United Kingdom The Marble Hall, Surrey House

This Grade 1 listed building was designed by George Skipper and opened in 1905 as the head offices of the Norwich Union Life Insurance Society, today known as Aviva. They still use it but have long since outgrown it, so they have offices attached to the back. Much of the marble same from Siena. Some of it was originally intended for Westminster Cathedral but Skipper acquired it cheaply here it is. In fact, the Marble Hall was not part of the original design for the building but when this marble became accessible…

The most eye-catching aspect as you approach are the windows at the lowest level of the façade; they are each protected by three golden wyverns.

Take the widest lens you have, and a tripod. You’ll need to ask the security people at Reception but I found them very helpful – as befits the company culture.

Don’t expect to be given access to upstairs.

It’s right in central Norwich at 8 Surrey Street, NR1 3NG, so walk or taxi.