Stuart

Home for the rich

Stately living in grand mansions began in Tudor and Stuart times. Aston Hall, like many such houses, was built to show the importance of its owner. It was grand enough to welcome a king - Charles I can be seen just leaving after an overnight stay

There was an interest now in architectural style and decorative features. The large glass windows and lots of chimneys proclaimed wealth. There was still a large communal Hall at the centre of the house but also more private parlours and 'withdrawing rooms'.

Guests swept up an impressive, cantilevered staircase to be entertained in state rooms on the first floor. These rooms were linked to a magnificent Long Gallery running the length of the house.

The servants slept in the attics,and the 'service quarters' were to be found on the north side of the house. These included the kitchen, buttery, still room, pantry and so on.

Can you identify these features? Turrets, quoins, gable ends, chimneys, pinnacles, mullions and transoms.

Click the picture for an answer.