Few people are more important to Birmingham than Joseph Chamberlain. The man “who made the weather”, according to Winston Churchill, left his mark all over the city—from the Old Joe clock tower and the free Art Gallery and Museum to Birmingham’s notably great-tasting tap water.
He’s also responsible for commissioning one of Birmingham’s greatest buildings—the Grade II* listed Highbury Hall, named after the London area where he grew up. Located on the borders of Moseley, Kings Heath and Stirchley, the terracotta house was built by the architect John Henry Chamberlain (no relation) in 1879.
Since then, it has had many lives: First as Joseph Chamberlain’s home, later as a hospital annex for disabled soldiers in WWI, and more recently, as a venue for weddings, conferences and funerals. The grounds of the hall also now form Highbury Park, which is open to the public all year round.
Highbury Hall Open Day
But you can enter the house on specific days throughout the year. Completely free, Highbury Hall Open Days are usually held on the first Sunday and Monday of each month (though this may change during holiday periods). You will also find free tours of the hall on these days, while special activities and events occur at other times.
Inside, the striking Victorian mansion is an imposing example of Venetian-Gothic architecture with intricate decorative features inspired by nature. But you can even step behind the scenes to explore the working life of the house, from servants’ quarters and kitchens to children’s bedrooms and old schoolrooms.
Once you’re done with the house, head outside into 33 hectares of beautifully designed gardens—created in the late 19th century by renowned landscape designer Edward Milner. Winding paths, terraced gardens and mature trees lead straight into the wonderful Highbury Park.
Highbury Hall & Park is located at 4 Yew Tree Road, Moseley, Birmingham, B13 8QG.
