Hall, 1630

A hall in 1630 - photography Chris Ridley

The hall was the centre of the household's communal activities. It was often positioned on the first floor, above the family’s business premises. It was a busy space used for dining, recreation, entertaining, business and childcare. The furniture would have been well used and needed to be sturdy, but also suitably impressive for a room that would have been seen by guests.

The Geffrye’s 1630s room is lined with replica oak panelling, often referred to at the time as ‘Wainscot’ and is based on a sketch made in the nineteenth century of a room in Aldersgate Street, long since demolished. It was a rare survival since the Great Fire of London in 1666 had destroyed almost all the houses in the City.

Explore our 360 views of the Period Rooms here or take the Virtual Tour.