Birdsall House has been in the same family since it was built in the 1540’s. The first Birdsall House was a much smaller Tudor style house and was enlarged and developed into the existing Georgian style in three stages across the 18th and 19th centuries. The Willoughby family originally came from Nottinghamshire and built Wollaton Hall, now in the centre of Nottingham, and the two properties had run alongside each other for generations.  In 1923 the family had to sell Wollaton Hall to pay death duties and Birdsall House became the main Willoughby home.  

James and Cara moved into Birdsall House in 2017, taking over from James’s grandparents. James worked as a Barrister before coming back to the estate full time. Cara was a graphic designer and milliner in London before moving to Yorkshire. The house had been principally a private family home but James and Cara have opened it up for commercial ventures, hosting and planning weddings and celebratory events, along with running an annual mountain bike marathon, classical concerts, filming and photo shoots. They live in the house with their three children and look forward to welcoming CLA members to Birdsall House.

Members will have the opportunity to take in and tour the beautiful surroundings and gardens of Birdsall House including a sculpted water garden, the lake and Twelfth century ruins  before being welcomed on a guided tour of Birdsall House which will include the Ballroom, Dining, Long Hall, Drawing room, the old kitchens and concluding with a newly completed nightclub.  The programme for the day will take the following order of events.

10.00 am  Registration served with teas and coffees in the Long Hall

10.30 am  Formal AGM held in the Dining Room

 Joe Evans Vice President

 Angus Hunter-Smart of Wrigleys Solicitors will provide a summary update

 Welcome to Birdsall Estate from The Hon James Willoughby

12.00 pm Pre- lunch drinks served in the Long Hall

12.30 pm Two course hot lunch served in the Ballroom

 Beef Bourguignon with Thyme Roast Potatoes
 Individual Pavlova, Chantilly Cream and Berries

2.00 pm   Tour of Birdsall House and Gardens finishing with the newly completed Nightclub

3.30 pm   Teas and coffees prior to departure in the Long Gallery

Please note: Priority is given to Yorkshire members only. We have a waiting list in operation for members outside this region. Please call the office to go on the waiting list on 01748 907070