Britain’s oldest bed still in use is at Berkeley Castle and is over 400 years old. Among the contenders for the title of Britain’s oldest bed are a number of antique four-poster beds. One of the most famous beds is the 400-year-old bed at Berkeley Castle that has been used by 15 generations of the same family since 1608. This bed proudly holds the title of oldest bed used by one family. The only family that uses it continuously. in the grounds of Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire.
Notably, the castle has been continuously occupied by the same family since the late 12th century. Experts in the history of furniture have dated the bedposts to the period 1560-1640. The presence of a coat of arms on the headboard links it to the Stuart monarchy, especially after 1603. Its appearance on a 1608 inventory further confirms its age.
Crafted from dark oak, the antique four-poster bed features an intricately carved headboard and square columns decorated with floral motifs typical of Jacobean furniture as well as carvings representing Henry Berkeley, 7th Baron Berkeley and his second wife, Jane. What sets this bed apart is its continued use by the same family and its precise age.
Notably, the castle has been continuously occupied by the same family since the late 12th century. Experts in the history of furniture have dated the bedposts to the period 1560-1640. The presence of a coat of arms on the headboard links it to the Stuart monarchy, especially after 1603. Its appearance on a 1608 inventory further confirms its age.
Crafted from dark oak, the antique four-poster bed features an intricately carved headboard and square columns decorated with floral motifs typical of Jacobean furniture as well as carvings representing Henry Berkeley, 7th Baron Berkeley and his second wife, Jane. What sets this bed apart is its continued use by the same family and its precise age.
Unsealed like many historic pieces of furniture, John Berkeley, 81, and his wife Georgina, 73, still sleep in a bed in the castle’s Great State Bedroom. The Berkeley family’s lineage can be traced back to the Norman Conquest, with deep roots in Berkeley Castle. This majestic fortress, overlooking the River Severn from its hilltop, is a silent witness to the family’s enduring legacy. Originally built as a motte-and-bailey structure in the 11th century, Berkeley Castle has been expanded and strengthened over time, witnessing ancient victories, trials and tales for centuries.
Berkeley Castle, one of the most iconic symbols of the Berkeley family’s enduring legacy, has the distinction of being one of the few castles in England to have been continuously inhabited by the same family for over 900 years. With its tall towers, deep dungeons and combination of grandeur and horror, visitors can explore its history, where even Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth I and Edward II have stayed or meet their fate. The castle was built in 1067 by William FitzOsbern as one of the March Castles to protect against Welsh invasions. It boasts various defensive features such as steps to stymie attackers, arrow slits, murder holes, large barred doors, slots for lattices and worn stones where guards once stood guard.
Throughout its vast history, Berkeley Castle has been witness to many dramatic events. One such event occurred in The Anarchy when Roger de Berkeley faced losing his fortune for not supporting the House of Plantagenet and Queen Matilda. The castle then passed to Robert Fitzharding in 1152, a prominent citizen of Bristol and staunch supporter of the Plantagenets, establishing a new Berkeley family that still owns the castle to this day. In another episode, in 1327, Edward II was dethroned by his wife Isabella of France and imprisoned in the castle; Rumor has it that he ended his life there.
In 1645, during the English Civil War, Parliamentary forces besieged Berkeley Castle and wrested control from the Royalist defenders. Throughout history, Berkeleyans have played important roles in shaping British history: advising monarchs and exerting political influence on a national scale. Figures such as Robert Fitzhending and Robert de Berkeley left a lasting mark on history through their actions and support for King Henry III during the Barons’ War.
Beyond politics and power, the Berkeley family fostered a legacy of art, literature, and architecture that endures to this day. By supporting artists and architects and promoting intellectual endeavor, they are guardians of creativity and innovation. However, perhaps their most lasting legacy lies in preserving traditions and heritage across generations. By protecting Berkeley Castle and its treasures over time, they ensure that their ancestral home remains a living testament to history.
Berkeley Castle is located in Gloucestershire, just west of the A38 via the B4066 with free on-site parking. If you liked this blog post, please follow Archaeological art and mysterious stories on Facebook for daily travel content and inspiration.
