Aston Hall, one of Birmingham’s most iconic buildings, has today opened to the public for the first time in over a year.
Staff and volunteers have been working hard behind the scenes to get the magnificent mansion house, whose history spans 400 years, ready to open.
Work has continued at Aston Hall during the pandemic and visitors will be able to see the results of some of the labour that has taken place. The Grade I listed house has opened its doors with new displays that explore the intriguing lives of its residents and its vibrant history, while also putting the spotlight on highlights from Birmingham’s art collection, including paintings by Gainsborough, Romney and Lely. The opening also coincides with the completion of a 10-year project restoring exquisite 17th century embroideries from the King Charles Chamber.
Kimberley Biddle, Museum Team Manager, Aston Hall says:
“This is such a big moment that we’ve all been looking forward to for so long. Staff and volunteers have been working hard behind the scenes installing new displays, polishing floors and pruning the garden to get everything ready and looking its absolute best. Over the past year and more we have looked at new ways to retell, reimagine and redisplay the four centuries of Aston Hall’s history and its many joys. We can now proudly say, Aston Hall is open for everyone!”
Aston Hall is a perennial favourite among locals and tourists – its breath-taking Long Gallery and battle scars of the Civil Wars make it one of Britain’s finest treasures. The new displays at Aston Hall focus on the key players and periods of history illustrating enthralling stories of family rifts, royal visits and pitched battles. There are over 30 rooms to explore and the surrounding parkland, including the elegant Lady Holte’s Garden, beckons visitors to take a stroll. A new family trail and a new menu at the Stable Yard Café – featuring tasty, hot lunches and an ‘Astonishing Afternoon Tea’ – is also now on offer.
Aston Hall is open Wednesday – Sunday. The Grounds and Stable Yard Café are open from 11am – 4pm and the Hall is open from 12noon – 4pm. Tickets must be pre-booked in advance at: https://www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/aston