The Kings Norton area has a rich history and its medieval green lies at the heart of a flourishing and diverse community. On the green stands one of the oldest grammar schools in the country, a 12th century church and a 15th century merchant's house now collectively known as Saint Nicolas Place. All are buildings of considerable historical and architectural importance and were winners of BBC Two's Restoration 2004.

The Old Grammar school is now fully restored. Its most famous headmaster was Thomas Hall, a hard nosed, puritanical, protestant who took up his post in 1629. Hall threw his heart and soul into his job and on his death, his legacy to the country was one of the largest libraries in the land. It is now housed in Birmingham Central Library.

After continuing as a school for two hundred more years, the building fell into neglect at the beginning of the 19th century. Repairs were made in 1910 when a new external staircase was put in and again in 1951 after vandalism and further decay had taken their toll.

The nearby Tudor Merchant's House was quite possibly the largest house of the royal manor during the 15th century. The house boasts highly decorated medieval workmanship and the sophisticated building techniques confirm that the property held high status.

It was probably here that the wife of Charles I, Queen Henrietta Maria, stayed on her way back from Yorkshire where she had gathered troops for the Royalist faction in the English Civil War. The devoutly Catholic Queen arrived at Kings Norton in July 1643 with around 5,500 men and probably spent the night in what is called the Queen's Room, while her troops camped on land behind the church. The lane here is still called Camp Lane.

Now fully restored Saint Nicolas Place is providing a memorable venue for education, community, private and corporate events..

For information about guided tours and admission please see our Heritage section