Explore 800 years of history through three Grade I and II listed buildings in the heart of Romsey, featuring medieval King John's House, Tudor Cottage, and a Victorian home.

King John's House and Museum offers families a compelling journey through Romsey's rich heritage across three distinctive historic buildings. The centrepiece is King John's House, a Grade I listed medieval structure believed to have once formed part of Romsey Abbey and named after King John of Magna Carta fame. Visitors can also explore Tudor Cottage, a charming Grade II listed timber-framed building that showcases Tudor architecture, and 13 Church Street, a Victorian home that once housed the Moody family's gunshop business. The venue features beautifully maintained historic gardens where visitors can take guided garden tours and discover how the gardens have evolved through time. The on-site Cafe at King John's House serves delicious homemade cakes, loose leaf teas, and coffee, making it an ideal spot for families to relax during their visit. The museum regularly hosts family-friendly events including Medieval Days and Garden Family Days, providing interactive experiences for children and adults alike. Currently undergoing restoration following fire damage in February 2025, King John's House represents a living piece of Romsey's history. The venue is pushchair-friendly and welcomes group visits and school parties, making it suitable for families with young children, history enthusiasts, and educational groups seeking to connect with local heritage.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

A

Alex Kennedy

2 years ago

During our visit to Romsey, we wanted a place to drink a cup of tea. We saw a sign about this place and then we were told politely that they were closing soon. She was friendly when she conveyed the information. This was a bit disappointing because the interior of the building was lovely. We shall definitely visit the tea room again when we are in Romsey.

K

Karen Evans

3 years ago

Absolutely brilliant !! As a history buff the story we were told during the guided tour was great. Thank you Mark for really bringing it to life. The cheese scone with pickle was super tasty and the garden a total joy. I have read the reviews from earlier this year and I say boo to the guy that marked it down for only filter coffee, because it was excellent filter coffee and it you want something poncy go and spend a fiver at Costa. This is local history at its best and well done to the Trust for looking after it so well.

S

Suzi Stardust

4 years ago

We only went in King John’s garden. The garden is beautiful. Lovely example of a traditional English country garden. Lovely grapevines, pear trees growing up the walls. Little places to sit down and relax in the garden. A great bee hotel.

T

Tom (Bozz)

5 years ago

A lovely small house, dating from the period shortly after King John's work. There is a nice garden, with a cafe. Inside, they had a bit of an art exhibit upstairs, whilst downstairs had some details about the building.

V

Vanessa Barlow

6 years ago

Beautiful place to spend the afternoon. Beautiful garden, wonderful tea room and interesting museum! The people that work here are all so nice and helpful and the atmosphere is so relaxing, a real little oasis.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026