Peddimore Hall

Peddimore Hall Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in Birmingham Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Peddimore Hall, located in Minworth near Sutton Coldfield in Birmingham, UK, stands as a rare and evocative testament to over 5,000 years of human activity. With its distinctive double rectangular moat, medieval timber-framed barn, and archaeological layers spanning from the Neolithic to the post-medieval era, the site offers a unique insight into the evolution of English rural life and architecture. Though the Hall remains a private residence with no regular public interior access, its moats, earthworks, and historic landscape can be appreciated from public footpaths. This comprehensive guide details Peddimore Hall’s history, its archaeological and architectural features, practical visitor information, and how to experience this remarkable Birmingham historical site responsibly.

Introduction
Early Origins and Archaeological Evidence
Medieval Manor and the Arden Family
The Medieval Moat and Chapel
Timber-Framed Barn
The 17th-Century Hall
Scheduled Ancient Monument Status
Agricultural Continuity
Moated Site and Earthworks
Archaeological Surveys and Research
Heritage Status and Conservation
Visitor Information
Access and Visiting Hours
Accessibility
Directions and Travel Tips
Guided Tours and Events
Practical Visitor Tips
Nearby Attractions
Accessibility for Researchers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media
Plan Your Visit
Conclusion
Sources

Early Origins and Archaeological Evidence

The Peddimore Hall site is steeped in history, with evidence of continuous occupation dating back over 5,000 years. Archaeological finds, such as Neolithic flints and Roman coins, confirm long-standing human presence (Minworth History). The visible ridge and furrow earthworks reveal medieval and possibly earlier agricultural practices, highlighting the site’s enduring role in food production and rural life.

The name “Peddimore” derives from Old English, referencing “Peoda’s marshland”—a nod to its ancient roots. The landscape’s archaeological richness is further illustrated by ditches, gullies, and pottery sherds unearthed nearby, attesting to prehistoric and Roman activity (Sutton Green Belt Archaeology PDF).

Medieval Manor and the Arden Family

Peddimore Hall’s first documented mention as a manor dates to circa 1281, when the de Arden family—prominent landowners connected to the Earls of Warwick and William Shakespeare’s maternal lineage—held the estate (Minworth History). The manor boasted privileges such as fishing rights, pannage, and timber extraction. While direct evidence is lacking, Shakespeare’s familial ties make it plausible he visited the Hall.

The Medieval Moat and Chapel

Surrounding Peddimore Hall is a rare double rectangular moat—one of the best-preserved in England (Archaeology Data Service). Moats signified both defense and status among the medieval gentry. The moat’s dramatic earthworks remain visible from public footpaths today. A licensed chapel, recorded in 1360, underscores the estate’s medieval prominence, though it no longer survives.

Timber-Framed Barn

A remarkable 14th-century timber-framed barn, built in 1385, survives on the grounds and is viewable from public rights of way (Minworth History). This rare structure offers a tangible link to medieval agricultural life and estate management.

The 17th-Century Hall

The present brick-built Peddimore Hall, constructed between 1660 and 1671 by William Wilson for William Wood, replaced the earlier manor house (Minworth History). Its architecture marks a transition from timber-framing to brick and sandstone, reflecting changing tastes and technologies of the era.

Scheduled Ancient Monument Status

The Hall’s moated site and associated earthworks are protected as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, ensuring preservation and legal protection (Birmingham City Council, Historic England). The 17th-century Hall itself is Grade II listed, highlighting its architectural and historic value.

Agricultural Continuity

The visible ridge and furrow patterns, along with earthwork fishponds, reflect centuries of agricultural continuity (Minworth History). These features provide insight into medieval open-field farming and estate management.

Moated Site and Earthworks

Peddimore’s concentric double moat and associated banks, dams, and island are among the site’s most significant features (Archaeology Data Service). The moat, outer banks, and remnants of the earlier manor layout are best appreciated from designated public footpaths.

Archaeological Surveys and Research

Archaeological fieldwork, including aerial photography and trenching, has mapped the site’s multi-layered history, revealing features dating from prehistoric to post-medieval times (Sutton Green Belt Archaeology PDF). These studies have enriched understanding of Peddimore’s development and its role in the local landscape.

Heritage Status and Conservation

The moated site, fishponds, and ridge and furrow earthworks are protected as a scheduled monument (Archaeology Data Service). Conservation efforts focus on maintaining these features and managing any potential impact from development or increased visitation.

Visitor Information

Access and Visiting Hours

Interior Access: Peddimore Hall is a private residence. There is no public access to the interior or private grounds.
Viewing: The Hall, double moat, timber barn, and landscape can be appreciated from a public footpath off Peddimore Lane, accessible year-round during daylight hours.
Tickets: No tickets or entrance fees are required for viewing from public footpaths.
Special Events: Occasionally, during Birmingham Heritage Week or local heritage events, guided walks may be offered—check with Birmingham Heritage Week and local history groups.

Directions and Travel Tips

By Car: Near the A38, approximately 8 miles from Birmingham city centre. Limited parking is available along Peddimore Lane. Do not block access for residents.
By Public Transport: Sutton Coldfield train station is the nearest major stop; local buses or taxis connect to Minworth and Peddimore Lane.
By Bicycle/On Foot: The site is linked to local walking and cycling routes, including a 4.3 km trail around the nearby Peddimore employment site.

Accessibility

Footpaths: The public path is uneven and may be muddy, making access difficult for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Facilities: No amenities on-site; nearest facilities are in Minworth or Sutton Coldfield.

Guided Tours and Events

While regular tours of the Hall are not available, local historical societies sometimes organize guided walks focusing on the moated landscape and its history. Check with the Sutton Coldfield Local History Research Group for announcements.

Practical Visitor Tips

Remain on public footpaths and do not enter private property.
Wear sturdy footwear.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera for landscape photography.
No littering—take all rubbish with you.
Visit in spring or summer for the best scenery.

Nearby Attractions

Wishaw Golf Club: Next to the Hall for golf enthusiasts.
Sutton Park: One of Europe’s largest urban parks, nearby, with extensive trails and wildlife.
Heritage Trails: Include Aston Hall, Blakesley Hall, and Birmingham Back to Backs for a broader exploration of Birmingham’s history (UK Travel Planning).

Accessibility for Researchers

Academic researchers can access historical records and archaeological reports at Birmingham Reference Library and through Birmingham University’s Field Archaeology Unit.

Visuals and Media

Alt text: Peddimore Hall timber-framed barn, a rare example of medieval agricultural architecture in Birmingham historical sites.

High-quality images and occasional virtual tours are available during special events on the Birmingham Heritage Week website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I tour inside Peddimore Hall?
No, the Hall is a private residence and not open to the public.

Are tickets required to visit?
No tickets are needed to view the Hall from public footpaths.

What are the visiting hours?
The footpath is accessible year-round during daylight hours.

Are guided tours available?
Occasional guided walks are organized by local history groups; check local event listings.

Is the site wheelchair accessible?
The footpath is uneven and may not be suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Plan Your Visit

Peddimore Hall offers a unique glimpse into Birmingham’s deep past, from prehistoric settlement to medieval manor and beyond. While interior access is not available, the Hall’s landscape, moat, and historic features can be enjoyed respectfully from public vantage points. Combine your visit with nearby historical sites for a richer cultural experience.

For the latest updates, download the Audiala app and follow local heritage groups on social media.

Conclusion

Peddimore Hall’s exceptional double moat, medieval structures, and archaeological landscape make it a standout among Birmingham’s historical sites. Although private, the Hall’s enduring presence and visible features allow visitors to connect with centuries of English heritage. Plan your visit for daylight hours, respect private property, and use public footpaths to immerse yourself in this remarkable piece of local history.