Stamford's Medieval Gem, Browne's Hospital Opened Its Doors for the Christmas Market

Stamford's Medieval Gem, Browne's Hospital Opened Its Doors for the Christmas Market

A highlight of the festive season in Stamford is the chance to step inside one of the town's most ancient  buildings: Browne’s Hospital. Coinciding with the bustling Stamford Christmas Market, the Grade II listed complex, which functions as a working almshouse, opens its historic chapel and museum to the public, offering a warm retreat with craft stalls, entertainment, and tours.

The annual indoor Christmas event at the Hospital offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the medieval architecture, usually only accessible via guided tour, while enjoying festive cheer alongside the main town market.

The history of Browne's Hospital dates back to 1475, when it was founded by William Browne, a profoundly wealthy wool merchant of Stamford, and his wife Margaret, during the reign of Edward IV. Originally established as a 'Bedehouse' a home and house of prayer it was meant to provide accommodation for 10 poor men and two poor women, led by a Warden and a Confrater (secular priests).

The foundation received its official charter from Richard III in 1485, and a subsequent royal charter from Henry VII in 1494, cementing its status. This charitable institution was richly endowed and is sometimes referred to as a Royal Foundation or Royal Hospital. Over the centuries, the Hospital has maintained its architectural integrity, though the accompanying accommodation was modernised. It gained further fame when it featured as "Middlemarch Hospital" in the classic film adaptation of George Eliot's novel.

The 'Hospital' in its name reflects its original function as a place of hospitality and refuge for the poor, a purpose it still fulfils.

Browne's Hospital remains a fully functioning almshouse, now providing safe, self-contained flats for elderly residents in need.

The almshouses in the grounds are still tenanted. The Victorian cottages surrounding the courtyard garden were converted into 13 modern, self-contained flats in the 1960s, and they currently accommodate residents.

The institution is owned and managed by The Hospital of William Browne, which is a Registered Charity (Charity Number 221428). It is administered by a dedicated Board of Trustees and Governors, who oversee both the charity's operations and the preservation of its nationally significant historic buildings, which include the chapel with its original 15th-century stained glass and the Audit Room.

For further information on visiting, history, and the charity, please visit the official website: https://www.browneshospital.co.uk/