Council Services
St Andrews and Blackfriars Halls
This Grade I listed building dates back to the 14th century. It has been used regularly for civic occasions since 1544, when the first Mayor's feast was held for the inauguration of Henry Fuller. The Norwich Triennial Festival, the third oldest in the country, began here in 1824.
For more information about the history of The Halls visit www.standrewshall.co.uk and the interactive website www.norwichblackfriars.co.uk
Apart from their heritage and architectural qualities, the Halls provide a unique setting for conferences, weddings, concerts and meetings. The maximum capacity is 1200 people.
The Crypt Cafe is open to the public for hot meals, sandwiches and refreshments.
Halls for hire
Did you know that anyone can hire St Andrews and Blackfriars Halls?
For organisers seeking a venue with a quiet and peaceful setting, there can be few more unusual and fascinating places to stage virtually any type of activity. This historic complex has the flexibility of four unique areas. They can be used separately or in combinations to meet the most exacting demands.
St Andrews Hall
St Andrews Hall has a seating capacity of 900 and with its high hammer-beamed roof, splendid arched columns and maple floor makes a fine setting for banquets, dinner dances, concerts, fashion shows, antique fairs, conferences, exhibitions and even sporting events.
Blackfriars Hall
Blackfriars Hall - a smaller hall with a seating capacity of 370, offering a quite different atmosphere, with oak panelling and beautifully proportioned windows arching to the lofty roof. Ideal for smaller conferences, concerts or banquets for up to 250 diners.
The Crypt
The Crypt - with its brick vaulted ceiling dating back to around 1300 this space has an inviting atmosphere, making it an attractive setting for evening functions, together with Beckett’s Chapel it offers capacity for 80 patrons. During the day from Monday to Saturday The Crypt is used as a café.
The Cloisters
The Cloisters - have been sympathetically restored to provide a reception, display area or a breakout area for large functions. They are also popular for weekly antique and craft markets (Wednesday and Saturday respectively).
A choice of syndicate, seminar and reception rooms are also available.
Excellent car parking and hotel accommodation and all the facilities of the city centre are close at hand, making it a wonderful base for both business and pleasure usage.
If you are interested in hiring any part of our Halls please speak to a hall keeper or the office staff during your visit. Alternatively you can call the halls team on 01603 628477 or email us via the halls manager at thehalls@norwich.gov.uk
Events
The Halls have a full and exciting programme of events throughout the year, including the Norfolk and Norwich Festival and the ever popular beer festival.
For up to date information about the events visit www.standrewshall.co.uk/Events
Weddings
Both St Andrew s Hall and Blackfriars Hall are licensed for civil marriages.
To find out more about ceremonies and celebrations at The Halls visit www.standrewshall.co.uk/Weddings
Antique and collectors fair
Every Wednesday in The Cloisters there is an antique and collectors fair, open from 8am to 4pm. To book a stall or for more information call Gary of Barnes Auctioneers on 01603 304337 or visit www.standrewshall.co.uk/The-Cloisters
Contact details for The Halls
For further information or to book a hall please contact the halls team:
t: 01603 628477
e: thehalls@norwich.gov.uk
f: 01603 762182
St Andrews and Blackfriars Halls, St Andrew's Plain, Norwich, NR3 1AU.
