St. Andrew's and Blackfriars' Halls, Norwich

Saint Andrew's Hall and the adjoining Blackfriars' Hall form one of Norwich's most remarkable heritage sites and are part of the prestigious Norwich 12. Dating back to the 14th century, this Grade I listed complex is celebrated as the most complete friary structure surviving in England. Built with flint, the halls include Saint Andrew’s Hall as their centerpiece, alongside Blackfriars’ Hall, a crypt, a chapel, and cloisters. Today, the site serves as a versatile venue for conferences, weddings, concerts, beer festivals, and other gatherings, with a maximum capacity of 1,200 people.

The site’s history is deeply rooted in Norwich’s religious past. Initially occupied by the Friars of the Sack in the mid-13th century, the land was later transferred to the Dominican Order (Black Friars) in 1307. This transition, authorized by royal license, required the Dominicans to care for the last surviving member of the declining Friars of the Sack.

In 1413, a devastating fire destroyed the original church and buildings. The current structure, including Saint Andrew’s Hall as the nave, was completed in 1470. During the Reformation, the complex was saved by the City Corporation, which purchased it from the crown for civic use. It has since seen varied roles, from a place of worship and a mint to a workhouse and a venue for public events.

Saint Andrew’s and Blackfriars’ Halls have hosted significant civic and cultural occasions, including the first Mayor’s feast in 1544 and the Norwich Triennial Festival, which began in 1824 and is now the third oldest music festival in England. These halls stand as a testament to Norwich’s historical resilience and cultural legacy.