Wollaton Hall

Wollaton Hall is an Elizabethan country house and natural history museum in Nottingham that extends across four limestone floors. A large central hall rises through the building with ornate stonework, while a symmetrical tower stands at each corner of the structure.

Robert Smythson designed this estate between 1580 and 1588 for Sir Francis Willoughby with advanced Renaissance elements. The Willoughby family occupied the house until the 20th century before it was transferred to the city.

The name comes from a medieval village that once occupied these lands before the estate was built. Today visitors experience the rooms as a museum with natural history collections displayed throughout the historic halls.

Entry to the house and exhibitions is free, with typical afternoon opening times. The grounds suit walking, while the interior rooms offer shelter during poor weather.

The building served as the setting for Wayne Manor in the 2012 Batman film The Dark Knight Rises. This film role brought the estate international recognition beyond architectural circles.

Location: City of Nottingham

Architects: Robert Smythson

Fee: Yes

Operator: Nottingham City Museums and Galleries

Part of: Nottingham Museums

Address: Wollaton Park, Wollaton, Nottingham NG8 2AE

Phone: +441158763100

Email: wollaton.hall@nottinghamcity.gov.uk

Website: https://wollatonhall.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 52.94790,-1.20966

Latest update: December 13, 2025 18:11