Piccotts End: Pre-Reformation Wall paintings in a Grade I listed 16th century Hall House
The Painted House, 132 Piccotts End, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP1 3AU
An opportunity to visit a Grade I listed medieval cottage containing unique and very important early sixteenth century wall paintings. They include images of Christ in Majesty, the Virgin Mary, the Baptism of Jesus, St Clement, St Peter, St Katherine and St Margaret. These were painted in 1527, just before the Reformation, as a statement of Catholic support at a time of religious turmoil in the country, and are the only such surviving examples in the country.
Our second claim to fame is that Sir Astley Paston Cooper set up the first free cottage hospital in the country at these cottages in 1827, so hear about Victorian body snatchers too!!
Tours will run on the hour, so please refer to Eventbrite to book (details below). At each tour there will be a short talk by Karen Murphy MRes on her research into the history of the building and the paintings.
Tea, coffee and homemade cakes will also be available.
To support our conservation work of Piccotts End and the important paintings, donations on the day would be gratefully received.
We regret that the nature of the building is unsuitable for wheelchairs.
If you have any queries please email Karen on [email protected], or call on 07830 176431. Or call Janet on 07771 637735.
We look forward to seeing you
Timings
- Saturday 19 September:
- Bookable tours: 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 & 1500
- Sunday 20 September:
- Bookable tours: 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 & 1500
Location & directions
The Painted House, 132 Piccotts End, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP1 3AU
- Contact on day:
- Karen Murphy
- Telephone number:
- +447830176431
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking required
- Booking conditions:
- Please book via Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1990713115517?aff=oddtdtcreator
- Booking contact name:
- Karen Murphy
- Booking telephone number:
- +447830176431
- Booking email:
- [email protected]
- Booking website:
- https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1990713115517?aff=oddtdtcreator
Accessibility details
It is possible to fully appreciate the paintings from downstairs and there is also a mezzanine floor from which visitors can get a different perspective - however, this is up a steep set of stairs. Access to the property involves 3 steps up from the car park.
Additional information
Run by The Piccotts End Charitable Trust
- Max number of people:
- 28
- Estimated duration:
- 1 hour(s)
