Little Aston Hall

Little Aston Hall is a historic country house in the village of Little Aston, Staffordshire, a short drive from Lichfield and Sutton Coldfield. It has been listed Grade II since 1975. It is not a ticketed attraction today, but it rewards anyone interested in English country-house architecture.

What is Little Aston Hall?

A Georgian mansion set in what was once a landscaped park with a lake. The original house dates to the early 18th century, around 1730, and is credited to Richard Scott of nearby Great Barr Hall. Over two centuries it passed through several owners, and the building you see now layers more than one era.

Who remodelled it?

The national heritage listing names two major phases. Around 1790 James Wyatt, one of the leading architects of his day, rebuilt the house; local accounts link the work to William Tennant. In 1857-59 architect Edward Payne enlarged it for Colonel Swynfen Parker Jervis. The result is a central block with flanking pavilions in an Italianate manner. A building journal of 1860 described the old rectangular house as having gained a centre and two grand wings.

What else is protected on the estate?

Two further features have their own Grade II listings: the gate piers at the main entrance and an orangery roughly 150 metres south of the hall.

Can you go inside?

No. The estate was broken up in the 20th century, and after commercial and institutional uses the hall was converted into private residences. There is no ticket office, tour or public access to the interiors. Treat it as a stop on a wider drive and view it only from publicly accessible spots, respecting residents' privacy.

How do you get there?

Little Aston lies north of Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield, in the Shenstone area of Lichfield district. By car it takes a short drive from central Birmingham. Public transport is sparse, so drive or take a taxi. Lichfield, with its three-spired cathedral, is a few minutes further on.

When should you go?

Because the hall is seen from outside, pick a dry day between late spring and early autumn. Pair it with Lichfield, which offers the cathedral and several sites tied to the Civil War.

Frequently asked questions

Is Little Aston Hall open to visitors?

No. The building is divided into private homes and the interiors are closed to the public.

What style is the house?

It is a Georgian residence, enlarged in the 19th century in an Italianate style, with a central block and side pavilions.

Is the building protected?

Yes. It has been Grade II listed since 29 October 1975, and the gate piers and orangery are listed too.

What is worth seeing nearby?

Lichfield is the obvious choice, with its cathedral and Prince Rupert's Mound, a relic of the 1643 siege. Sutton Park is also close.