Royal Oak, Historical oak tree at Boscobel House, England

The Royal Oak is a successor to the original oak that stood on the grounds of Boscobel House in the 17th century and is now protected by iron railings. The current tree grows in an open area near the main path through the garden and is visible from several sides.

Charles II hid in the branches of the original oak in 1651 while Parliamentary soldiers passed beneath after the Battle of Worcester. The original tree was later damaged so severely by souvenir hunters that it had to be replaced.

The name of this tree appears today on hundreds of pub signs across Britain, recalling how a monarch saved his life. The connection between the fleeing king and the tree shaped British pub culture into the present day.

The tree stands about 50 meters from the main building and is accessible via a short walk through the garden. Visitors can best view it in daylight when the sun lights the foliage.

Another oak sapling was planted by Prince Charles in 2001 nearby and extends the royal connection to this site. The young tree grows just a few steps from its famous predecessor.