Saint Nicolas Place is the finest collection of medieval buildings in Birmingham owned and managed by Kings Norton Parish church for all to discover, enjoy and use.
The Tudor Merchant’s House, owned by Humphrey Rotsey, a wool merchant who wanted to flaunt his wealth, was built in 1492. The rooms inside include the Parlour, which the tradesman used to entertain his guests, the North Hall, a room that presents an example of wattle and daub, and the Queen’s Room, where Queen Henrietta Maria stayed for a night in 1643.
In the Gable room, where archives are kept and archaeological discoveries are stored, visitors will find an original gable. The 17th Century Old Grammar School was the place where Thomas Hall, a Puritan schoolmaster, taught his students and people believe that his book collection, which rivaled that of the Archbishop of Canterbury, was stored there. He criticized women who were “painting, patching, spotting and blotting themselves”.
In 1913, the Old Grammar School was almost destroyed by two Suffragettes who intended to burn it down, though they resisted when they entered the building.
Today the Tudor Merchant’s House, the Saracen’s Head and the Old Grammar School are used for a variety of purposes, including meetings, training courses, wedding functions and birthday parties. The upstairs kitchen provides facilities for external caterers to prepare food. Events are held throughout the year including the monthly Craft Fayre and Flea Market, book sale, Kings Norton Festival, school holiday activities and Christmas themed occasions.
The Ashford Hall is the perfect venue for dance classes such as “Zumba” and “Feel The Rhythm”. Saint Nicolas Place invites schools to experience a day of Tudor or Victorian themed “hands-on” activities and demonstrations that will enrich their learning and help them understand better the historical period connected to their visit.
The in-house café serves a variety of good food including light lunches, snacks and a selection of cakes. Hot and cold drinks are also on offer. Guided tours take place every Friday and Saturday at 11am and 2pm, which generally last around an hour or two depending on the amount of information that the tour guide can offer.
Matthew Knox.
Heritage & Learning Officer
