Heritage Centre (Soon to open)

The Great Yarmouth Community Trust purchased the Priory building in 2002. The building had been vacant for many years and had fallen into serious disrepair. As a Grade I listed building, and one of the few remaining Benedictine monasteries still standing, the Trust decided to take the challenge of returning this wonderful and important building to daily community use.

Building History

The Priory was built in 1106 by Herbert de Losinga, the first Bishop of Norwich. It was built to prove his worthiness to the Pope after purchasing his title from his father, Robert de Losinga, Bishop of Hereford. Much of the original structure survives in the form of the Noble Hall, adjacent to the Cafe.

The Priory's first inhabitants were the Benedictine monks, who served the local community with faith, spiritual and medicinal healing. The surrounding area is known as Priory Gardens and this is where the herbal medicines were grown.

Over the years the Priory has enjoyed many different uses: a stable for Cromwell's Army, an arsenal, the town hall and, more recently, a school. It has also entertained many important visitors to the town, including King Richard, Mary Tudor, Lord Burleigh and the Earl of Leicester - many of whom dined in the Noble Hall.

The building boasts, not only one of the last remaining Monastic great halls, but also a fine example of Victorian re-roofing - come and take a look.

Future Plans

Future plans include the restoration of the great hall (which will also house the Priory Heritage Centre) and a new reception area.

With help, funding and the ongoing support of the local community all these aspirations can be achieved and the building will remain a treasure in the heart of Great Yarmouth for many centuries to come.