The Athenaeum

In the 9th century Edmund, the king of East Anglia was martyred here and the town remains a memorial to him to this day. Since those days the town has grown into the thriving and bustling market town it is today, attracting visitors from all over the world to see its historic buildings and fabulous architecture.

One of these iconic buildings is The Athenaeum, purpose-built in the early 18th century as Assembly Rooms where the locals could gather to play cards, read books, attend parties and generally have a good time; not that different from its use today! It was re-named The Athenaeum in 1854 and is a Grade I listed building comprising a number or spaces available for hire including the ornate Georgian Ballroom, its chandeliered ceiling and grand décor being reminiscent of the days of Pride and Prejudice.