The history of the inspirational Pennoyer Centre spans the Middle Ages, The Civil War, Victorian England and the 21st Century. What was once a spiritual centre has evolved through a history of trading, benevolence and schooling into a new, contemporary facility serving the needs of business and community through our area of South Norfolk. Please see our history page for details of the Guild Chapel and the time line and activities of William Pennoyer.

Architecturally the Centre is a harmonious marriage of three different elements – C15 Guild Chapel, Victorian school and C21 steel and glass atrium. The heritage of the building has been maintained through sympathetic restoration using traditional skills and materials while exposing previously hidden features of the Guild Chapel. Since completion the building has won a number of prized design and community awards the jewel in our crown being RICS NationalCommunity Building runner up in 2011.

Multi function in concept, the Centre’s facilities are on two floors. On the ground floor the old school rooms and Guild Chapel make up reception or meeting spaces. With abundant natural light the contemporary finishes of oak, glass and steel create a wonderful ambience.

On the first floor a suite of rooms is available for meetings including an IT suite with state of the art technology for delivery of training or presentations. A viewing gallery with floor to ceiling glass wall overlooking the Guild Chapel accommodates our visitor displays and narrative but is also available as a dramatic setting for a reception or small exhibition.

For floor plans, layouts and detail of equipment available please see our Venue Booking page.

The Pennoyer Centre is a new registered charity with objectives inherited from three charities which it supersedes. Our objectives are for education, social recreation and the preservation of the heritage and building in which we operate.

We are located in the South Norfolk village of Pulham St Mary within easy reach of Norwich, Diss and Ipswich. If you are visiting the area view the building and discover its history through our audio tour and heritage displays. If you are a business seeking a venue for a presentation or meeting visit us to see the facilities for yourself. Alternatively, sample our smartly informal café and browse the events diary for the social, cultural events and courses on offer. Visitors are welcome at any time – normal opening hours are Monday - Wednesday 9.00am to 5pm and Thursday - Saturday 9am - 4pm. Café last orders - 2.30pm.

With inclusive access to all areas and facilities and its own car park The Pennoyer Centre is a unique venue for all types of events, activities and occasions.

Please visit our Contact Us page for further information, map and enquiries.