OUR STORY

17th-century beginnings

The story of our Norfolk town hotel

Standing proudly on King’s Lynn’s Tuesday Market Place, The Duke’s Head Hotel has welcomed travellers, royals and merchants for centuries, with a story shaped by trade, tradition and time.

Here’s the story

Dukes Head Hotel

Dating back to the late 17th century, The Duke’s Head Hotel has long stood at the heart of King’s Lynn. From royal visits and merchant trade to preserved historic features and modern hospitality, its story continues to unfold.

Our History

Timeline of events

Key moments that shaped The Duke’s Head Hotel through the centuries.

  • 1683 - 1689

    Built by Sir John Turner

    Constructed as a grand coaching inn for King’s Lynn’s Merchants’ Exchange.

  • 17th Century

    Courtyard Design

    Originally built around a central courtyard with timber-framed galleries.

  • Early 1800s

    Massey & Co Bank

    Massey & Co bank occupied part of the building, inspiring today’s bar name.

  • 1835

    A Royal Visit

    Princess Victoria stayed in the Nelson Room during her journey through Lynn.

  • 1951

    Grade II Listed

    The hotel was granted Grade II listing for its historic and architectural value.

  • 1970

    Trust House Forte Era

    The hotel was acquired by Trust House Forte during a changing chapter.

  • 1973

    Expansion Added

    A six-storey accommodation block was added to meet growing demand.

  • 1975

    A Second Royal Visit

    Queen Elizabeth II visited rooms overlooking the Tuesday Market Place.

  • 2010

    Surya Hotels

    The Duke’s Head Hotel joined the Surya Hotels collection in June 2010.