Project

Stablecroft: A New Path for Nature and Visitors

A view of the grassed Stablecroft at Moseley Old Hall, with the new all-year accessible paths being dug out; two yellow diggers are in the background and heaps of soil line the area of the new path. — New accessible paths works being in the Stablecroft at Moseley Old Hall | © National Trust/Arun Chand

An exciting transformation is coming to Moseley Old Hall! The Stablecroft Project will introduce new paths, native plantings, and a heritage orchard to enhance both accessibility and biodiversity.

We are excited to begin this long-anticipated project, enhancing the landscape for both nature and visitors. With improved pathways, native plantings, a wildflower mound, and a heritage orchard, the Stablecroft Project will enrich the visitor experience while boosting biodiversity.

While some areas may be temporarily closed, these improvements will make Moseley Old Hall an even more vibrant and welcoming place for future generations.

What the project is

After extensive planning and securing permissions, work on the Stablecroft Project will begin in February 2025. The project will feature new accessible, hard paths across the meadow, linking the tree hide and a newly installed boardwalk along the pond’s edge.

Additionally, over 3,000 native British trees and hedging plants will be introduced, including species such as Hawthorn, Hazel, Holly, Crab Apple, Wayfaring Tree, and Guelder Rose. These will provide vital support for wildlife and biodiversity.

A key feature of the project is the ‘Beeseye View’—a raised wildflower-covered mound with a bisecting path, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature from a unique perspective. A new orchard with 48 heritage fruit trees will also be planted, preserving traditional fruit-growing varieties and enriching the landscape.

A view of a worn path over grass, leading through a wooden gate into the Stablecroft at Moseley Old Hall — The project will see new, all-year accessible paths put into the Stablecroft | © National Trust/Arun Chand

How the work may affect your visit

To bring these fantastic changes to life, some areas of the property may be temporarily closed for safety reasons. The project is expected to take 3-4 weeks to complete, with tree and hedge planting scheduled for early March. Admission prices will be lowered during this time to reflect reduced access.

We appreciate your patience and support as we work to enhance Moseley Old Hall for future generations. Though the meadow may look raw at first, as the landscape matures, it will become a breathtaking natural attraction and a vital asset for conservation and visitor enjoyment.

Stay tuned for further updates and thank you for being part of this exciting journey.