Custom House — Attraction in King's Lynn and West Norfolk

This beautiful and well preserved little building on the cobbled Purfleet Quay was built in 1683 by Henry Bell (who in the same year also built the Duke's Head Hotel in Tuesday Market Square, where I've been staying!). It was not only a customs house but also initially a place for merchants to trade, and it remained the home of customs and excise until 1989. Would have loved to have taken a look inside, but it was closed. There's a statue of George Vancouver, the 18th century sea captain and explorer who charted the Pacific Coast of North America, in front of it. The quay stands on the site of the medieval docks and is worth a look. There's an interpretation board with lots of interesting facts about its history. The harbourfront generally seemed almost deserted, only a couple of moored vessels, but I enjoyed the quiet charm of its narrow streets and old merchant's houses. You can still take boat trips from...

This place is somewhat heavily marketed within Kings Lynn as a place to visit - lots of photos showing interesting aspects - my appetite was whetted.

Imagine then my disappointment to find the place closed.

My visit to Kings Lynn was on Bank Holiday Monday - most other places in Kings Lynn managed to muster enough staff to open - just not the Customs...

Went to Kings Lynn to look at buildings related to the Hanseatic trading and shipping history dating from about 1400. Custom house is part of the route. This building is in very good condition both inside and out. Entry is free parking is available...