In 1854, owner Henry Orford discovered a Roman pavement and presented his findings to Ipswich Museum.

 

In 1894, more Roman coins and pavement were unearthed when Henry Orford planted a new orchard.

By 1911, Castle Hill Community Centre, previously a private house, boasted impressive features, including three wine cellars, five cottages, agricultural buildings, 190 acres of land, two orchards, pleasure gardens, croquet and tennis lawns, fruit and vegetable gardens, and glasshouses. The house was sold at auction for £5,000, offering an eight-bedroom house and extensive grounds.

 

In 1947, Castle Hill House was sold to Ipswich County Borough for £5,500.

 

In 1961, resident Linda Laisure recalled being born at the community centre, where her parents worked as caretakers. She lived there until she was three.

 

In the 1970s, Josephine Gail Fox reminisced about spending Wednesday nights at the youth club held there, creating great memories.

2015/2016

Back in 2015, Castle Hill Community Centre faced the very real threat of closure, with plans in place to shut its doors by March 2016. But the local community refused to let that happen. In response, the Castle Hill Community Centre Interim Management Group (IMG) was formed—bringing together passionate residents and stakeholders who stepped in to save the building. Thanks to their dedication, the centre was not only preserved but revitalised as a thriving hub for events, wellbeing, and connection.

By 2017/18, restoration of the house was underway, uncovering hidden treasures behind panelling and paintwork. The drawing room was nearly complete, the morning room was being revamped, and plans were in place to overhaul the nursery.

In 2018, the Castle Hill Community Centre Trust was established to oversee the ongoing restoration and preservation of this historic building.