the Tudor period.
In 1986 the house opened as a museum and now provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who have lived there over the centuries.
An exciting programme of exhibitions by regional artists takes place in two gallery spaces and a changing history exhibition gives visitors the opportunity to view a range of artefacts not generally on public display.
There is a school and group tour programme and occasional themed tours, talks and workshops to support our history exhibitions. Throughout the year we have an exciting range of events, activities and workshops that bring added colour and bustle to the rooms.
Our ground floor shop offers a wide range of gifts, souvenirs, traditional toys and local crafts. We also stock an extensive range of local history books.
With hands on activities, children’s games and quizzes there is something for all the family.
Location
The Ancient High House is located on Greengate Street, Stafford, ST16 2LA
Opening hours and contact details
Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10.00am – 4.00pm
Free admission but donations are kindly accepted.
Call us: 01785 619131
Email us: info@historicstafford.co.uk
We host a number of varied events throughout the year including art exhibitions, curated historical exhibitions and costumed family events for Christmas and Halloween. We also offer workshops where you can try your hand at learning a new skill with qualified instructors, both for adults and children. There is always something new to see.
We offer tours that cater to KS 1/2/3 designed to fit the requirements of the National Curriculum. Some of the tours that the Ancient High House regularly delivers include our Tudor Tour, Time-walk Tour, Monarchy Tour and Great Fire of London Tour, all designed to keep your pupils engaged throughout the day with additional activities to enhance their experience. Each group has its own designated Heritage guide for the entire day who will do their utmost to ensure you have a fantastic and memorable visit.
We offer a bespoke service to anyone looking to bring a group of people to the Ancient High House. Please send an email addressed to our Tour Coordinator via the email below with your ideas and we can do the rest ensuring you have a memorable visit.
Email: info@historicstafford.co.uk
Accessibility
Physical Access:
Due to the age of the building, the only way to access the site and its floors are via the central staircase.
Visual Access:
Many of the displays in the Ancient High House have a QR code next to certain items which link to a YouTube video for an audio description. We are currently in the process of expanding these throughout the building.
Guides are always willing to give any assistance possible. Please phone 01785 619131 for more information, or email us on info@historicstafford.co.uk
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The staff were experts in the history of the house and incredibly friendly. A must-visit if you're in the area.
