Built between 1826 and 1827, Beckford’s Tower is an extraordinary building that was once home to one of the greatest collections of books, furniture and art in Georgian England and now stands as the only surviving example of William Beckford’s great architectural achievements.

William Beckford’s ability to build, and to collect, was made possible by the wealth he inherited and continued to accumulate as a plantation slave owner, and through the compensation he received from the government following the abolition of slavery. This aspect of his life is explored within our museum displays and you can read more about it here.

A development grant awarded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund will enable us to re-examine the way in which we share the story of William Beckford’s links to slavery.

We have always sought, and continue to welcome views on this difficult subject. In doing so we believe that our presentation of the Beckford story can be continually improved and make a valuable contribution to understanding the evils of slavery and its role in British life of the 18th and early 19th centuries.

If you would like to be part of the consultation process for the ‘Our Tower’ project, do get in touch with us at tower@bptrust.org.uk – we would be delighted to hear from you.