People will have a chance to visit one of Norwich's 'hidden gems' next week.

The Great Hospital in Bishopgate is holding a series of open days for people to explore the historic site which was founded in 1249.

Maureen Eastman, events administrator at The Great Hospital, said: 'The Great Hospital is one of the hidden gems of Norwich; a lot of people don't realise that this place exists in the centre of Norwich. It is so tranquil; it is like a little village in the centre of Norwich. We are one of the oldest places in Norwich. The Great Hospital is only slightly younger than Norwich Cathedral. The cathedral was built in the 1100s and The Great Hospital dates from 1249. It is a special place.

'During the open days people can go into St Helen's Church, they can go to the Eagle Ward and learn about the history at The Lodge, and some of the residents are also putting on a display of arts and crafts.'

The Great Hospital has been caring for people for more than 760 years. It was originally established to care for retired clergy, poor scholars and sick and hungry paupers, and has been expanded and developed over the centuries. The site – which includes 15 listed buildings – is now a sheltered housing and care village with nearly 100 residents.

One of the architectural highlights visitors will be able to see is Eagle Ward which used to be part of the chancel of St Helen's Church and which has a ceiling featuring 252 eagles painted on chestnut panels.

The lavish ceiling was thought to have been painted in honour of Anne of Bohemia, who visited Norwich in 1383 with her husband King Richard II.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy wandering around St Helen's Church, one of the smallest monastic cloisters in England, and the medieval refectory, and residents of the Great Hospital are putting on an exhibition of arts and craft in one of the main halls.

The Lodge information room will be open each day for people to find out more about the Great Hospital's history.

The open days are Monday, August 6 to Friday, August 10, from 10am until 3pm each day. Entrance is free. Visitors should note the Eagle Ward is not accessible by wheelchair. For more details go to www.greathospital.org.uk

Norwich HEART is also arranging tours of the Norwich 12 buildings, including The Great Hospital, on September 6, 7 and 8. For more details call Norwich HEART on 01603 305575.

Are you organising a heritage project in Norwich? Call reporter Emma Knights on 01603 772428 or email emma.knights@archant.co.uk