Aston Hall

Completed in 1635, Aston Hall is a period residence to be appreciated. Stroll around the building and admire the Jacobean architecture, examine relics of local history and enjoy the fine interior decor which dates from the 1600s through to the 1800s. The mansion was built for Sir Thomas Holte and his family, who lived here for nearly two centuries from its completion until 1817.Begin your visit by exploring the mansion’s many rooms, containing artefacts from the early days of the house. Paintings and other art pieces are on show in the Long Gallery and the Great Chamber. This latter room has hosted royalty, notably King Charles I. As you continue your visit, keep a look-out for the hole in a staircase, which was made by a cannonball when the mansion was under siege.Head across the courtyard to the Stables Range, and explore the Astonish Gallery within. Here you can learn about the history of Aston, with a particular emphasis on industrial growth, sporting achievements, and the development of the community in this area. The exhibit is highly interactive, and young people can construct a model town, or gambol around in costumes from centuries gone by.Afterwards, enjoy a picnic in the meticulous gardens, which also contain a playground where children can tire themselves out! Cold and hot drinks, ice creams and other refreshments are also available from the café on site.A busy calendar of family events takes place all year round, from writing and poetry workshops to Irish dancing and craft activities. On Aston Heritage Day, the nearby football ground of Aston Villa Football Club is opened up too. You can keep up to date with what’s going on and plan your visit online at the Aston Hall section of the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (BMAG) website.Aston Hall is just 10 minutes’ drive from central Birmingham, and you can also take a train to Aston or Witton (West Midlands) both of these stations are a 15-minute walk from the mansion. A number of buses also stop at the attraction.The hall is closed on Mondays. It is free to enter the grounds, but there is an admission fee to enter Aston Hall – except on the first Sunday of each month, when it’s free of charge.