Visit this Jacobean-style mansion to learn about the history of Aston, a suburb of Birmingham, and enjoy craft and poetry events.

Explore the grounds and house of the Aston Hall estate to see interior decorations from the 17th to 19th centuries, admire Jacobean architecture, and find artifacts that tell of the history of the district. Aston Hall was built between 1618 and 1635 as the home of affluent landowner Sir Thomas Holte and his family. They lived in the house until 1817. The son of steam engine inventor James Watt also resided here.

One of your first stops should be the mansion’s rooms, which are furnished with pieces from the house’s early days. Check out the artwork of the Long Gallery and the Great Chamber, which once hosted royalty such as King Charles I. Look for a hole in the staircase that is the result of a cannonball shot.

Go to the Stables Range to find the Astonish Gallery, where interactive displays retell the history of Aston. Younger visitors will enjoy building their own model town and trying on period clothing.

Bring a picnic and relax in the manicured gardens while the kids have fun on the slides and merry-go-round of the play center. Drinks and snacks are available from the park’s café.

Come to Aston Hall during one of its family-orientated events. Watch Irish dancing and visit the soccer ground of Aston Villa Football Club at the annual Aston Heritage Day, held in June. Take part in writing and poetry workshops, and be creative with family craft activities. Find more information about events at Aston Hall online at the Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery (BMAG) website.

Aston Hall is a 10-minute drive from Birmingham’s city center and parking is free on site. The closest train stations are Aston and Witton (West Midlands), which are both a 15-minute walk away. Public buses also stop close to the hall’s main entrance.

The mansion and gardens are open from Tuesday to Sunday during the summer months. Check the BMAG website for exact dates. There is an admission fee for the house but no fee to explore the grounds. Admission to the house is free on the first Sunday of the month.