Perrott's Folly
An 18th-century tower in Birmingham, rumored to have inspired Tolkien's 'Two Towers.' A unique piece of history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Perrott's Folly
Best Time
Higher chance of events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 18th-century tower in Birmingham, rumored to have inspired Tolkien's 'Two Towers.' A unique piece of history.
"A historic folly with a debated Tolkien link, offering a glimpse into Birmingham's past."
Check for Events
Interior access is rare; look for community art or architecture events hosted by Re.Future Collective. :calendar:
Tolkien Link Debated
While a popular theory, direct evidence linking Perrott's Folly to Tolkien's 'Two Towers' is scarce. :book:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tower Itself
Edgbaston, Birmingham
A 29-meter tall 18th-century folly, rumored to inspire Tolkien's 'Two Towers.'
Edgbaston Waterworks Tower
Near Perrott's Folly
Another historic tower nearby, often mentioned alongside Perrott's Folly as a potential Tolkien inspiration.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Tolkien's Inspiration or Just a Tower?
Limited Access, Big Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check for Events
Interior access is rare; look for community art or architecture events hosted by Re.Future Collective. :calendar:
Tolkien Link Debated
While a popular theory, direct evidence linking Perrott's Folly to Tolkien's 'Two Towers' is scarce. :book:
Combine with Waterworks Tower
Visit the nearby Edgbaston Waterworks Tower for a double dose of historic architecture. :camerawithflash:
Exterior Appreciation
The tower is fenced, so enjoy its impressive 18th-century architecture from the outside. :statueofliberty:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check for Events
Interior access is rare; look for community art or architecture events hosted by Re.Future Collective. :calendar:
Tolkien Link Debated
While a popular theory, direct evidence linking Perrott's Folly to Tolkien's 'Two Towers' is scarce. :book:
Combine with Waterworks Tower
Visit the nearby Edgbaston Waterworks Tower for a double dose of historic architecture. :camerawithflash:
Exterior Appreciation
The tower is fenced, so enjoy its impressive 18th-century architecture from the outside. :statueofliberty:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Perrott's Folly is a historically significant 18th-century tower, often discussed for its potential inspiration for Tolkien's 'Two Towers.' While interior access is rare and the connection to Tolkien is debated, visitors appreciate its unique architecture and the opportunity to see a piece of Birmingham's heritage. It's a quick visit best enjoyed from the outside.
"Perrott's Folly is a 29-metre (96-foot) tall tower, built in 1758. It has been suggested that the towers of Perrott's Folly and Edgbaston Waterworks (just round the corner and also worth a look) may have influenced references to towers in the writings of J. R. R. Tolkien, who lived nearby as a child.
It's an interesting place to visit - although access inside seems limited to the occasional community access project. I'd definitely take a tour if it was available and check out the views which must be spectacular."
Paul Mousley
"Built in the open Rotton Park by John Perrott in 1758. Perrott's Folly, also known as The Monument, or The Observatory, is a 29-metre (96-foot) tall tower. It is Grade II* listed.
Perrott's Folly, alongside the Edgbaston Waterworks tower (along the road), is believed to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien's Two Towers in The Lord of the Rings.
The tower is now managed by Re.Future Collective, a Birmingham based Arts and Architecture Collective."
James Currie
"Nice to check out if you are in the area but there is not much to actually see. It has fences and barriers around it. You can still imagine how it inspired Tolkien."
Theodora A
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Perrott's Folly is located in Edgbaston, Birmingham. It's accessible by car, with parking potentially available nearby, or via public transport. Several bus routes serve the Edgbaston area. Check local transport apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
The folly is situated in the Ladywood/Edgbaston divide. While it's a prominent structure, it is fenced off, so look for its distinctive silhouette.
If you are in the Edgbaston or Ladywood areas, walking is a pleasant option. Be aware of traffic and pedestrian safety.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required to view Perrott's Folly from the outside as it is fenced off. Access inside is limited and usually only available during special community events.
As the exterior is always visible, there are no set opening hours. However, interior access is restricted and depends on organized events.
The grounds around Perrott's Folly are generally accessible, but the tower itself is fenced off. Interior access is rare and typically for specific events.
Viewing the exterior of Perrott's Folly is free. If there are special events with entry fees, these will be advertised by the managing collective.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the folly from various angles around the perimeter fence. The surrounding area offers different perspectives, especially with the sky as a backdrop. 
Interior photography is only possible if you gain access during a special event. Otherwise, focus on exterior shots.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful lighting on the tower. Midday sun can be harsh.
🎫 🤔 History & Lore
It's a popular theory that Perrott's Folly and the nearby Edgbaston Waterworks Tower inspired Tolkien's 'Two Towers,' as he lived in Birmingham. However, concrete evidence is lacking, and some scholars debate this connection.
Perrott's Folly was constructed in 1758 by John Perrott.
Built as a folly or ornamental tower, it stands 29 meters tall and is a Grade II* listed building. It's now managed by Re.Future Collective for arts and architecture projects.
The tower is currently managed by Re.Future Collective, a Birmingham-based arts and architecture collective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing it as a quest to find one of Tolkien's 'Two Towers.' The nearby Edgbaston Waterworks Tower adds to the adventure. Keep expectations realistic about interior access, focusing instead on the exterior view and the stories it might inspire.
📚 Tolkien Enthusiasts
While interior access is limited, take time to walk around the perimeter and imagine the views Tolkien might have had. Visiting the adjacent Edgbaston Waterworks Tower is also highly recommended to get the full picture of the potential inspirations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tolkien Connection: Fact or Fiction?
However, it's crucial to note that this connection is largely speculative. While the visual resemblance and geographical proximity are compelling, there's no definitive written proof from Tolkien himself confirming these towers as direct inspirations. Some literary scholars argue that the 'Two Towers' might represent other dualistic concepts or locations. Nevertheless, for many fans, the allure of this potential link is enough to make a visit to Perrott's Folly a pilgrimage.
Whether or not it directly inspired Tolkien, Perrott's Folly remains a significant historical landmark. Its unique architecture and the enduring mystery surrounding its literary connections make it a point of interest for visitors to Birmingham.
Architecture and Current Use
Currently, the tower is managed by Re.Future Collective, an arts and architecture collective based in Birmingham. They aim to utilize the space for creative projects and community engagement. While direct public access inside the tower is limited, the collective occasionally hosts events, workshops, or open days, offering a rare chance to experience the interior and potentially enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Visitors can appreciate the folly's exterior from the surrounding public areas, which are fenced off for preservation. The surrounding area also offers views of the Edgbaston Waterworks Tower, another structure often cited in discussions about Tolkien's inspirations.
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