Halesworth Town Trail
Hooker House
Formerly known as Brewery House this 19th century house was once about twice its present size with spacious gardens stretching down to the river. This magnificent garden is now lost. Sir William Hooker, botanist and maltster, lived here and his son Joseph was born in the house. They were consecutive directors of the famous Kew Gardens in London, with Sir William being the very first Director. Joseph Hooker travelled and worked as a surgeon and botanist on a voyage from Antarctica to the Himalayas. He sent home the firt Rhododendron. Sarcococca Hookeriana (common name Sweet Christmas Box) was named after Joseph Hooker.
The house was purchased from Hooker by Patrick Stead, Maltster, whose Maltings were the largest in the country. One malt house still remains, although now converted into flats. Patrick Stead left a legacy to build the town hospital which bears his name.
Joseph Hooker was a great friend of Charles Darwin and his work on the distribution of plants seems to be in support of Darwin's theories. He encouraged and supported Darwin when he wrote 'The Origin of Species'.
From Hooker House cross the road towards the Chapel. The United Reformed Church was built as a Congregational Church and opened in 1836 with a congregation of 1500. However, the seating capacity was 900, so it must have been a bit of a squash.
From here you can either turn to your right and walk along to Station Road, or you can turn to your left, follow the road around and walk up the hill to New Cut. Turn right into New Cut where you will find The CUT in refurbished Maltings.
Built in 1897 this Maltings replaced earlier buildings dating back to 1837 and until 1906 was part of the Prince of Wales Brewery. The brewery closed and the Maltings purchased by W.D. & A.E. Walker, maltsters of Bungay who sold out to Watney, Coombe Reid & Co. Malting ceased in 1967.
It is possible to continue along New Cut to the end and turn left into Station Road - but there is no pavement beyond The CUT . Alternatively, re-trace your steps back to the Chapel and follow the road along to Station road.
View the Town Trail on the Halesworth Map