Our upcoming 30 January Homes & Interiors sale features a selection of the contents of Riddlesworth Hall, a Norfolk country house and a prolific all-girls boarding school where some notable public figures such as Princess Diana once studied.
12 January 2024
VIEW PREVIEW REQUEST A VALUATION CONTACT A SPECIALIST
Savills (UK) Limited 2023
Nestled between Thetford and Diss, Riddlesworth Hall stood as an imposing Norfolk country house since the 18th century. However, it was not until 1946 that the Georgian House came onto the map as an all-girls boarding school.
With over 27 acres of land and listed status, the building provided a striking backdrop to develop pupils as 'adventurous and academically ambitious young people' - the most notable of which was Diana, Princess of Wales.
Having felt the brunt of COVID-19 and financial challenges, the school finally closed its doors in 2023, with the hall up for sale with Savills, with offers over £3 million. The Sworders Homes & Interiors Department is delighted to have been instructed to sell selected contents from this historic institution, with 17 lots to feature in their 30th January sale.
Three Large Taxidermy Displays From Our 30 January Homes & Interiors Sale. All estimated at (£1,500-2,500)
The department’s favourite lots are undoubtedly the three spectacular cases of English birds by renowned Norwich taxidermist - Thomas Gunn. Originally fixed into the walls of the grand entrance hall, Head of Art & Estates, Luke Macdonald’s suspicions were confirmed after discovering Gunn's paper labels to the reverse upon the de-installation of the cases (it seems only fitting that Norfolk's finest taxidermist should take pride and place in one of Norfolk's significant houses). The three large displays depict birds of prey, garden and game birds, with estimates of £1,500-2,500.
Alongside the taxidermy, the collection also features furniture, sporting art and paintings. As the chapter closes for Riddlesworth Hall as a school, its proprietors are excited to find new homes for the pieces to enjoy their wonderful history.
Savills (UK) Limited 2023
homesandinteriors@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778
Following an enjoyable and informative visit to London Craft Week, the Sworders Design team share their top highlights.
3 June 2026
Many collectors of art and antiques will be familiar with the name of James Thursby-Pelham (1869-1947) and the celebrated collection in our upcoming Fine Interiors sales is not to be missed!
2 June 2026
This exceptional collection of Nigerian Adire indigo textiles, alongside other significant West African fabrics and ceremonial robes, dates from the 1920s onwards. The pieces were carefully curated during the 1970s and 1980s, representing an important body of material culture that reflects the artistry and social history of Yoruba textile traditions.
2 June 2026