Perrott's Folly: Birmingham's Historic Tower and Tolkien Inspiration
An 18th-century tower in Birmingham, steeped in history and Tolkien lore, now a cultural beacon for art and community.
Perrott's Folly is a striking 29-metre-high tower built in 1758 by local landowner John Perrott in Edgbaston, Birmingham. Originally constructed as a hunting park observatory and possibly a private entertainment venue, it later served as a weather station. The tower is famously linked to J.R.R. Tolkien, who lived nearby and may have drawn inspiration from it for his iconic Two Towers. Now owned by a charity, it is preserved as a Grade II* listed building and occasionally opens for tours and cultural events.
A brief summary to Perrott's Folly
- 44 Waterworks Rd, Birmingham, B16 9AL, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check ahead for occasional public tours or events to explore the interior and learn about its restoration.
- Visit nearby Edgbaston Water Works to see the other tower that inspired Tolkien’s Two Towers.
- Bring a camera for striking photos of the tower’s unique architecture, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the surrounding area involves some walking on uneven paths.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Number 11 or 63 bus from Birmingham city centre to the Waterworks Road stop near Perrott's Folly; journey time is approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules on weekends. A single fare costs around £2.50 GBP.
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Train and Walk
From Birmingham New Street Station, take a taxi or bus to Edgbaston area; the taxi ride takes about 15 minutes costing roughly £8-£12 GBP. Walking from the nearest bus stop involves uneven pavements and moderate inclines.
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Car
Driving to Perrott's Folly takes around 15-25 minutes from central Birmingham depending on traffic. Limited street parking is available nearby, so plan for a short walk. Parking is free but spaces can be scarce during peak hours.
Perrott's Folly location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Perrott's Folly
Origins and Architectural Purpose
Perrott's Folly was erected in 1758 by John Perrott, a landowner from Belbroughton, Worcestershire, who built the tower in the centre of his hunting park in what was then open countryside known as Rotton Park. While the exact purpose remains uncertain, it is widely believed to have functioned as an observatory and a fashionable venue for private entertaining. Some local lore speculates that it was built as a vantage point to watch over Perrott’s estate or even to spy on his wife, but these stories remain unconfirmed. The tower’s distinctive hexagonal upper structure rises above a square base, standing 29 metres tall and showcasing 18th-century brickwork techniques without the original bonding between the two brick skins, a feature that required later stabilization efforts.Preservation and Structural Challenges
By the late 20th century, Perrott's Folly faced severe structural risks, with engineers warning of potential collapse due to decayed oak beams and unstable brickwork. In 2005, the Birmingham Conservation Trust managed a critical restoration project funded by English Heritage, which involved replacing the rotted beams, grouting the tower’s brick skins to bind them securely, and repointing the masonry. These efforts have ensured the tower’s survival for at least another century. Despite these repairs, ongoing maintenance is essential, and the building remains on the Buildings At Risk Register. Ownership transferred in 2013 to the charity Trident Reach, which aims to convert the tower into a community space for art exhibitions and social events, emphasizing heritage through contemporary projects rather than mass tourism.Tolkien’s Local Landmark and Cultural Significance
Perrott's Folly holds a special place in literary history due to its association with J.R.R. Tolkien, who lived nearby in the early 20th century. Walking the Edgbaston area, Tolkien would have seen the Folly alongside the Victorian waterworks tower, inspiring the iconic Two Towers in his Lord of the Rings saga. This connection has attracted global interest and made the tower a key feature on Birmingham’s Tolkien Trail. The Folly’s mysterious silhouette and historic aura continue to captivate visitors and Tolkien enthusiasts alike.Community Engagement and Future Prospects
The charity managing Perrott's Folly envisions it as a vibrant community venue rather than a conventional tourist attraction. It has hosted various creative activities, including art exhibitions, gardening sessions, and architectural projects like the Re Future canopy installation. Occasional public tours offer glimpses into the tower’s history and restoration journey. However, significant fundraising remains necessary to realize its full potential as a cultural hub, with a target of £1 million for conversion and ongoing preservation.Setting and Visitor Experience
Situated at 44 Waterworks Road in Birmingham’s Edgbaston district, Perrott's Folly stands amidst a mix of urban and green spaces, offering a unique contrast between historic architecture and modern city life. Visitors approaching the tower can appreciate its commanding presence on the skyline and its role as a landmark of local heritage. The surrounding area includes other listed buildings and the nearby Edgbaston Water Works, enriching the historical context. While access inside is limited to special events, the tower’s exterior and grounds provide a compelling destination for cultural exploration and photography.Architectural Details and Visual Appeal
The tower’s design features a square base transitioning into a hexagonal upper section, constructed primarily from brick with no original internal ties between the brick layers, a rarity that complicated restoration. Its height and form make it a distinctive feature in Birmingham’s architectural landscape. The building’s Grade II* listing reflects its national importance and architectural interest. The Folly’s rustic brickwork and historic silhouette create an atmospheric and evocative presence, especially when viewed at sunrise or sunset, adding to its allure for photographers and history enthusiasts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Perrott's Folly
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An 18th-century tower in Birmingham, steeped in history and Tolkien lore, now a cultural beacon for art and community.
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The Button Factory
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
