Excavating Oatlands: unearthing a Tudor treasure

Elmbridge Museum is proud to present its latest display, ‘Excavating Oatlands’, now open at the Civic Centre in Esher.

The display shines a spotlight on the long-lost Oatlands Palace, originally built in 1537 by King Henry VIII for his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves. Although the palace was used by successive monarchs, it was ultimately demolished in 1652. Since then, the site has passed through the hands of several notable owners, leaving behind a rich but largely forgotten history.

Little was known about Oatlands Palace after its demolition - until the 1960s, when renewed local interest led to the formation of the Oatlands Palace Excavation Committee (OPEC). Between 1968 and 1973, and again in 1983, the committee conducted a series of archaeological digs that brought the palace’s past back to life.

The exhibition features a fascinating collection of artefacts uncovered during these excavations, including tiles, glass, clay pipes and pottery. Visitors can also explore archive documents, excavation tools, and trowels used by the archaeologists. Together, these items highlight the vital role of amateur archaeology in preserving local heritage and offer a rare glimpse into life at the palace during the Tudor era.

‘Excavating Oatlands’ introduces visitors to Tudor life in Weybridge, with a special focus on the fashions and styles popular at the time the palace was built.

Exhibition Opening Hours:

Monday to Thursday: 8:45am to 5pm
Friday: 8:45am to 4:30pm
Saturday and Sunday: closed

Find out more information about Oatlands Palace by exploring the online exhibition.