In the 19th Century, the ‘House of Assemblies’ was where local gentry had to...
This bright, authentic Georgian room boasts large crystal chandeliers and polished wood...
A tranquil garden area overlooked by the large Georgian windows of the Noverre Suite....
This beautiful and elegant room was extensively damaged by fire in 1995 and has been...
The large windows fill this room with natural light, making it an ideal meeting room for...
Situated on the first floor at the front of the building the Kent, Sexton & Pierce...
Situated on the first floor at the front of the building the Kent, Sexton & Pierce...
Situated on the first floor at the front of the building the Kent, Sexton & Pierce...
Exquisite dining in period surroundings – this large and welcoming area is named...
Ivory's Cafe Bar is a comfortable area with comfy leather sofas. A fully licensed bar...
This spacious room is perfectly positioned for any exhibition - on the ground floor of...
A ‘white wall’ gallery space suitable for all types of exhibition and...
Secure wall cabinets situated on either side of the corridor that leads from the Assembly...
The car park provides ample parking for visitors using the facilities of the House with a...
Green parasols provide welcome shade and wrought iron chairs offer seating from which to...
Norwich. Book and DVD available at £4.95 at Front of House Reception
750 years of history!
This beautiful Georgian Grade I listed building enjoys a tranquil and peaceful setting in the centre of the historic city of Norwich, Norfolk.
The present Georgian building you see today was designed in 1754 by the renowned English architect Sir Thomas Ivory and was used as a ‘House of Assemblies’ for the gentry of Norwich.
Prior to this date the site was occupied by a Chapel and Hospice of St Mary’s in the Field founded in 1248. The Cloisters (now partly covered by the courtyard) and Crypt were built in 1278. The crypt is still part of the present day cellar.
In 1548 the Chapel and College were surrendered to the Crown and the buildings destroyed.The residents of Blickling Hall, now a National Trust property, the Hobarts built a townhouse on the site in 1609.
From 1805 – 1876 the house played host to a variety of events and famous people. In 1805 a Grand Ball was held to celebrate Nelson’s ‘Glorious Victory off Cape Trafalgar’. The house was decked out with flags and banners. Some of the original banner fixings are still to be seen on the balcony of the Ivory’s Restaurant.
In 1826 Madame Tussaud returned to Norwich with her waxwork display of Sovereigns, Princes, Queens and Princesses, Heroes and Statesmen, Poets and Divines. The Hungarian composer Franz Listz gave a concert at 1.30am in the morning in the Music Room!
From 1876 – 1939 the building was used by the Girls Public Day School (Norwich High School Girls).
From 1939 – 1945 Oliver Messel, appointed by the War Office used the building as a camouflage school. He was also responsible for encouraging the refurbishment of the House and went on to become a famous costumer and theatrical set designer.
In 1950 after considerable refurbishment a leading Norwich shoe manufacturer, Mr H J Sexton re-opened the House in May. He formed the H J Sexton Arts Trust.
In 1995 a fire destroyed the main roof and severely damaged the House. However, with the support of local businesses s and friends in Assembly House reopened in 1997.
If you are looking for a speaker for your Society or Club for 2008 or perhaps a tour of the building (from 10-25 people) then please contact us on 01603 626402.
The History of The Assembly House
Andrew Stephenson
Edited by Jan King
A5 Paperback Price £4.95 plus P&P
