Saint Nicolas Place

So, St. Nicolas Place was another ‘stumbled upon’ scenario today. I love the fact that I stumbled upon the largest collection of medieval buildings in the city, entirely by accident. I’m not sure that sort of thing happens every day…
Of course, the down side of these things being entirely haphazard is the fact that I didn’t coincide my accidental visit with the opening times, so the entire complex — which consists of the Tudor Merchant’s House, St. Nicolas’ Church and the Old Grammar School — was closed. However, as they are simply bang splat in the middle of Kings Norton, just off the Green, of course you can still wander around the complex, admiring the buildings from the outside. Which I greatly enjoyed doing. To be honest, that was perfect for me — there was enough information on the boards outside each building, and seeing as each element was very impressive externally, I’m not sure what more I’d have got out of going inside. They do do guided tours on Fridays and Saturdays, which I’m sure are worthwhile, and you’d find out more information on those. But I was happy to simply stroll around the Place, admiring the black and white Tudor frontages, the old stone church with its immense spire, a peaceful graveyard (yes, I have spent more time in Birmingham graveyards than average recently…) and the lovely little pathways that connect it all.
I have made a mental note to return when the buildings are actually open. Watch this space…