Published: Tuesday, 20th July 2021
One of the most recognisable buildings in King’s Lynn is reopening its doors to visitors every Wednesday and Saturday, thanks to a group of enthusiastic volunteers.
Overlooking the harbour, the 17th-century Custom House building has been closed for a few years. Now, thanks to King’s Lynn Civic Society working with the borough council, the building will open again, from 10am - 3pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays, starting 21 July 2021.
Alison Gifford, Chair of King’s Lynn Civic Society, said: “Around 10 of our volunteers are making sure that residents and visitors to the area can once again enjoy coming and exploring inside this landmark building.
“On the ground floor visitors will see an exhibition about the Civic Society and our contribution to the town. You can see aspects of planning and the heritage action zone.
“Upstairs there are details about the Custom House and Henry Bell who built it in 1683 as a merchants’ exchange. Some of the history of Margery Kempe, a local figure from history with an international reputation. There are also pictures from local artist Emily Chapman being displayed.
“We plan to open the building every Wednesday and Saturday from now until Heritage Open Day on 12 September. This is a chance for people to discover that the King’s Lynn Civic Society is much more than meetings and talks, we enjoy doing practical activities that invite others to enjoy the rich heritage of our town.”
Cllr Elizabeth Nockolds, Heritage and Culture Champion at the borough council, added: “I’m delighted to see the doors of the Custom House building open again. I would encourage people to go and explore this iconic building and I thank Alison and the Civic Society for volunteering to open it up to the public.”
From 21 July 2021 the Custom House will open every Wednesday and Saturday between 10am and 3pm.