A brief history and key chronology in the life of Byrkley
The impressive and unique Byrkley Lodge which now provides the setting for Byrkley Garden Centre, was the dream and passion of one of the region’s most prodigious sons - Hamar Alfred Bass (July 30th 1842 – April 8th 1898).
The famous brewer, MP for Tamworth (1878-1885), MP for West Staffordshire (1885-1898) and mad keen cricketer (he played for and was senior member of the MCC) presided over the design and construction of his great country manor - Byrkley Lodge - from 1886 to 1891. Set behind high Victorian brick walls the Lodge now provides a graceful and tranquil setting for Byrkley Garden Centre. The name Byrkley is actually a derivation of the family de Berkeley of Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire. In the 13th century there was a hunting lodge on this site. Thomas de Berkeley was keeper of the Tutbury ward and occasionally resided here.
More recently, the building has been sensitively developed to provide a unique setting for one of the UK’s most exciting and popular Garden Centres.
1399
Duchy of Lancaster takes over the estate.
1754
Lord Townsend leased Byrkley Lodge and rebuilt it in elegant style. This house was demolished to make way for the Bass dwelling.
Late 1700s
Marquis of Donegal purchased Byrkley Lodge.
1795
Edward Sneyd purchased Byrkley Lodge.
1850
Michael Bass rented Byrkley Lodge from Emma Sneyd.
1887-1891
A new Byrkley Lodge built by Hamar Bass.
The original architect's wooden model of Bass' house still survives from the 1880's and is proudly displayed in our reception area.
The planned North Wing was never built and the servants' quarters had only two floors.
1952
Byrkley Lodge demolished on Sir William Bass' death. Stables remained until 1992.
1986
Byrkley Garden Centre opens in the walled garden, preserving
centuries of gardening tradition for future generations.
1991
New Thomas De Byrkley Tea Room and Carvery opened by
garden expert Howard Drury.
1999
Byrkley Garden Centre extended and refurbished - one of the country’s leading garden centres.
2001
The parkland is bought by the Football Association for their
"Centre of Excellence" with the old lodge site being the
accommodation and indoor training.
2007
Byrkley Garden Centre undertakes major facelift and expansion of facilities to provide an even more rewarding visitor experience.
New restaurant and dining areas developed and retail area enlarged. Increased external planting and outdoor interests area added. Byrkley provides direct employment for more than 120 local people and indirectly probably another 50.
