The ancient Bridewell, home of the Heritage Museum, has stood proudly on Norwich Road for centuries. In its role as a House of Correction, just imagine how many times cell doors would have been slammed shut and locked. Probably thousands over the years.

Today, there are of course no more prisoners to be secured, so the doors remain open. But on November 2nd, one door was shut and locked. The front door of The Bridewell was shut and locked, marking the end of the 2025 season. Throughout the summer, the door was open daily to welcome visitors to enjoy the history and exhibitions that tell the story of Wymondham, its residents and industries.

Throughout the year, the volunteers have worked tirelessly not only to keep the museum in tip-top shape but also to stage special events. This dedicated band has gone the extra mile to provide visitors with an experience that is both educational and fun. Volunteers include not only the committee but stewards, our Tearoom servers, those who deal with donations, bookkeepers, social media helpers, and our wonderful staff looking after the attractive Courtyard Garden.

Among the season’s exhibition highlights are the tributes paid to the people of Wymondham who took up arms in the war. The “Echoes of Valour” display featuring the Far East Prisoners of War. There was the recreation of an Anderson Shelter and “The Friendly Invasion” display illustrating how the arrival of the Americans in the Second World War had an impact on the town and its people.

The museum prides itself on being family-friendly. There is plenty to amuse the children including hands-on activities, the quiz and dressing up.

Among our special events from last season were the Spooktacular Halloween Week, where the volunteers showed their creativity. The museum was decorated with cobwebs and pumpkins, and our bakers produced themed goodies in the Tearoom.

Ben Goldsborough, our local MP, paid a visit and commented, “Local museums are so important. They provide a link back to families, to human stories where people came from and were going to.”

The Bridewell Tearoom, with its homemade cakes and scones, has also had a successful year, attracting visitors to drop in for a drink and a snack.

All that should have wetted your appetite to come to The Bridewell when the front door is unlocked for the new season in March. Keep your eyes peeled – one of our exhibitions will celebrate the 150th anniversary of Browick Road School.

But - the Bridewell will be open just once more this year! On December 7th, as part of “A Very Wymondham Christmas”, the museum will be open from 12-5pm with free entry for all. Hot drinks and mince pies in the tearoom.

Volunteers Welcome and Needed!

We are already looking for volunteers for next year to continue the good work and keep the museum as one of the major attractions, not only in Wymondham but in Norfolk. Volunteering is fun! The lively team get stuck in and has some laughs on the way.

If you can spare just a few hours a month, there are opportunities in the Tearoom, for stewards, and for those who want to help out generally. Following the sad loss of maintenance manager, David Brackenbury, anybody who can help with maintaining the museum, repairs, building displays and other practical jobs will be most welcome. If you can help, please email info@thewhm.org.uk.