History of Shirehall Museum, Little Walsingham

By Steve Willimott

The building, built in the early 16th century, was used as a hostel for important visitors as it was only 80 feet away from the Priory church. Originally there were two stories with stained glass windows and an open timber framed roof. In the 1770's, it was converted into the Shirehall for the quarter sessions, which were held here from 1778 until 1861; the petty sessions continued until 1971.

The courtroom has survived unaltered since it was last used and is now part of the ‘hands-on’ museum, which includes a comprehensive display on Walsingham as a place of pilgrimage since 1061, as well as local artifacts and photographs. The building also houses local tourist information and a well-stocked gift shop. Entrance to the Abbey is through the Shirehall.