Horology Headquarters and Museum Listed for Sale After Over 50 Years

A Nottinghamshire country residence, which has served as the base for a timekeeping museum and the national organization for horologists for over five decades, is now on the market. Upton Hall, situated close to Newark-on-Trent, has been the location for both the British Horological Institute (BHI) and the Museum of Timekeeping since 1973. According to Gary Williams, the chairman of the BHI, the Grade II-listed property has become excessively costly to upkeep. The property is being offered for sale at £2.3 million, while the organizations seek an alternative location. Horology refers to the discipline of time and its measurement. Mr. Williams indicated that the BHI aims to offer increased training opportunities for horologists, but current expenditures on building maintenance are excessive. He informed BBC Radio Nottingham, “It’s a very difficult decision,” adding, “We’re now in a situation where the hall is requiring far too much upkeep which is too expensive.” He continued, “We should be providing services like training and support to horologists, not… keeping maintenance going on a Grade II-listed building.” He further elaborated, “There’s lots and lots of little jobs and when you add it up. To get the building to a sustainable state you’re looking at a fair few million pounds – that’s a fair few million pounds we don’t have.” Established in 1858, the BHI, which became distinct from the Museum of Timekeeping over ten years ago, assists horologists with the repair and creation of clocks and watches. Mr. Williams stated that they are seeking a new location capable of accommodating workshops for the organization’s members. He also mentioned: “We rather like the building but can’t afford the upkeep. Unless somebody is going to come along with a rather large chequebook and sign off on a major refurbishment then we have no option.” He continued, “[We need] somewhere with more manageable maintenance costs but more closely aligned to our needs.” He concluded by saying, “We can’t predict how long it will take until we get an acceptable offer but we know that we can’t stay where we are indefinitely so we’re getting the ball rolling.” For updates, follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or through WhatsApp at 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.