Custom House
A beautifully preserved 17th-century building on King's Lynn's historic waterfront, once a hub for merchants and customs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Custom House
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully preserved 17th-century building on King's Lynn's historic waterfront, once a hub for merchants and customs.
"This beautiful and well preserved little building on the cobbled Purfleet Quay was built in 1683 by Henry Bell."
🚶♀️ Waterfront Strolls
Enjoy a peaceful walk along Purfleet Quay, admiring the historic buildings and maritime charm.
🏛️ Check Opening Times
Interior access may be limited; verify hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Custom House
Purfleet Quay
A beautifully preserved 17th-century building, once a hub for merchants and customs. Its architecture is a testament to King's Lynn's rich trading past.
Purfleet Quay Waterfront
Adjacent to the Custom House
Stroll along the cobbled quay, soak in the maritime atmosphere, and admire the historic merchant houses. A peaceful spot with a story to tell.
George Vancouver Statue
In front of the Custom House
A prominent statue honoring the famed 18th-century explorer who charted the Pacific Coast of North America. A great photo opportunity.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Custom House
Exploring the Historic Waterfront
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Waterfront Strolls
Enjoy a peaceful walk along Purfleet Quay, admiring the historic buildings and maritime charm.
🏛️ Check Opening Times
Interior access may be limited; verify hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
🅿️ Parking Availability
Parking is generally available in the area surrounding the Custom House.
📜 Interpretation Boards
Look for informative boards detailing the history of the quay and its buildings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Waterfront Strolls
Enjoy a peaceful walk along Purfleet Quay, admiring the historic buildings and maritime charm.
🏛️ Check Opening Times
Interior access may be limited; verify hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
🅿️ Parking Availability
Parking is generally available in the area surrounding the Custom House.
📜 Interpretation Boards
Look for informative boards detailing the history of the quay and its buildings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Custom House for its beautiful preservation and historical significance, noting its role in King's Lynn's Hanseatic trading past. The surrounding Purfleet Quay offers a charming waterfront experience with a peaceful atmosphere and interesting historical context, including the George Vancouver statue. While interior access can be limited, the exterior and the quay are considered well worth a visit for their historical charm and architectural beauty.
"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 in the area."
ian foster
"Custom house is located at Purefleet just next to riverside. Beautiful architecture building. George Vancouver statue is around just in front of this building. Lovely place"
UK Photo Journey
"Great place for an evening stroll. Quite charm by the waterfront. Well preserved."
Satish Chandran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Custom House is located at Purfleet Quay, right by the riverside in King's Lynn. It's easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the town center. Parking is available nearby.
King's Lynn has a bus station and a train station, both within walking distance of the Custom House. You can check local bus routes for direct access to the town center.
Yes, driving is an option, and parking is available in the vicinity of Purfleet Quay. Be mindful of any local parking restrictions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to view the exterior of the Custom House and explore Purfleet Quay is free.
While the exterior is always accessible, interior access may be limited. It's advisable to check local information for any opening times or tours.
Specific opening hours for the interior can vary. It's best to check with local King's Lynn tourist information or relevant websites for the most up-to-date details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the beautifully preserved 17th-century architecture of the Custom House itself. You can also see the George Vancouver statue and enjoy the historic Purfleet Quay.
Absolutely! The historic architecture, waterfront setting, and the George Vancouver statue offer excellent photographic opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Yes, boat trips can be taken from the South Quay, which is near the Custom House, offering a different perspective of the waterfront.
Built in 1683, it served as a customs house and a trading place for merchants, playing a vital role in King's Lynn's Hanseatic trading history until 1989.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, King's Lynn town center, including areas around Tuesday Market Square, offers various dining options from pubs to restaurants. The Duke's Head Hotel is a notable historic establishment nearby.
Typically, the Custom House itself is a historical building and may not have on-site food and beverage services. However, numerous cafes and eateries are within easy walking distance.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the Custom House from across the quay for a full view, include the George Vancouver statue in your shots, and frame the building with the historic merchant houses.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers beautiful light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it part of a broader walk along the waterfront, perhaps looking for boats or imagining the lives of sailors and merchants. Pack some snacks and enjoy the open space, making it a pleasant, low-key outing. The historical context can be simplified for younger children by focusing on stories of ships and trade.
🚶 History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Explore Purfleet Quay to understand the context of the building's location and its connection to the medieval docks. Reading the interpretation boards will provide deeper insights into the area's rich maritime heritage. The well-preserved nature of the site makes it a rewarding experience for history enthusiasts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Significance of the Custom House
Originally serving as both a customs house and a meeting place for merchants, it symbolized the town's commercial power. The building remained the center for customs and excise operations until 1989, underscoring its long-standing role in the town's economy. Its enduring presence offers a tangible link to centuries of maritime trade and history.
Today, the Custom House stands as a testament to King's Lynn's rich past. While interior access might be limited, its exterior beauty and the surrounding historic quay provide a compelling glimpse into the town's heritage. It's a must-see for anyone interested in architectural history and maritime heritage.
Exploring Purfleet Quay and its Maritime Heritage
Visitors can learn more about the quay's history through interpretation boards, which offer fascinating facts about its development and the trade that once flourished here. The presence of the George Vancouver statue adds another layer of historical interest, connecting the quay to significant figures in exploration. The relatively quiet nature of the harbourfront today offers a peaceful contrast to its busy past.
While the number of moored vessels might be fewer now, the charm of Purfleet Quay remains. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, offering picturesque views and a chance to imagine the vibrant trading scene of centuries past. Boat trips from the nearby South Quay provide an opportunity to experience the waterfront from a different perspective.
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