The Brethren's Hall

The Brethren’s Hall is the place where the Brothers of the Hospital of St Cross formerly gathered to dine:

This atmospheric room with its fine roof made of Spanish chestnut was built as the Master’s hall c. 1340. When the Master’s lodging was moved west in the later 16th century it became the Brothers’ own hall.

Almost all of the hall’s original features are still here today: the central hearth where a charcoal fire once burnt: the stairs leading directly from the Master’s lodging; the raised platform where he took his meals at the high table; and the musicians’ gallery. High up in the wall at the east end was a window from which the Master could keep aney on proceedings from his lodgings.

The hall is the scene of the Gaudy Lunch (from the Latin gaudere: to rejoice), traditionally held several times a year in order to bring the Brothers together to enjoy a large convivial feast. Nowadays a Gaudy takes place three times a year.*

The Brethren's Hall

The Brethren's Hall

The Brethren's Hall

The Kitchen

Beyond the hall lies the kitchen which was in daily use until the late 19th century. The fireplace dates back to the 15th century.

The Cellar

*From the Pitkin guide to The Hospital of St Cross and Almshouse of Noble Poverty

18 Comments CherryPie on Dec 5th 2016

18 Responses to “The Brethren’s Hall”

  1. Alan says:

    There’s some history to this place. I like the minstrels’ gallery.

  2. James Higham says:

    The brewery makes up for the austerity.

  3. Is musicians’ gallery some what I like a stage where music might of been played.
    Coffee is on

  4. lisl says:

    Did you try the dole, Cherie?

    • CherryPie says:

      Unfortunately my companions were in a rush, so no. I didn’t even get to have tea and cake in the teashop. No doubt Alan can inform you on the delights of the teashop :-)

  5. ....peter:) says:

    this is a very interesting place with all kinds of history Cherie…
    i still don’t understand the charcoal fire pit inside the building… there must have been a hood above it….peter:)

  6. Debbie says:

    historic, no doubt but it feels a little cold for dining!!

  7. Looks such an interesting building – so much history. Lovely photos. I have told my husband we just have to visit Winchester! :)

  8. I would love to have a range like that!