Foundations for the Future: A Feasibility Study for the Golden Lion

Tucked away in Birmingham’s Cannon Hill Park stands a hidden piece of the city’s medieval past. The Golden Lion is a rare 16th-century timber-framed building; originally built in Deritend and moved to the park in 1911 by the Birmingham Archaeological Society to save it from demolition. Over a century later, the building itself is now at serious risk.

Empty and unused for over 40 years, the Grade II-listed Golden Lion has deteriorated significantly. With growing concerns about structural failure, vandalism, and arson, Birmingham Conservation Trust (BCT) was approached by Birmingham City Council and Historic England to lead efforts to secure the building’s future.

We were appointed as architect and lead consultant to deliver a feasibility study, an essential first step in safeguarding this historic site. Working with a team of specialist consultants, we assessed the condition of the structure, identified urgent repair needs, outlined a longer-term conservation strategy, and explored future uses that could bring the building back into public life.

The findings are now guiding the next steps. BCT has applied for £300,000 to fund the first stage of emergency repairs, and plans are underway to raise a further £425,000 for essential follow-up works.
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The Golden Lion is not just a rare survival of medieval Birmingham - it’s also a pioneering example of early conservation thinking. This new project builds on that legacy, combining thoughtful planning with collaborative heritage expertise to give the building a future.
The feasibility study marks the beginning of a longer journey, and we’re proud to have helped lay the foundations. The Golden Lion could once again play a role in the city’s cultural and community life - an inspiring reminder of what thoughtful conservation can achieve.