16th Century Golden Lion, Birmingham At Risk

The 500 year-old Golden Lion in Birmingham has not been in use for more than 20 years.

It has significantly deteriorated over time, and it currently lies in ruin.

It's thought to be one of very few timber-framed buildings in existence in Birmingham.

It’s believed that it was constructed sometime between 1570 and 1590, as the guildhall or associated building for the Chapel of St John, Deritend.

Over the year, this historic structure was used by the army and even for bare knuckle boxing.

In 1909, a movement emerged to protect the Golden Lion from demolition.

A letter to the Birmingham Daily Post criticised the town councillors for their failure to prevent the decline of this "relic of old Brum."

The letter read: "It is a strange perspective on the responsibilities of our councillors that… a hundred or two is begrudged to preserve a unique specimen of our forefathers' consummate taste and skill, one that would delight many future generations and bring perpetual honour to those who preserved it."

Thanks to the efforts of the Birmingham and Warwickshire Archaeological Society, the Golden Lion was spared from demolition.

The society funded its relocation to Cannon Hill Park in 1911 to preserve its heritage.

Following its reconstruction, it was predominantly used as a cricket pavilion.

In recent decades, however, it fell into disrepair and was fenced off due to safety concerns.

Sadly, for the second time in its history, it was at risk of destruction… until now (August 2025).

On August 7 2025, Historic England announced that ‘We have awarded £15 million in repair grants to save 37 much-loved historic sites across England for future generations.’

This includes the historic Golden Lion, which has been awarded a much needed £344,265.

The funding scheme, delivered by the organisation in collaboration with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, seeks to safeguard England’s built heritage from permanent loss.

If they are able to secure the necessary funding through grants and donations, it is hoped that restoration work on site will start in 2025.

Reacting to the news on social media, someone said: “Congratulations Historic England.

”I agree with Chris that the funding seems insufficient. The intent from HE is critical.”

Another person added: “I have watched it deteriorate over thirty years.

”Great news that there is now an attempt to maintain the building.

It’s hoped that the initiative will boost economic growth and also new opportunities for people in some of England's most disadvantaged areas.

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