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Elliott Brown Green open spaces
10 Feb 2021 - Elliott Brown
Gallery

Curtis Gardens, once the estate of Fox Hollies Hall

If you head up and down the Fox Hollies Road in Hall Green and Acocks Green, you might spot a green space with trees. This is Curtis Gardens. It opened in 1965, on the site where Fox Hollies Hall used to be (until it was demolished in 1937). Three tower blocks called Coppice House, Hollypiece House and Homemeadow House went up in the early 1960s on the site of the hall itself.

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Curtis Gardens, once the estate of Fox Hollies Hall





If you head up and down the Fox Hollies Road in Hall Green and Acocks Green, you might spot a green space with trees. This is Curtis Gardens. It opened in 1965, on the site where Fox Hollies Hall used to be (until it was demolished in 1937). Three tower blocks called Coppice House, Hollypiece House and Homemeadow House went up in the early 1960s on the site of the hall itself.


Curtis Gardens

This green space is located along the Fox Hollies Road between Hall Green and Acocks Green. Just north of York Road, and south of Olton Boulevard East. To the west is Pemerbley Road, where you will find Coppice House to the south, then Hollypiece House in the middle and Homemeadow House to the north.

Curits Gardens from the Fox Hollies Road, seen below during January 2010.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Fox Hollies Childrens Centre is to the south east of the site on the Fox Hollies Road, while Hall Green Little Theatre is to the north west.

Hall Green Little Theatre, seen below during February 2014.

dndimg alt="Hall Green Little Theatre" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hall Green Little Theatre (Feb 2014) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

There is a Play Area in Curtis Gardens, paths and many trees.

Curtis Gardens Play Area seen below during May 2020.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (May 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

From Fox Hollies Hall to Curtis Gardens

Historically the site of a farm, records goes back to 1275 when a farm called Atte Hollies was recorded of being on this site in Acocks Green, but it was later in Hall Green. The Fox family bought the farm in 1626 and it became known as Foxholleys.

By the time Fox Hollies Hall was owned by Zaccheus Walker, he had renamed and rebuilt his grand mansion into The Hollies. The Hall was rebuilt in Italianate style around 1870 by the architect Yeoville Thomason (who also did the Council House). Walker sold the estate to the City in 1925. Fox Hollies Hall was later demolished in 1937. During WW2 the grounds were used as allotments.

dndimg alt="Fox Hollies Hall" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Fox Hollies Hall 1900.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Fox Hollies Hall c. 1900. Public Domain. Taken from The Walker era

 

All that remained from Fox Hollies Hall was the original gateposts on Fox Hollies Road. Although one of them got knocked over by a Council vehicle and had to be rebuilt. New gates were installed in 2004 as well as a couple of benches.

The gates seen below during January 2010, a regular target for graffiti vandals. They have no respect for history.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gateposts Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (6).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The three tower blocks were built during the early 1960s (1959 to 1960) and completed by about 1964. This was a result of Jack (or John) Curtis, a local Labour activist. Curtis Gardens was opened in his name in 1965. These were named Coppice House, Hollypiece House, Homemeadow House after three fields in the area at the time called Coppice, Hollypiece and Homemeadow.

The Hollies towers seen below during January 2010.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

This included the Fish Sculpture by the sculptor John Bridgeman. It was later recognised with a Grade II listing in 2015.

The Fish Sculpture seen below during January 2010.

dndimg alt="Fish Sculpture" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Fish Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

In 2016 the Acocks Green Heritage Trail went up, this was board 8 of 8 in Curtis Gardens, near the gate.

Seen below during August 2016.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/AGHT Curtis Gardens (Aug 2016) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Curtis Gardens in 2010

My first photographic walk around Acocks Green was back in January 2010. At the time didn't know that this was called Curtis Gardens. View near a car park close to Fox Hollies Childrens Centre.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

There was light snow on the paths in Curtis Gardens. This view below toward the gates and benches on Fox Hollies Road.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Plenty of paths and trees around here.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

This path leads back to the shops on Fox Hollies Road.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

On the right used to be the Fox Hollies Tenants Hall. But long since demolished. In fact, I don't think it's been built on since it was knocked down.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (8).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

View to the snow covered car park, which at the time looked like an empty tennis court with no nets.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (9).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

View towards Coppice and Hollypiece House.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (10).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

A Sainsbury's delivery van looks like it was heading into the car park.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (11).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

View towards the three tower blocks. Hard to believe that Fox Hollies Hall was there until 1937.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (12).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Had the Council kept Fox Hollies Hall, could have made a nice tourist attraction, instead these three towers went up almost 30 years later.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (13).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

I used to take loads of views of Curtis Gardens back then.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (14).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The car park entrance road seen from the Fox Hollies Road.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (15).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The Gatepost and benches

Some more photos of the gates and benches from January 2010. They were restored in 2004, but by 2010 the gateposts were already covered in graffiti (I think the Council regularly cleans it up, but the taggers keep coming back).

dndimg alt="Gateposts Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gateposts Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

View from the back of the gates. They are a recreation of the original ones which were probably removed during the demolition of the mansion.

dndimg alt="Gateposts Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gateposts Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

This view towards Greenwood Avenue, which used to be the drive that Zaccheus Walker used to used to get to Fox Hollies Hall. The houses were probably built in the 1930s. Both Greenwood Avenue and Fox Hollies Road were turned into dual carriageways after the estate was sold to the Council.

dndimg alt="Gateposts Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gateposts Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Benches to the back of the gates, I've never once seen anyone sitting on them, on all the walks past here (even when on the 11A or in a car).

dndimg alt="Gateposts Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gateposts Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Also I've only ever seen these gates locked, so you have to walk around the side of the gateposts.

dndimg alt="Gateposts Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gateposts Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

They probably used to open around 2004 or 2005 when the new gates were installed.

dndimg alt="Gateposts Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gateposts Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (7).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The gates and benches were made by William Hawkes Ltd Blacksmiths. Was  minor bit of paintwork at the time missing. Not sure how often the Council paints these gates.

dndimg alt="Gateposts Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gateposts Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (8).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There was also these flowery details on the gates.

dndimg alt="Gateposts Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gateposts Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (9).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Two quarter benches behind the gates, both with small plaques on them.

dndimg alt="Gateposts Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gateposts Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (10).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Local councillors and a member of the Acocks Green Historical Society was mentioned on them.

dndimg alt="Gateposts Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gateposts Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (12).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Fish Sculpture

Installed in the 1960 for local children to play on, it has become a local landmark, but is easy for most people to ignore it going past. Made by John Bridgeman, it was recognised with a Grade II listing in 2015. A few more views below from January 2010.

dndimg alt="Fish Sculpture" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Fish Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

It is a unique survivor in it's original position, but it has been tagged over the years. Bridgeman had done other play sculptures around Birmingham, but it is believed that this one is the only one left surviving. Made on a wire frame covered in concrete.

dndimg alt="Fish Sculpture" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Fish Curtis Gardens (Jan 2010) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Curtis Gardens from 2019 to 2021

In the years since my original photos, I have walked through Curtis Gardens a lot, sometimes as a shortcut to the number 1 bus on Shaftmoor Lane (more recently the 1A seems to come first). In the last year, getting some photos on the lockdowns.

In late February 2019, I saw crocuses growing in the grass from near the Fox Hollies Road at Curtis Gardens. Spring was on the way.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Feb 2019) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Lots of white, purple and some yellow coloured crocuses here.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Feb 2019) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The crocuses looked good close up.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Feb 2019) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

A March 2019 view of Curtis Gardens below, taken from near Ferris Grove. Pemberley Road is to the left.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Mar 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Over a month into the first lockdown, it is the end of April 2020, and we were having April Showers. The trees lush and green from the Fox Hollies Road.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Apr 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The grass in Curtis Gardens was looking long too, perhaps some cow parsley was growing there at the time.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Apr 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A closer look at the long grass in Curtis Gardens and the cow parsley.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Apr 2020) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

In the last Spring, everything seemed to grow long in the first lockdown.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Apr 2020) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There was also bluebells growing here, when you can't go far in lockdown, you can only find bluebells in your local green spaces.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Apr 2020) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

One of the paths in Curtis Gardens. The leaves grew back fast in the first month of the original lockdown.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Apr 2020) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

One tree had purply red leaves as the rain was coming down.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Apr 2020) (7).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Another lockdown walk past Curtis Gardens in May 2020. This was near Hall Green Little Theatre on Pemberley Road.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (May 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Early February 2021, and a 3rd lockdown walk towards Tyseley Station. I passed Curtis Gardens on the Fox Hollies Road. This view near the car park entrance.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Feb 2021) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

By now there was small fences around Curtis Gardens, as in the past travellers had illegally set up camp here. So this is to prevent them driving over the land. As you can see the gateposts have graffiti tags on them again. Fish sculpture seen to the far left.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curtis Gardens (Feb 2021) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

A few days later, a walk around Hall Green. Got these views of Curtis Gardens from York Road, looking up Grimshaw Road.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curits Gdns Grimshaw Rd (Feb 2021) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

You can see the three tower blocks to the left from Grimshaw Road.

dndimg alt="Curtis Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curits Gdns Grimshaw Rd (Feb 2021) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

During this walk, got some more views of Homemeadow House, Hollypiece House and Coppice House. This view below taken on Shaftmoor Lane. On the bus route of the no 1 and 1A to Five Ways (via Moseley and Edgbaston).

dndimg alt="The Hollies" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/The Hollies Curtis Gdns (Feb 2021) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The 1 and 1A bus route in the other direction on Shaftmoor Lane heading towards Acocks Green Village.

dndimg alt="The Hollies" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/The Hollies Curtis Gdns (Feb 2021) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Heading down York Road in Hall Green, was a view of the three towers close to The Link.

dndimg alt="The Hollies" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/The Hollies Curtis Gdns (Feb 2021) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Back onto Fox Hollies Road, this view close to The York pub (closed on lockdown of course). Hard to imagine what it looked like over a century ago apart from looking at old black and white photographs of the area.

dndimg alt="The Hollies" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/The Hollies Curtis Gdns (Feb 2021) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown

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Elliott Brown Environment & green action
28 Jan 2021 - Elliott Brown
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Exploring the Birmingham Botanical Gardens over the years from multiple visits

I've been to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens several times over the last 5 or more years. Usually to attend something like the Magical Lantern Festival, Jurassic Kingdom or Ice Age: The Lost Kingdom events. More recently attended a free open day during Birmingham Heritage Week back in 2019. You can see various birds in cages, a roaming peacock, and butterflies in a greenhouse and more

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Exploring the Birmingham Botanical Gardens over the years from multiple visits





I've been to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens several times over the last 5 or more years. Usually to attend something like the Magical Lantern Festival, Jurassic Kingdom or Ice Age: The Lost Kingdom events. More recently attended a free open day during Birmingham Heritage Week back in 2019. You can see various birds in cages, a roaming peacock, and butterflies in a greenhouse and more


Birmingham Botanical Gardens

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens is located on Westbourne Road in Edgbaston, Birmingham. The Birmingham Botanical and Horticultural Society was founded in 1829 with the intent to found a botanical garden. It opened in 1832. The gardens are Grade II listed and was designed by J. C. Loudon. The Tropical House was built in 1852, followed by the Subtropical House in 1871. The Terrace glasshouses were built in 1884.

The gardens features a Bandstand and Aviary, four glasshouses (Tropical, Subtropical, Mediterranean and Arid glasshouses), plus a Alpine House and Butterfly House. There is a sunken Rose Garden, a cast iron Gazebo built in 1850. A rock garden and pool dating to 1895. Various walks that were laid out in 1862. Three period gardens (Tudor, Roman and Medieval) was created in 1994.

The gardens has a gift shop, plant sale centre, tea room, meeting and conference rooms. Famously the leaders of the G8 had a dinner party in the Pavilion Restaurant here in 1998.

 

2012

One of my earliest photos of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens taken during August 2012, walked past on Westbourne Road. I have been here as a child back in the 1980s, but didn't start taking photos here until this point.

 

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Aug 2012).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

2016

The first event I paid to go to the Botanical Gardens was at the Magical Lantern Festival during December 2016. Hung around the City Centre until it got dark and arrived for my time just before 5pm, but it was heavily raining.

Go here for the Magical Lantern Festival 2016 post.

dndimg alt="Magical Lantern Festival" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Magical Lantern Festival (Dec 2016) (12).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

While there (in the heavy rain) I got some photos of the Glasshouses. Bit hard to see in the dark, but was lit up inside.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Glasshouses Bham BotG (Dec 2016) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

View to the Pavilion Restaurant. That was where in 1998, the leaders of the G8 had a dinner party. Including the Clinton's and Blair's.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Glasshouses Bham BotG (Dec 2016) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

2017

In May 2017 I booked to see the Jurassic Kingdom event at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Better weather this time and was in the daytime. Animatronic dinosaurs. Plus while there got general photos of the gardens.

Got a post here for both Jurassic Kingdom 2017 and Ice Age: The Lost Kingdom 2019.

dndimg alt="Jurassic Kingdom" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Jurassic Kingdom 2017 Bham Botanical Gardens (8).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The Bandstand was installed here in 1873. It was renovated on it's centenary in 1973.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (May 2017) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The Bird Cages also known as the Aviary.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (May 2017) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Red-crowned parakeet in the Aviary (Bird Cage).

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (May 2017) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

One of the peacocks that roams around the Botanical Gardens.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (May 2017) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The fountain was built in 1850. It ceased to flow in 1940 but was restored to working order in 1982.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (May 2017) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The Gazebo dates to 1850 and was originally located at 32 Church Road, Edgbaston and was made of Cast Iron. Donated by the Lord Chancellor's Department in 1993. Restored in 1994.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (May 2017) (10).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Heading through The Tropical House.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (May 2017) (11).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

It is very warm in The Tropical House. A bench to sit down on.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (May 2017) (12).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Heading out of the Botanical Gardens, saw the blue plaque of Ernest Henry Wilson (1876 - 1930). Placed here by the Birmingham Civic Society in 2010.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (May 2017) (14).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

A few months later in August 2017, I was walking past the Botanical Gardens, and saw a view with Old Joe (the Joseph Chamberlain Memorial Clock Tower) at the University of Birmingham.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Aug 2017).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

By December 2017, there was a Christmas Lights Trail on at the Botanical Gardens, although I didn't go to it myself. But at the time I could see this Helter Skelter and a Carousel from the Westbourne Road. Taken from the no 24 bus. It looks like a fun fair was close to the car park.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Dec 2017).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

2018

In July 2018, I got off the no 24 bus on Westbourne Road in Edgbaston to see a new blue plaque at Birmingham City University. Got these photos of the Welcome signs on the walk up the road. This car park is usually full during events, and is best for people to park their cars elsewhere in Edgbaston and walk there.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Jul 2018) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

This Welcome sign on the main entrance building.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Jul 2018) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

During the open day at the Tyseley Locomotive Works in September 2018, West Midlands Railway was showing off 172 339 with it's purple livery. On the side was 2 for 1 offers, including at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. This livery has since been replaced with the standard orange one on all of their Class 172 trains on the Snow Hill Lines. I previously caught this at Birmingham Moor Street Station back in April 2018.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Tyseley WMR 172339 (Sep 2018) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The Magical Lantern Festival returned to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens in December 2018 (it was at Kings Heath Park in 2017). That year I didn't pay to go to it, just saw from either the no 23 or 24 buses. Santa was outside.

dndimg alt="Magical Lantern Festival" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Magical Lantern BBG (Dec 2018) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Was better to get off the bus to see Santa and the presents from Westbourne Road.

dndimg alt="Magical Lantern Festival" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Magical Lantern BBG (Dec 2018) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

They had unicorns with wings at the main entrance. Can you spot Old Joe on the right?

dndimg alt="Magical Lantern Festival" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Magical Lantern BBG (Dec 2018) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A few days later, tried to get some more shots from the top of a bus. Christmas tree near the main entrance.

dndimg alt="Magical Lantern Festival" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Magical Lantern BBG (Dec 2018) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Could see this shoe from the bus window.

dndimg alt="Magical Lantern Festival" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Magical Lantern BBG (Dec 2018) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

2019

Returned in April 2019 for the Ice Age: The Lost Kingdom event. Link to that post is further up this post. It was another opportunity to get general shots of the Botanical Gardens, as well as the animatronic wild beasts! Due to going to the previous event I attended, got an early bird ticket and went quite early on it's run!

dndimg alt="Ice Age The Lost Kingdom" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Ice Age The Lost Kingdom 2019 Bham Botanical Gardens (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Saw the peacock on the path near the ice age beasts.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Apr 2019) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A close up look at the Bandstand.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Apr 2019) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Into the Historic Gardens. On the right was The Tudor Knott Garden.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Apr 2019) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

At the far end was the statue of Proserpina.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Apr 2019) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The garden to the far left is The Medieval Garden.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Apr 2019) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The garden in the middle is The Roman Garden.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Apr 2019) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A view of the Alpine Yard redevelopment.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Botanical Gardens (Apr 2019) (7).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

By September 2019, it was Birmingham Heritage Week, and the gardens was packed! But on the Sunday it was free to visit, so had a full walk around this time. Go here for the Birmingham Heritage Week post of the weekend 14th and 15th September 2019. 5 photos in the original post (plus three other venues I visited that weekend).

More views below.

The entrance to the Botanical Gardens, with the stone dated 1832 above the Welcome canopy and Heritage Open Day bunting.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The Arid House, full of cactuses in here.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

It was nice and warm in here for the cactuses.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Outside to the Loudon Terrace. The border looked very colourful. Was also a lot of people around. Probably the last time it was this busy before the pandemic started in 2020.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

This was the Garden of Tomorrow.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (7).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The pond at the Garden of Memory.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (9).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A look at the Rock Garden and Pool. Lots of water lilies in the pool.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (10).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Was on the path from Farrer Walk to Wilson Walk. Saw this unique looking flower called Impatiens niamiamensis. Red, yellow and green.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (12).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

In the Butterfly House, was several butterflies, the rest were hibernating.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (14).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Saw these Rosy-faced lovebirds in one of the bird cages. There was a lot of them in there.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (16).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

On the Perennial borders saw a lot of Yellow coneflowers.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (17).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There was also this flower called Tagetes patula. Had red and yellow petals.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (18).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There was a parrot in the Aviary (Bird House). Saw plenty of other birds in there as well.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Botanical Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bham Botanical Gardens (Sept 2019) (19).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown

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An Edwardian gem that is Winterbourne House & Garden

I've only visited the garden at Winterbourne once, way back in August 2008, so was before I picked up Birmingham photography. One of the last places we went to with my late brother (passed November 2008). In the years since, I took some exteriors of the house fro Edgbaston Park Road when it was being restored, and another time for the blue plaque of John Nettlefold, who lived here.

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An Edwardian gem that is Winterbourne House & Garden





I've only visited the garden at Winterbourne once, way back in August 2008, so was before I picked up Birmingham photography. One of the last places we went to with my late brother (passed November 2008). In the years since, I took some exteriors of the house fro Edgbaston Park Road when it was being restored, and another time for the blue plaque of John Nettlefold, who lived here.


Winterbourne House & Garden

Winterbourne House and Winterbourne Botanic Garden is located on Edgbaston Park Road in Edgbaston and belongs to the University of Birmingham. It has been on the site since 1903, and been part of the University since 1944.

 

History of Winterbourne

Winterbourne House was built between 1903 and 1904 as the family home of John & Margaret Nettlefold. They commissioned the local architect Joseph Lancaster Bell to design and build the house. It was made of brick and tiles. The original garden was designed by Margaret Nettlefold herself. They lived here with their children until 1919, when John was getting a bit unwell.

The property was sold to the Wheelock family, who had 9 children. They lived here until 1925. It was then purchased by John Nicholson, who was a local businessman, and a keen gardener. He made improvements to the garden, adding a rock garden and alpine area. He was here until his death in 1944.

Winterbourne was then passed onto the University of Birmingham. Initially the house was used as student halls. The house has had a variety of uses since 1944. During 2009 to 2010, the house was fully restored. During this time the Birmingham Civic Society placed a blue plaque on the house for John Nettlefold.

The garden has many plants from around the world. The house now has a gift shop and tearoom. Plus an Art Gallery. During the Pandemic, the garden has only been open to members.

 

2008

So far the visit of August 2008 was the only time I've been to Winterbourne House & Garden, so is a bit hard to remember this visit (from 12 to 13 years ago). Other than it was one of the places we went to that year before my brother passed away of cancer in November 2008.

View from the garden of Winterbourne House.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne Garden (Aug 2008) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Below, one of my late brothers photos of a small boggy pond.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne Garden (Aug 2008) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

A pond with water lilies (my late brothers photo below). Not sure if this is the Chad Brook or not.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne Garden (Aug 2008) (5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Large leaves over the pond (or Chad Brook). (One of my late brothers photos below).

dndimg alt="Winterbourne Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne Garden (Aug 2008) (6).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Looking at my archive photos from that visit, I didn't take much, so only had a handle of photos like this. The pond / Chad Brook with water lilies.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne Garden (Aug 2008) (7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

One of my late brothers photos towards the house.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne Garden (Aug 2008) (8).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

He also took this one in the garden.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne Garden (Aug 2008) (9).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Yes this was one of his photos as well (I Photoshopped myself out of it).

dndimg alt="Winterbourne Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne Garden (Aug 2008) (10).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

What looks a ships deck.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne Garden (Aug 2008) (11).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The ships deck from the front.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne Garden (Aug 2008) (12).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

2009

About a year or so after loosing my brother, during December 2009,  I was walking past Winterbourne House on Edgbaston Park Road, while there was so on the ground at the University of Birmingham. Work was underway to restore the house. Was the same day as I got the statue of George I outside of the Barber Institute of Fine Arts (another place we visited back in 2008, but couldn't take photos inside unfortunately).

dndimg alt="Winterbourne House" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne House (Dec 2009) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

A University of Birmingham sign says this is part of the Green Zone. G.11 is Winterbourne House and G.12 is Winterbourne Botanic Garden.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne House" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne House (Dec 2009) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Looked like at the time they were also doing work on the grounds outside near the car park entrance.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne House" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne House (Dec 2009) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Details of the first and second floor with the roof covered in snow.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne House" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne House (Dec 2009) (5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

A sign welcomes you to Winterbourne. Garden Entrance to the left.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne House" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne House (Dec 2009) (7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

It was a blue sky day, snow everywhere but settled. The front drive was quite big. Public car park is also on this side.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne House" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne House (Dec 2009) (9).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

2013

The last time I got photos of Winterbourne House & Garden from Edgbaston Park Road was during February 2013, to see the blue plaque that had been installed there. Although I have walked up Edgbaston Park Road in the years since, just not taken any more photos of Winterbourne since then.

Saw this sign as I got close to Winterbourne House & Garden. Tearoom * Gifts * Gallery * Plants. University of Birmingham.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne House & Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne House (Feb 2013) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The house was looking as good as new, cars in the car park to the right.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne House & Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne House (Feb 2013) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The drive on the left is the entrance to cars going to the car park.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne House & Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne House (Feb 2013) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Heading to the blue plaque on the right.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne House & Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne House (Feb 2013) (4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The Birmingham Civic Society unveiled this blue plaque in 2010 in memory of John Sutton Nettlefold (1866 - 1930). He lived in this house from 1903 until 1919.

dndimg alt="Winterbourne House & Garden" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winterbourne House (Feb 2013) (5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Winterbourne during the pandemic

During the pandemic, Winterbourne Garden is open, but the house, shop and tearoom remain closed until further notice. But you can order gifts online and click & collect only (they don't offer a postal service). You can also get a Winterbourne Membership if you want to.

They are not operating a pre-booked system. They have reduced the number of visitors they can have at one time. Only University members or students with ID's can visit at the moment. So it looks like if you are not a member, or don't belong to the University you can't visit right now.

Would be nice to go again one day in the future when things get better.

 

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown

 

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Inspiration

Kings Heath Village Square at Vicarage Road and High Street near All Saints Church

The churchyard of All Saints Church in Kings Heath was refurbished into Kings Heath Village Square back in 2011. Located near Vicarage Road and the Kings Heath High Street. There is a regular Famers Market, once a month on the first Saturday of the month. Other events have taken place here over the years. Such as National Express West Midlands promoting the then new no 50 bus.

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Kings Heath Village Square at Vicarage Road and High Street near All Saints Church





The churchyard of All Saints Church in Kings Heath was refurbished into Kings Heath Village Square back in 2011. Located near Vicarage Road and the Kings Heath High Street. There is a regular Famers Market, once a month on the first Saturday of the month. Other events have taken place here over the years. Such as National Express West Midlands promoting the then new no 50 bus.


KINGS HEATH VILLAGE SQUARE

The Village Square opened in Kings Heath back in October 2011. The land was originally the churchyard of All Saints Church (some graves and grave stones remain, plus a war memorial). It's like an old village green now but in the heart of Kings Heath. One of the main features is a Labyrinth that people can walk around for fun. The All Saints Centre was also built around the same time (it includes a cafe and pharmacy).

Many cultural events and markets have taken place here over the years (before the pandemic). Such as the Kings Heath Farmers Market, taking place on the first Saturday of each month. Sometimes even a small fun fair with rides. Or collections for charity at Christmas time.

Kings Heath Village Square is located at a site between Vicarage Road and the High Street in Kings Heath, with All Saints Church to the far end of the square.

Bus routes include the 11A, 11C, 35, 50 and 76.

 

Kings Heath Village Square over the years

One of my earliest photos of Kings Heath Village Square, taken during February 2012, of the Labyrinth. You can see some market stalls near the Kings Heath All Saints Centre. Taken during the Kings Heath Farmers Market on Saturday 4th February 2012.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Village Square" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kings Heath Village Square (Feb 2012).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

A day later on Sunday 5th February 2012, I returned to Kings Heath when there was a snowfall. This view of Kings Heath Village Square towards the All Saints Centre.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Village Square" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/All Saints Kings Heath Village Sq (Feb 2012) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

A blue sky during the middle of January 2020 as seen in Kings Heath Village Square. The Platinum buses had been on the 50 for over a year by this point. All Saints Church seen to the left.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Village Square" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kings Heath Village Square (Jan 2020).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Some snow in Kings  Heath Village Square, as seen from the no 11A bus on Vicarage Road. This was near the end of December 2020 (while still in Tier 3 restrictions at the time). View to All Saints Church.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Village Square" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kings Heath Village Sq snowing 29122020 (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Markets and fairs in the Village Square over the years

 

Kings Heath Farmers Market

This was the Kings Heath Farmers Market as held on Saturday 7th December 2013. It was Christmas time, so there was also some rides there for kids, as well as Father Christmas.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Farmers Market" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Farmers Market Kings Heath Village Sq (Dec 2013) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

It was open from 9am until 2pm. The Christmas Gift & Craft Fayre was also being held by the Moseley & Kings Heath Lions Club.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Farmers Market" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Farmers Market Kings Heath Village Sq (Dec 2013) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Plenty of market stalls all around the square that day.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Farmers Market" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Farmers Market Kings Heath Village Sq (Dec 2013) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Bottles of a drink for sale.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Farmers Market" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Farmers Market Kings Heath Village Sq (Dec 2013) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A Disney style teacups ride for kids to enjoy.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Farmers Market" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Farmers Market Kings Heath Village Sq (Dec 2013) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Oh look, it's Father Christmas in his sleigh with a couple of reindeer! From the Moseley & Kings Heath Lions Club.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Farmers Market" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Farmers Market Kings Heath Village Sq (Dec 2013) (7).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Kings Heath Winter Fest

This took place on Saturday the 15th November 2014 in Kings Heath Village Square. Plenty of rides for kids to go on.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Winter Fest" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kings Heath Winter Fest Kings Heath Village Sq (Nov 2014) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

A small ferris wheel.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Winter Fest" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kings Heath Winter Fest Kings Heath Village Sq (Nov 2014) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Hook A Duck

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Winter Fest" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kings Heath Winter Fest Kings Heath Village Sq (Nov 2014) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Signs showing that the All Saints Centre had hall & rooms available for hire. Also the banner for this event.

dndimg alt="Kings Heath Winter Fest" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kings Heath Winter Fest Kings Heath Village Sq (Nov 2014) (4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Brum Yum Yum Kings Heath

This event took place on the 9th April 2016. It was part of the KingshEATh Streetfood Market.

From this VW Campervan you could buy Mexican Street Food. Cafe Borchata.

dndimg alt="Brum Yum Yum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Brum Yum Yum Kings Heath Vil Sq (Apr 2016) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The British Bus Bar, was next to something about Virgin Media.

dndimg alt="Brum Yum Yum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Brum Yum Yum Kings Heath Vil Sq (Apr 2016) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The Food Yule Love trailer.

dndimg alt="Brum Yum Yum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Brum Yum Yum Kings Heath Vil Sq (Apr 2016) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Drink Up.

dndimg alt="Brum Yum Yum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Brum Yum Yum Kings Heath Vil Sq (Apr 2016) (4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Charlie Dumpling was outside of the All Saints Centre.

dndimg alt="Brum Yum Yum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Brum Yum Yum Kings Heath Vil Sq (Apr 2016) (5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The 50 bus from National Express West Midlands

On Saturday the 18th April 2015, National Express West Midlands launched the (then) new bus to be used on the no 50 bus route between Birmingham City Centre and Druids Heath (via Balsall Heath, Kings Heath, Moseley and the Maypole).

dndimg alt="The 50" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/The 50 Kings Heath Village Square (April 2015) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

It was 6132 Julie.

dndimg alt="The 50" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/The 50 Kings Heath Village Square (April 2015) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

This fleet of buses was on the 50 from 2015 to 2018, before being transferred to the 11A and 11C, when the 50 went Platinum from December 2018.

dndimg alt="The 50" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/The 50 Kings Heath Village Square (April 2015) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

These buses have since been rebranded from 50 to 11A or 11C, with hints of yellow over the red. So it's more likely that you might be on the 11 on Vicarage Road, than on a 50 on the High Street (as you'd be in Platinum bus instead).

dndimg alt="The 50" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/The 50 Kings Heath Village Square (April 2015) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The Big Hoot Birmingham 2015

The trail of painted owls wasn't only in the City Centre back in the summer of 2015, but you could find some in Kings Heath (as well as the little owls). One owl was here in Kings Heath Village Square, plus you could find another one in Kings Heath Park and outside of Kings Heath Library at the time. The trail ran for 10 weeks (after which the owls were auctioned off for charity).

In Kings Heath Village Square you could find: The Owl and the Pussycat Went to Sea by the artist Mik Richardson. It was sponsored by the Kings Heath BID. Seen during July 2015.

dndimg alt="The Big Hoot" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kings Heath Village Square (July 2015).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Classic Car Meet

Click here for the full Classic Car Meet post. This was held on the August Bank Holiday Monday, 26th August 2019 in Kings Heath Village Square. I was changing buses from the 50 to 11A when I spotted all these classic cars and I went to have a look before going home.

dndimg alt="Classic Car Meet" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Classic Car Meet Kings Heath Village Square (Aug 2019) (12).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown

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18 Jan 2021 - Elliott Brown
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A visit to Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses during September 2020

On the afternoon of the 6th September 2020, we booked to go to the National Trust property and grounds of Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses. Located in Staffordshire near the village of Kinver (and not too far from Stourbridge). The Holy Austin Rock Houses were still lived in until the 1960s. Due to the pandemic, you couldn't go into the houses, just peek into them.

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A visit to Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses during September 2020





On the afternoon of the 6th September 2020, we booked to go to the National Trust property and grounds of Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses. Located in Staffordshire near the village of Kinver (and not too far from Stourbridge). The Holy Austin Rock Houses were still lived in until the 1960s. Due to the pandemic, you couldn't go into the houses, just peek into them.


Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses

 

A visit to Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses during September 2020. This was on the afternoon of the 6th September 2020. As before, we booked the tickets via the National Trust website (which goes onto the EventBrite app). Outside of the forest was a car park, and we passed an ice cream van. We booked in for 2:30pm. You head up to the gate, and get your ticket scanned, then proceed to walk up to the Rock Houses.

 

This National Trust site is near the village of Kinver in Staffordshire, and isn't too far from Stourbridge (around 4 miles away). There is caves in the hills, some that had houses built into them. Kinver Edge includes a heath and woodland. The National Trust was first given the estate in 1917 (around 198 acres) by the children of Thomas Grosvenor Lee (who was a Birmingham solicitor born in Kinver). The Trust acquired a further 85 acres between 1964 and 1980. In 2014 Worcestershire County Council approved the transfer of Kingsford Forest Park to the National Trust. By 2018 the parks signs were now reading National Trust Kinver Edge.

Kinver Edge was home to the last troglodyte homes in England. One of the rock houses was called Holy Austin (which you can visit). It was a hermitage until the Reformation. The Holy Austin Rock Houses were lived in until the 1960s. In normal times you can visit them, but during the summer and autumn of 2020, you could only peek into the rock houses.

Further up was a tearoom and caves. You could put your mask on, and order a coffee and cake and sit at the tables outside (this was when restrictions were eased, and before they were strengthened again).

Also located here was Nanny's Rock, which was a large cave, but it was never converted into a house. There was also Vale's Rock, which had also been known as Crow's Rock. It had been converted into houses and was last occupied in the 1960s. But due to it's dangerous condition it is out of bounds to visitors. Although you can see it from the tables and chairs of the Tearoom area.

From 1901 to 1930, it used to be possible for visitors to get the Kinver Light Railway, which connected to Birmingham's original tram network (operated from 1904 to 1953 by Birmingham Corporation Tramways). But it closed due to the popularity of the motorbus and motorcars. These days, only cars and coaches can get to Kinver Edge on Compton Road. Although I only remember parking spaces available for cars.

 

After you explore the rock houses and caves, you can head up into the Woodland and climb up to the Toposcope (if you want to).

 

After showing our tickets in the EventBrite app, we walked around to the Rock Houses. This was the first glimpse of one of them.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

These are the Holy Austin Rock Houses at Kinver Edge.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Teas written on the wall of one of the Rock Houses. Probably Vale's Rock.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There is at least three levels to the Rock Houses here at Kinver Edge, along with some caves.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

It wouldn't be long before I got to see this Rock House up and close, but first had to walk up some steps.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A Keep Out sign near the rocks. Not all areas are safe for the public to go.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

I would get a better view of these Rock Houses once we went up the steps.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (7).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Close up to the first Rock House at the corner. The Holy Austin Rock Houses on the Lower Level.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (8).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

You could peek into the Rock Houses, but a rope prevented you from entering.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (9).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A look at the objects on the table in this Rock House.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (10).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Pots and pans in this small cave.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (11).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Some Rock Houses had open windows, and you could peek into them. Looks like a bedroom.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (12).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The window of this Rock House was only slightly open.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (13).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A path goes around the Rock Houses to view some more of them. These are the Holy Austin Rock Houses. Ghost sign above barely readable.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (14).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Doors on the Rock Houses to the left were closed, so you couldn't see inside of these ones.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (15).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A look at Nanny's Rock (I think). Caves that were never converted into Rock Houses. For many years it was known as Meg-o-Fox-Hole. Someone may have died here in 1617 known as Margaret of the fox earth. Visible from the Middle Level, near tables and chairs from the Tearoom (over a fence).

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (16).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

When you get to the Upper Level, there is a cave you can enter. The ground is covered in sand, plus I think graffiti had been scratched into the rocks over the years. This is near the Tearoom. These are the Martindale Caves and have a 1930s appearance.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (17).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The Tearoom is on the Upper Level, to the left of the caves. Tables and chairs were outside to the right (in front of the caves). But if occupied, you had to stand up having your coffee or tea. Toilets were around to the left. This house has been restored to a Victorian appearance.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (18).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

After going through the gate, exiting the Rock Houses, saw a view of the Victorian style Tearoom house. Toilets on the left. From here you can follow the paths and steps up the hill to the summit of Kinver Edge.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (19).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The Toposcope at the top of the hill on Kinver Edge. It has a map of the Midlands, which was restored by the Rotary Club of Kinver in 2014 (it was originally presented by them in 1990). Showing all the counties of the West Midlands region. Plus the major towns and cities (including Birmingham). Plus major hills such as the Lickey Hills and Clent Hills.

dndimg alt="Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kinver Edge Rock Houses (Sept 2020) (20).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown

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