Perched on the bank of the River Thames, Glaziers Hall is a stunning Grade II listed building that’s one of the standout pieces of architecture on the river. Original Georgian brick arches, Yorkstone floor and magnificent stained glass windows are some of the venue’s most impressive features, but the building’s rich history is certainly something to marvel at, too.
In 1977, the former dockside warehouse was acquired by the Glaziers Hall Limited who now owns one of the only livery halls that operates south of the River Thames. Fires, traders and legendary writers have all graced the building, but nowadays, the venue hosts court meetings, conferences and has even provided the setting for a series of enchanting Candlelight concerts.
Facts, Curiosities and Interesting Things about Glaziers Hall
1. The original Glaziers Hall burnt to the ground in 1666
The history of this gorgeous building is what makes it so interesting. In 1666, a catastrophic fire swept through the city of London. Over 13,000 buildings were destroyed as the fire wreaked havoc on the city, and Glaziers Hall was no exception. Over 300 years later, the building was relocated from its original location on Fye Foot Lane to where it stands proud on the bank of the River Thames today.
2. The building sets the scene for an iconic Charles Dickens tale
Having inspired literary greats such as Charles Dickens, Glaziers Hall has its fair share of stories to tell. The legendary writer actually used the steps outside the building to set an important scene for his beloved Oliver Twist novel. Known as ‘Nancy’s Steps’, the area right outside the venue is where one of the book’s protagonists Nancy met her fateful end as she was murdered by Bill Sikes.
3. A venue that’s worn many hats
In the 14th century, the original building was used to manufacture and store glass, but after the fire of 1666, the building was abandoned and left in ruins. Following the relocation and renovations in the early 1800s, the venue was then used to store dairy products imported from Ireland until it was destroyed by yet another fire in 1851. Nowadays, Glaziers Hall hosts one of the most charitable livery halls in the country.
Candlelight concerts at Glaziers Hall
The Candlelight series is bringing all of the power and mesmerising melodies created by artists such as Beyoncé and Ed Sheeran, as well as the distinctive voices of singers including Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley to this stunning event space. Unwind in a candlelit setting and reintroduce yourself to some of your favourite music as gifted musicians put a classical twist on some of the most iconic hits of the last 70 years.
What else can you do at Glaziers Hall?
Glaziers Hall is a gorgeous venue located on the south side of London Bridge offering incredible views over the Thames and of the City of London. In addition to the magical Candlelight series, the venue hosts amazing corporate functions and private celebratory occasions inside this spectacular setting. Not only that, but the building also sets the stage for competitions and award ceremonies that recognise the impressive works by talented glass artists from near and far.
London has its fair share of iconic landmarks known for their architecture, history, charm or all three, and the magnificent Glaziers Hall certainly ticks all these boxes. With spellbinding tributes to beloved artists both past and present, Candlelight at this remarkable venue equals evenings of captivating music surrounded by the glow of hundreds of flickering candles.