The Cromwell Bed




The 'Cromwell Bed' at Astley Hall, said to be where Oliver Cromwell slept after the Battle of Preston in 1648. Oliver Cromwell is reported to have slept off the stress of the Battle of Preston in this rather lovely bed, at Astley Hall in Chorley in 1648, which is now listed at grade I. Apparently Cromwell was so rested from his night of relaxation, he left his boots behind when he got up in the morning! Astley Hall, Astley Park, Chorley, Lancashire. English Heritage.
Though its exact origins are unknown, it’s thought that the four-poster bed originated in Austria before migrating to England, where it grew in popularity; the first records and descriptions of four-poster beds date to the late 14th or early 15thcenturies. The style began simply: prior to the four-poster version, beds were often no more than a hard board covered in fur or quilts. With this in mind, it’s easy to see why the four-poster bed became the most coveted of luxuries.
Canopies were first added to beds in the 13th century, with an upper area, also known as a tester, suspended from the ceiling. Gradually, the canopy came to be supplemented by side curtains. Supported by beams built into the bed frame itself, and voilà – the four-poster bed was born.




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