Heritage Grants
A partnership between Suffolk County Council and the University of Suffolk, The Hold is an exemplary heritage storehouse, preserving and protecting more than nine centuries of Suffolk’s rich and diverse history. People researching local and family history can take advantage of cutting-edge archives services in the search room, library and education room. New teaching and presentation spaces for university staff and students include a 200-seat auditorium.
Judith Berry, Operations Manager at The Hold, said: “This flagship building offers facilities that rival any other in the country. Heritage Fund investment has not only supported the building, but also enabled us to encourage more diverse communities around Suffolk to connect with their heritage.”
With 4,700 square metres of floor space, The Hold has more than enough room for the ever-growing collections. It hosts a variety of activities for all ages, including exhibitions, film screenings, family craft activities, escape rooms, schools visits, talks and walks.
Within four years of opening, the venue has held over 700 events reaching 32,000 people. Eighty five school sessions have welcomed more than 2,700 pupils, and 8,458 hours have been invested by dedicated volunteers.
Alistair Brown, Head of Museums, Libraries and Archives Policy at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “The Heritage Fund is committed to supporting heritage for the future as well as the present. The Hold is a fantastic example of this, safeguarding the story of Suffolk for future generations and enabling access to a rich collection of material for communities across Suffolk and beyond.”