The chequered past of the Oak House at 107 High Street typifies the town's many historical changes. It was first recorded as a 'private homestead' in 1523. By the end of the 16th century it was the Oak tavern, but renamed the Royal Oak in 1660 to the mark the restoration of King Charles II. Four years later it was a 'house of correction for vagabonds and miscreants', before becoming an ordinary jail. In 1838 it again became a beer-house and then, once more, a private house. It is on the corner of the quaintly-named Cherry Bounce, recalling the time when the district had cherry orchards.
Author: P Brodrick