October already! As usual we’re saying: “Where has summer gone?” even though it was long and hot. But it seems suddenly we’re into autumn, and that means there’s just one month left this year to visit Wymondham Heritage Museum.

Yes, on October 29th, the closed signs go up in The Damgate Grocery Stores and The little Dustpan, the ironmongers, the recreated shops,. The rumbling Gane machine in the Brushroom that inserts the bristles into the stock will fall silent. The curtain will come down on the Regal Cinema display and the family incarcerated in the dungeon, will be locked away for the winter with only their resident rat for company.

The cell doors to the ancient prison cells will slam shut and the colourful courtyard garden will disappear under its winter cloak.

So don’t miss out on the opportunity to see these and the museums many other fascinating examples of the town’s history. In addition there’s a selection of books on sale about Wymondham and its history. Publications include the story of Robert Kett, the Market Cross and of course, the Bridewell itself. These will make ideal reading for those dark winter nights.

You may like to buy a souvenir from the museum’s shop. How about a pen so you’re ready to write your Christmas cards? A Wymondham mug for your coffee while you read how Robert Kett organised the rebels. A tea towel for when you’ve washed up your mug. And you’ll be helping to support the museum.

Make a date now to visit the museum. Don’t forget it’s open for half term so bring the children along. See if they can turn the crank. The prisoners had to do it to earn their food. Get your young charges to do it to earn a tasty snack in The Bridewell Tearoom.

If you really can’t make it, add a note to your to do list; “Visit Wymondham Heritage Museum in 2023”.

*Wymondham Heritage Museum is open daily until October 29th 1pm to 4pm; The Bridewell Tearoom is open 1pm to 4pm Monday to Friday. More information at thewhm.org.uk.

Heritage Open Day Success

With free entry, the museum welcomed more than 90 visitors on Heritage Open day. The Bridewell was buzzing with enthusiasm as old and young alike discovered just how much there is to see and do at the museum.

The Tearoom did a roaring trade with its homemade scones plus mouth-watering lemon drizzle and coffee sponges.

There were regular talks on the Brushroom, which showcases the town’s once major brush making industry, while in the sunny courtyard garden there were talks on the history of the Bridewell and what life was like for the prisoners. One visitor commented on the museum’s Facebook page: “Very interesting talk in the lovely garden, could have listened to the lady all afternoon!”