blue plaque · Norwich
Wrights Court
Wrights Court is recognised as a significant example of residential court architecture in Norwich. It stands as the sole remaining court leading directly off Elm Hill and is one of only a few such structures that have survived within the city. These courts provided a common form of housing for working people in Norwich over many centuries. The plaque highlights its importance as a tangible link to the city's past living conditions, reflecting a form of urban dwelling that once characterised much of the city's residential landscape.
The memorial acknowledges a type of housing arrangement common in Norwich from the medieval period right up until the 1920s. These residential courts, often referred to as yards, were once a prevalent feature of the city's urban fabric, housing numerous working-class families. During this time, it was common for multiple families to reside within a single house, sharing essential facilities like a communal pump and a privy located within the yard itself. Many of these courts were subsequently removed during widespread slum clearance initiatives, making Wrights Court a rare survivor.
This blue plaque is located at Wrights Court, which can be found off Elm Hill in Norwich. Visitors can observe this preserved example of historic residential architecture in its original urban setting. The court offers a quiet glimpse into the living conditions of past generations within the city. Visitors are encouraged to approach the site respectfully, acknowledging its historical significance as a reminder of Norwich's social and architectural heritage.
Inscription
“Wrights Court The only remaining example of a residential court leading off Elm Hill, and one of only a handful to survive in Norwich. These courts or yards were a common form of habitation for working people in the City from Medieval times until the 1920s, but many were demolished during slum clearance. Several families lived in each house, sharing one pump and a privy in the yard.”
Background
Wrights Court The only remaining example of a residential court leading off Elm Hill, and one of only a handful to survive in Norwich. These courts or yards were a common form of habitation for working people in the City from Medieval times until the 1920s, but many were demolished during slum clearance. Several families lived in each house, sharing one pump and a privy in the yard.
Original summary by TributeLegacy, informed by public sources.
Source: Open Plaques. Geographic data via OpenStreetMap.