Here is a very historic property that we have swept for on an annual basis for many years now, Ashdon Guildhall. The Guildhall or to give it its full title the Guildhall of St Mary, is situated just behind All Saints Church at Church End at the top end of the village just off the road to Saffron Walden. The guildhall was constructed in the 15^th century and is indicative of the wealth and prosperity of Ashdon at that time. A guildhall is a historic building in Britain and Europe, originally used by medieval merchant and craft guilds for meetings, trade, and tax collection (from Old English gild meaning payment).

In terms of sweeping, the guildhall has two modern lined stoves one of which is located upstairs (Dovre and Coalbrookdale stoves). This keeps us busy in the autumn, particularly moving all the sweeping equipment upstairs – A big effort for a pair of oldies like me and Claire!!

The Guildhall of St Mary is a Grade II* listed building, first listed on 26^th November 1951, Listing Number 1112492.