Perrott's Folly
Image: Wikimedia Commons
Perrott's Folly is a striking 18th-century tower in the Edgbaston area of Birmingham, United Kingdom, long nicknamed "The Observatory."
About Perrott's Folly
Standing 29 metres (96 feet) tall, Perrott's Folly is a Grade II* listed building also known as The Monument or The Observatory. While its name and appearance evoke astronomy, it is primarily a historic tower rather than a working astronomical observatory today.
History
The tower was built in 1758, making it one of the older landmarks in the Edgbaston district of Birmingham, and its listed status reflects its architectural and historical significance.
Location & getting there
Perrott's Folly stands in Edgbaston, Birmingham, in the United Kingdom, at grid reference SP047862. It's a distinctive landmark within the city, easily identified by its tall, narrow silhouette.
Visiting Perrott's Folly
As a listed historic structure rather than a public observatory, access may be limited; check locally in Birmingham for any current opening arrangements before visiting.
See your named star from here
Even where a site is more monument than telescope, the idea behind naming a star travels with you — look up your star's coordinates in our star catalogue and find a working observatory nearby to view it.
Opening hours and public-visit programs vary by season. Check Google Maps for current times before you travel.
