The ruins on Alwold Road are what give our suburb its name. They are the remains of a moated medieval manor house built in the 13th century — not a castle in the military sense, but a fortified residence with a moat, curtain wall, towers, battlements, and an imposing gatehouse.

A long history

The site has been inhabited since the 12th century. The Domesday Book records the land as part of the estates of William Fitz Ansculf. The manor changed hands many times over the centuries before falling into disrepair after 1531. Stone from the building was later removed to construct a nearby farm and the Dudley No. 2 canal.

Today the ruins are a Grade II listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument — one of the oldest structures in Birmingham.

Visiting the site

Birmingham Museums Trust manages the site as a community museum. The ruins can be viewed from a public viewing platform on Alwold Road. Direct access to the ruins is available on event days or by pre-booked guided tour for groups and schools.

The site has benefited from major conservation work funded by Birmingham City Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund, and English Heritage. A community education centre has also been built on site.

For opening times, events, and volunteering opportunities, visit the Birmingham Museums website or call 0121 464 2193.