Those who like design and architecture should pay a visit to Old Palace, Croydon. It is a former home for Archbishops of Canterbury over five centuries and a regular stopover for royalty such as Henry III and Elizabeth I. Highlights include the 15th century Great Hall, the Chapel, Long Gallery and Elizabeth I's bedroom. The palace is now a school for girls but historic tours are available on certain dates throughout the year.
The Great Hall was built in the time of Stafford (1443-52). It is built of flint rubble with ashlar buttresses, and the roof is a very impressive example of a complex arch-braced construction of the period.
The Guardroom is built of stone. Here archbishops retired after meals and received guests, and here the future James I of Scotland was imprisoned around 1412.
The Chapel dates back to the mid-15th century, though there was a chapel here in the 1280s. The screen at the west end was installed by Morton, who left on it his rebus, and the raised pew and altar rails by Laud.
You would love to see the Queen Elizabeth's Room. This room was customarily used by very honored guests, including the Queen herself. You will notice the 15th century construction and the amazing six centuries old well preserved ceiling.
Visit the Long galleries, where the royals used to dance and entertain guests in the 15th century.
Old Palace Road, Croydon, CR0 1AX
Tel: 020 8688 2027
No comments:
Post a Comment