Our History
The signature in our guest book marks a very special moment in Thornham’s history: the official inauguration of the new Village Hall by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on 28 January 2014.
But the story of Thornham Village Hall began long before then.
For more than a century, Thornham’s community life was centred on the Old Drill Hall on Ringstead Road. Originally built for the Church Lads’ Brigade as a target range, it later took on a more peaceful role. Following the Second World War, it became a much-loved village space, hosting WI meetings, wedding receptions and other social gatherings.
By the early 21st century, the Drill Hall could no longer meet the needs of the community. Local volunteers and trustees came together with plans for a modern, accessible facility, and a six-acre site was secured for community use. Work began with the creation of a multi-use games area, alongside plans for a new Hall.
Following years of fundraising and planning, with generous support from the National Lottery, King’s Lynn & West Norfolk Borough Council, Norfolk County Council and Norfolk Community Council, the new Thornham Village Hall opened in 2013. The following year, Queen Elizabeth II officially inaugurated the Hall and signed the guest book pictured above.
Today, Thornham Village Hall and Playing Field continues the long tradition of community use established by the Old Drill Hall, evolving with the times while remaining a place for people to meet, take part and spend time together.
