Turves Green Boys' School

Turves Green Boys School Birmingham: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Information

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located in Northfield, Birmingham, Turves Green Boys’ School is an established educational institution at the heart of a district steeped in history and cultural significance. This comprehensive guide explores what visitors can expect, delves into the heritage of the school and its surroundings—including the medieval Hawkesley Moat and the iconic Turves Green Monument—and provides all the practical details needed for a rewarding visit. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a parent, or a traveler keen to explore Birmingham’s lesser-known landmarks, this resource will help you plan your trip and appreciate the depth of local heritage.

To ensure your visit is well-prepared, refer to official sources such as tgbs.co.uk, Birmingham Heritage Trust, and the Turves Green Monument site.

Introduction to Turves Green Boys’ School and Surroundings
History and Cultural Significance
Turves Green Boys’ School Heritage
Hawkesley Moat and English Civil War Connection
Turves Green Monument and Industrial Legacy
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours and Access
Tickets and Guided Tours
Visitor Guidelines and Safety
Accessibility
Facilities and Amenities
Getting There and Transportation
Things to See and Do
Exploring Hawkesley Moat Remains
Visiting Turves Green Monument
Nearby Attractions
Special Events and Community Engagement
Travel Tips and Photography
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Contact and Additional Resources
Conclusion

Turves Green Boys’ School and Historical Surroundings

Turves Green Boys’ School serves boys aged 11 to 18, renowned for academic excellence and its commitment to holistic development. Beyond its educational offerings, the school is adjacent to two significant heritage sites:

Hawkesley Moat: A medieval earthwork believed to have been the site of a fortified manor house, with documented connections to the English Civil War.
Turves Green Monument: An emblematic late-19th-century structure commemorating Birmingham’s industrial pioneers, standing as a symbol of community spirit and historical resilience.

Together, these sites reflect the area’s layered past—from medieval and Civil War-era remnants to industrial and educational advancements.

Visiting Hours and Access

Turves Green Boys’ School: Open to visitors Monday to Friday, 8:00 am–4:00 pm, by appointment or for scheduled events. All visitors must check in at the main reception.
Hawkesley Moat: Outdoor grounds are accessible year-round with no entrance fee. Wear appropriate footwear, as terrain can be uneven.
Turves Green Monument: Open daily, 9:00 am–6:00 pm. Free general admission; guided tours and special events may require prior booking and a nominal fee (monument tickets).

Getting There

Public Transport: Bus services link Northfield to central Birmingham. The nearest postcode for GPS is B31 4BS.
Train: Turves Green railway station is nearby.
Car: Limited street parking is available; a dedicated parking lot serves the monument.
On Foot or Bike: All sites are accessible via local footpaths and cycle routes.

History and Cultural Significance

Turves Green Boys’ School

Founded with a vision for academic excellence, the school has evolved from a Technology and Humanities College to a modern institution offering a broad curriculum and inclusive support for students with special educational needs.

Hawkesley Moat

This earthwork is a rare survival from medieval Birmingham and is believed to have played a role during the English Civil War. Its remnants provide a tangible connection to regional conflict and changing land use over centuries.

Turves Green Monument

Erected in the late 19th century, the monument celebrates local pioneers and the district’s industrial legacy, with intricate stonework and informative plaques detailing Birmingham’s transformation from a manufacturing hub to a dynamic urban center.

Facilities and Amenities

Academic and Sports Facilities: Modern classrooms, assembly halls, outdoor sports fields, and indoor athletic facilities.
Dining: On-site canteen serves breakfast and lunch, catering to various dietary needs.
Accessibility: School and monument offer wheelchair access, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Some parts of Hawkesley Moat are uneven; sturdy footwear is recommended.
Special Needs Support: The school provides tailored support for students with SEN; visitors requiring assistance should contact in advance.

Things to See and Do

Hawkesley Moat: Walk the historic grounds, read interpretive panels, and enjoy the site’s natural tranquility.
Turves Green Monument: Examine the sculptural details, join a guided tour, and attend special heritage events.
Nearby Attractions:
- Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery: A 15-minute drive with rich collections.
- Turves Green Park: Ideal for walks and relaxation.
- Longbridge and West Heath: Explore local history and contemporary culture.

Special Events and Community Engagement

School Events: Awards evenings, sports days, poetry workshops, and public speaking competitions. Details are posted on the school’s website.
Monument Events: Heritage days, festivals, and workshops held throughout the year (Turves Green Monument).
Community Outreach: Partnerships with Birmingham Heritage Trust and local organizations for guided walks and history talks.

Visitor Guidelines

Registration: All school visitors must sign in and wear a badge.
Conduct: Respect safeguarding policies, remain in designated areas, and follow staff instructions.
Photography: Permitted outdoors; photography inside the school or during events requires prior approval.
Dress Code: Please dress appropriately and behave respectfully to support a safe, inclusive environment.
Safety: Follow all health and safety instructions; familiarize yourself with fire evacuation routes.

Travel Tips and Photography

Visit early or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Bring water and dress for variable weather.
Share your photos of the monument with #TurvesGreenMonument on social media.
Download the Visit Birmingham app for maps and further tips (Visit Birmingham).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entrance fee for any of the sites?
A: No. The school and surrounding historical sites are free to visit; some special events or guided tours may require tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Guided tours are available at the monument and can be arranged for the school by appointment. Contact the relevant site for bookings.

Q: Is the area accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, most facilities are accessible. Some outdoor areas (e.g., Hawkesley Moat) may have uneven terrain.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, but photography inside the school requires permission.

Q: How can I find out about upcoming events?
A: Check the official school and monument websites, or follow their social media channels.

Contact and Additional Resources

Turves Green Boys’ School:
- Address: Turves Green, Northfield, Birmingham, B31 4BS
- Phone: 0121 483 2890
- Email: [email protected]
- tgbs.co.uk
Birmingham Heritage Trust: birminghamheritagetrust.org.uk
Turves Green Monument: turvesgreenmonument.org

Follow Birmingham Heritage Trust on Twitter and Visit Birmingham on Facebook for updates.

Conclusion

Turves Green Boys’ School and its historic surroundings offer a unique snapshot of Birmingham’s educational, medieval, and industrial heritage. With thoughtfully maintained facilities, free access to outdoor sites, and a range of events and guided tours, the area invites visitors to connect with the city’s past and present. Plan your visit today to explore this dynamic blend of history, learning, and community spirit.