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Market Place
Popular Meeting Place
During the 18th century Swaffham was a popular meeting place for neighbouring and visiting gentry.
The Crown Inn and The Greyhound were the main assembly points until 1778 when the Assembly Rooms opened for balls and gatherings of the gentry during the horse racing and hare coursing seasons.
Originally the entrance of the Assembly Rooms faced west but at some time before 1841 was turned south to face the Marketplace.
The Rooms have been renovated several times in each century, the latest in 2023, always striving to retain its Georgian character.
Still Holds Events To This Day
During the 19th century it was used Increasingly for concerts, meetings and lectures and, since Swaffham was the Headquarters of the Southwest Norfolk Parliamentary Constituency, it was from here that election results were announced from 1832 until the mid-1980s.
It served as a billet and respite for soldiers flooded out of their camp in 1912, a canteen for American servicemen in World War II and a dining room for the boys of Hamond’s Grammar School in the 50s.
Dominating the centre of the Market it continues to be the location of choice for both public and private events.
Do you know Swaffham?
Do you live here, did you live here and do you know of any interesting, historical facts you’d like to share with us.
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