In the early 15th century the market town of Kings Lynn was also a port of considerable importance.
Wool and agricultural produce from East Anglia were traded across the North Sea and to Scandinavia. Over sixty guilds flourished in the town during this period and the Guild of St George was one of the most influential.
The substantial building they constructed between 1410 and 1420 is the largest surviving medieval guildhall in England. On the upper floor is the Great Hall which is 101 feet long by 29 feet wide. The size and decoration of the building is an indication of the wealth and status of the Guild.
The Guildhall has had a varied history.
In 1547 the guilds were disbanded by Henry VIII, who disapproved of their religious associations. The building became a courthouse, corn exchange, public meeting house, weapons store, granary and warehouse.
However, the Guildhall's strongest affiliation was with the theatre. The earliest recorded production at the Guildhall was staged in 1442. For some centuries after, theatrical productions were performed in the Great Hall. Even Shakespeare is said to have performed on the Guildhall's stage.
In 1766 a Georgian theatre was constructed within the hall. This has recently been reconstructed with seating for 367 people and is used for recitals, concerts and performances and an annual Festival of the Arts.
The building as a whole is used as an arts centre.
Today St George's Guildhall is in the care of the National Trust.
Despite its changes of use many of the original 15th century features survive.
These include the Great Hall's open timber roof and the five massive buttresses that support the north wall. There are also traces of the Georgian theatre.
The Tudor house adjoining the Guildhall and a long row of medieval warehouses sloping down to the River Ouse also belong to the National Trust.
2008: all year Mon-Fri. Closed Good Fri, Bank Hol Mons 24 Dec-1st Monday in Jan. Tel. for opening dates and times for Guildhall. Not open on days when performances in the theatre. Last entry 30mins before close.
Tel: 01553 765565 St George's Guildhall Website
