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November 22 2008
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Aston Hall
    Trinity Road
Aston
Birmingham
B6 6JD
West Midlands
England
Collection details
Costume and Textiles, Decorative and Applied Art, Fine Art, Personalities, Science and Technology, Social History, Weapons and War
Facilities
Parking: yes Food: yes Shop: yes Wheelchair access: yes
[ icon key ]
Contact details
General information (Tel) : 0121 327 0062
General information (Fax) : 0121 327 7162
Website : www.birmingham.gov.uk/astonhall
Open
Open April to October, Tuesday to Sunday 11.30am - 4.00pm
Closed
Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays
Admission charges
Free Admission
Description
One of the last great homes to be built in the flamboyant Jacobean style, the mansion which was built between 1618 and 1635 for Sir Thomas Holte. In 1643 the house was badly damaged in an attack by Parliamentary troops. Scars left by cannon-shot can still be seen on its magnificent Great Stairs. The house remained in the Holte family until 1817. It was then leased to James Watt Junior, the son of the great industrial pioneer, who lived there until his death. It was purchased by Birmingham Corporation in 1864. Aston Hall by Candlelight is a popular event which takes place in the superb surroundings of this Grade 1 listed building every two years. The mansion is lit by over 500 candles each night with actors helping to recreate 17th Century Christmas festivities.The next event is planned for Christmas 2004
Collections description
Today the house is displayed as a series of period rooms containing fine furniture, paintings, textiles and metal work from the collections of Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery.

Key artists and exhibits
Jacobean style mansion ; Sir Thomas Holte ; James Watt Junior


Articles
News In Brief - Week Ending June 22 2008
Put Pen To Paper For The Big Draw This October

General Information
Brochure or leaflet available with directions to museum
Pre-booking service for groups
Collections
General guide to collections available
Disability Access
Wheelchair access to some public areas
General Education
Education facilities available
Reception and lunch facilities for educational groups
Schools Education
Direct teaching services for schools
Primary school education service available
Printed/audio-visual information available for schools
Secondary school education service available
Facilities
Facilities for private functions and events
Meeting room available
Restaurant
Shop
 
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