They are the most complete set of pre-reformation mendicant monastic structures to survive in England.

The halls are now used for conferences, weddings, concerts, beer festivals and meetings.

In the mid 13th century a religious order called the Friars of the Sack settled in Norwich, in the parishes of St Andrew and St Peter Hungate.

During the Reformation, the site was saved by the City Corporation, which bought it from the king for use as a 'common hall.'

[5][6] It has been used regularly for civic occasions since 1544, when the first Mayor's feast was held for the inauguration of Henry Fuller.