The British Horological Institute, based at Upton Hall, is looking to make some exciting changes, and they want to find out what readers think about their plans.
Upton Hall could be described as one of the county’s hidden gems. It’s a nineteenth century building set in a formal garden, all within the conservation area of the village of Upton. Since 1972, the hall has been the home of the British Horological Institute and its collection of over 4000 clocks and watches, the oldest of which dates from the 1640s. The Institute also runs courses in clock and watch making and a new café has recently opened on the site. However, the rest of the building and the museum aren’t open to the public at present.
The BHI is committed to staying at Upton Hall, but with maintenance and repair costs increasing they can only afford to do so by making the hall, the grounds and the Institute sustainable into the future. Plans are still in the early stages, but could potentially include a new museum based around clocks, watches and time keeping, a children’s play area, an extension to the café, a wedding and events venue to generate income, and a new training facility for horology students. There might even be a village shop on the site.
Before any work is done, the BHI is carrying out some consultation, and is very keen to consult with people from the local area. You can find the online survey to add you views at : www.surveymonkey.com/s/BHI2
All respondents will be entered into a prize draw and one lucky winner will receive a free breakfast or lunch for two people at the Clock House Café at Upton Hall to the value of £25. Surveys should be completed by Monday 7th July.