We visit extraordinary historical gem in heart of Birmingham: A 400-year-old landmark with a colourful past

Nestled in Camp Hill, Birmingham, Stratford House stands as a remarkable example of half-timbered architecture, dating back to 1601.

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This historic structure, often mistaken for being named after the English Civil War, actually derives its name from the Camp family, who originally owned the land.

A House with a Story

Built for Bridget and Ambrose Rotton, Stratford House boasts an inscription of their initials on the beam above the front door - an enduring testament to its origins.

Over the centuries, the house has weathered multiple threats, from wartime bombs to demolition attempts.

Network Rail sought to demolish the building, first for railway sidings and later in the 1950s. Fortunately, these efforts were unsuccessful, and the house was preserved.

Changing Hands and Changing Purposes

Originally set amidst 20 acres of farmland, the house was home to livestock and rural life, a stark contrast to the bustling road systems that now surround it.

By the 1980s, Stratford House had taken on a new role as the site of a musical instrument repair company. It then became the headquarters of Network Records, a pivotal British music publishing company responsible for introducing Detroit house music to the UK.

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The building took an unexpected turn in 2015 when it became a swingers’ club known as The Tudor Lounge. The venue hosted themed nights, including ‘Leather and Lace’ events, and even featured a dungeon in the cellar.

The club gained notoriety when armed robbers stormed the premises, causing startled guests—many in various states of undress—to spill onto the main road, creating an unforgettable scene.

Later that year, a fire ravaged the building’s interior. Thankfully, the owners invested heavily in restoring the structure, ensuring its survival.

An Historical Oddity

One fascinating detail about Stratford House is its ‘insurance plate’—a relic from an era when fire services operated on a pay-first basis. In those times, firefighters would only extinguish a blaze for free if the building bore an insurance plate.

Otherwise, negotiations on the spot determined the cost of their services, much like modern roadside assistance.

Today, Stratford House stands as a symbol of resilience and transformation, its long history reflecting Birmingham’s ever-evolving landscape.