Withypool is an ancient settlement, mentioned in the Doomsday Book, but with evidence of population since the Bronze Age.

At the end of the 14th Century, Geoffrey Chaucer - of Canterbury Tales fame - was in charge of the village as part of his duties as Forester of North Petherton Estate.

Since The Royal Oak Inn was built 300 years ago, it has attracted a variety of famous and infamous people. In 1866 R.D.Blackmore stayed at the Inn while writing his well-loved novel, 'Lorna Doone'; and during the 1930's the Inn was owned and run by Gwladys and Maxwell Knight, the spy-master and radio broadcaster, upon whom the character of 'M', James Bond's boss, was based.

In the week before D-Day, General Eisenhower came to Exmoor to review some of his troops, and took the opportunity to visit The Royal Oak Inn while taking a break from planning the invasion.

There are letters and photographs on the walls of the Inn relating to these and other famous guests.