Our Collaboration with Sutton House, National Trust, Hackney​
HACKNEY MUSIC LIVE is proud to be partnered with Sutton House, one of the most distinctive gems and architectural pleasures in the heart of Hackney owned by the National Trust. Since the early 1990s, Hackney Music Live (previously the Sutton House Music Society) has been bringing world-class concerts to this historic venue in the atmospheric Wenlock Barn, which holds a magnificent Steinway grand piano.
Geoffrey Saba (pianist) performing in the Wenlock Barn, Sutton House ~ Painting by Laura Mudge (artist)
​The History of Sutton House and the Music Society
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich and varied history of Sutton House, a Grade II* listed Tudor manor nestled in the vibrant borough of Hackney, London. Built in the 16th century, this atmospheric home has witnessed the lives of Tudor courtiers, Victorian schoolchildren, and even music-loving squatters of the 1980s. Every room in Sutton House has a story to tell, each echoing with the footsteps of its diverse inhabitants. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply curious about the past, Sutton House offers a unique journey through time.
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A Tudor Beginning
Sutton House was constructed in 1535 by Ralph Sadleir, a trusted aide of Thomas Cromwell during the reign of King Henry VIII. As a young boy, Sadleir was placed in Cromwell's household, where he received an exceptional education, learning Latin, Greek, and French. His skills and intellect paved the way for a distinguished political career, which included diplomatic missions to Scotland to enhance Anglo-Scottish relations and defend the interests of Margaret Tudor, Henry VIII’s sister.
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Sadleir's connection to Sutton House began when he built this magnificent three-storey, brick home for his family in what was then the semi-rural village of Hackney. Known as 'the bryk place,' it stood out for its sturdy red brick construction, a rarity in Tudor England. The house, originally surrounded by fields and orchards, was a testament to Sadleir's status and success. It was here that Sadleir and his wife, Helen Barre, raised their family, amidst the tumultuous backdrop of Tudor politics.
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The Silk Merchant's Touch
In 1627, the house found a new owner in Captain John Milward, a prosperous silk merchant associated with the East India Company. Milward's tenure brought exotic silks and fine furnishings to Sutton House, along with the stunning 'trompe l'oeil' paintings that adorn the staircase. These optical illusion artworks were commissioned to impress guests, showcasing Milward’s wealth and status. His wife, Anne, played a significant role in transforming the house into a luxurious abode filled with imported goods. However, the prosperity of the silk trade was not to last. By the 1630s, financial difficulties forced Milward to mortgage the house. Despite these challenges, his contributions left an indelible mark on Sutton House, adding to its rich tapestry of history.
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A House Divided
By 1751, Sutton House had been divided into two homes: Ivy House and Milford House. Ivy House was occupied by Victorian solicitor Charles Pulley, who lived there for around 40 years, while Milford House served as an academy for girls. The division of the house reflected the changing social and economic landscape of the time, as Hackney transitioned from a rural village to a bustling urban area. In 1891, the entire property was united once again to become St John’s Church Institute, a vibrant community centre providing skills training and social activities for young men. Known affectionately as 'the 'Tute', it served the community until the National Trust acquired the house just before World War II. The institute played a crucial role in the lives of local men, offering a place for spiritual, mental, social, and physical welfare.
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20th Century Transformations
The mid-20th century brought further change as Sutton House became the headquarters for the Association of Supervisory Staffs, Executives and Technicians (ASSET) trade union. Under the leadership of Clive Jenkins, the union used the house for administrative purposes until the early 1980s. This period saw Sutton House adapt to new roles while retaining its historical charm. After the union left, the house fell into disrepair, reflecting the economic and social shifts of the time. In 1985, a group of squatters took residence, renaming it the ‘Blue House’. They transformed Sutton House into a hub for community activities, hosting a café, cultural workshops, and even rock concerts. This period of occupation added a unique chapter to the house’s history, showcasing its resilience and adaptability.
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Restoration and Renewal
The decline of Sutton House sparked a vigorous campaign by the Sutton House Society in the late 1980s to save and restore this historic gem. By 1991, extensive renovations were completed, breathing new life into the house. In 1994, Sutton House reopened to the public, restored to its former glory. Richard Griffiths Architects designed and executed a plan for arts and educational uses, incorporating a concert hall, exhibition room, cafe/bar and shop, as well as a range of historic rooms of various periods.
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Today, visitors to Sutton House can enjoy a fully restored Tudor manor that serves as a museum, café, art gallery, and gift shop. The house offers a vibrant programme of educational and community activities, and is also a licensed venue for marriages. The restoration project meticulously revived many of the Tudor features, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the house as it was in its heyday.
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A Living Legacy
Sutton House stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of history, resilience, and community spirit. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply curious about the past, Sutton House offers a unique journey through time, right in the heart of Hackney. Discover the layers of history at Sutton House and let the stories of its former inhabitants inspire and captivate you. Welcome to a place where history lives and breathes – welcome to Sutton House.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
The house is open on Fridays and Sundays from 11am to 4pm.
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• Self-led visits throughout opening hours. No booking necessary, buy a ticket at our welcome desk.​​
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• Guided Tours are held at 11am, 1pm and 2:30pm on Friday and 12pm, 1:30pm and 3pm on Sunday. Booking is highly recommended. A small number of on the door tickets are available on a first come, first served basis.