The Master's House
The Master's House has been at the heart of Ledbury life for more than 500 years and is home to Ledbury Library. Entry is free and all are welcome to explore this extraordinary building during library opening hours.
The Master's House is a unique Grade II* Listed building, originally built in 1487-8 to house the Master of St Katherine's Hospital, which was founded in 1231 to provide food and shelter to the poor and needy. The house sat at the centre of the St Katherine's Hospital site which included the adjacent Chapel, outbuildings and later almshouses.
This is the only surviving building of its kind in Britain. Much of the original building survives, including the magnificent Great Hall and the timber-framed kitchen wing, as well as later additions from the Georgian and Victorian periods.
Extensive restoration of the building was completed in 2015, funded by Herefordshire Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund. The project was supported by The Friends of The Master's House, a voluntary group whose enthusiastic and dedicated campaign saved The Master's House from falling into disrepair.
The Master's House is home to the archive and library of The John Masefield Society. For all enquiries about holdings and access, please email philerrington@hotmail.com
The Panelled Room also houses an extensive collection of books and pamphlets by and about the Dymock Poets.
For more information about the history and restoration of the building and to join a tour, please visit the Friends of The Master's House website.
Outside The Master's House a large public space, St Katherine's Square, is available for hire.