Balsall Preceptory

Balsall Preceptory is a medieval commandery in Solihull featuring stone buildings including an original medieval hall and the Church of St Mary with thick walls and arched windows. The estate contains multiple structures spanning different periods that show how the site developed over the centuries.

Roger de Mowbray gave the manor to the Knights Templars during King Stephen's reign, and they managed the estate until their dissolution in 1324. After the fall of the Templar order, the site passed through various owners and underwent different uses.

The Foundation of Lady Katherine Leveson cares for the site and carries on a charitable tradition started in 1674 to help widows and support local education. This long-running mission shows how the place has served the community across centuries.

Access to the site is limited, but visitors can tour the Old Hall during Heritage Open Days in September and view archaeological finds including medieval pottery and glass. It helps to check ahead for opening times since the place is not open to the public on a regular basis.

Eight resident Templars were arrested at this location during the suppression of their order, including William de Warewyk who served as chaplain. This dramatic episode marks one of the lesser-known moments in English Templar history.