Highfield House

Highfield House is a Grade II listed building on the University of Nottingham campus, featuring architectural elements from the late 18th century. Today it serves the university as an academic facility with restricted public access due to its educational functions.

The building was constructed in 1798 by architect William Wilkins the Elder for Joseph Lowe, a wool merchant and Nottingham Mayor. It later became part of the University of Nottingham and served as official housing for senior university staff for much of the 20th century.

The building played an important role in scientific study, hosting equipment for weather and celestial observation during the 19th century. This scholarly use shaped how locals viewed the house as a center for learning and discovery.

The building is located within the University of Nottingham campus grounds and access is limited due to ongoing academic activities. Visitors should be prepared to respect campus boundaries and ask permission before exploring or photographing the exterior.

From 1930 until the 1990s, the house served as the official residence for the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nottingham, making it a center of university leadership. This extended period of use as an executive home gave it a distinctive place in the university's institutional memory.

Location: City of Nottingham

GPS coordinates: 52.93721,-1.19733

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:04