Earlier Houses: There was an earlier house on the site that was demolished in the mid-18th century and replaced by the current house.

House & Family History: The 18th century poet William Shenstone was born at The Leasowes.

Collections: Between 1897 and 1907 The Leasowes was home to Anstey College of Physical Education. After the college decamped the house and some surrounding land was purchased by Halesowen Golf Club.

Comments: In April 1786 John Adams, later second president of the United States, visited Leasowe and other houses in the area. After his visits he wrote in his diary "Stowe, Hagley, and Blenheim, are superb; Woburn, Caversham, and the Leasowes are beautiful. Wotton is both great and elegant, though neglected."

Garden & Outbuildings: The grounds that Shenstone laid out at The Leasowes drew many famous visitors in the 18th century, including Mathew Boulton, William Pitt, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson. In 1934 the local council purchased the parkland of The Leasowes and opened it as a public park, which it remains today (some of the parkland is leased to Halesowen Golf Club).

House Listed: Grade I

Park Listed: Grade I

Past Seat / Home of: SEATED AT EARLIER HOUSE: William Shenstone, until 1763. SEATED AT CURRENT HOUSE: Edward Horne, 1776-89. Major Francis Halliday, 1789-94. Edward Butler Hartopp, 1795-1800. Charles Hamilton, 1800-07. Matthias Attwood, early 19th century.

Current Ownership Type: Government

Primary Current Ownership Use: Club

Ownership Details: Since 1907 the house has been the clubhouse of Halesowen Golf Club

House Open to Public: Grounds Only

Phone: 01215-013-606

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://halesowengc.co.uk/

Historic Houses Member: No