Although I called Norwich home for a few years, I recently experienced the Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell for the first time as a tourist with my son. It was the perfect way to reconnect with the city, and I was amazed by the museum’s family-friendly atmosphere. With engaging exhibits showcasing Norwich’s rich commercial and industrial heritage, it’s an educational adventure for all ages. Did you know Norwich was once the second-largest city in England after London? Keep reading to discover the highlights of this hidden gem in the heart of Norwich!
Key Highlights at the Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell
The Museum of Norwich resides in a building with a fascinating past. Originally a Bridewell (a prison and house of correction), the museum has evolved into an informative and interactive space. If you’re intrigued by its historical role, an 1813 inventory reveals items such as ‘posts and chains’ used during its time as a prison.
One of the most impressive features of the building is the undercroft, which boasts the largest vaulted space in the city. These rooms were once used for storage in medieval times. Unfortunately, the undercroft is not currently accessible to visitors, but the nearby Norwich Castle, which is undergoing renovations, will soon offer a chance to explore its keep.
Despite its somber origins, the Museum of Norwich is far from gloomy. It’s a vibrant and educational space filled with hands-on exhibits that children will love. We had a fantastic time exploring the city’s history, from its textile industry to its many trades. One of the most fascinating exhibits is a recreation of a vintage pharmacy!
Discovering Norwich’s Rise to Prominence
The museum’s exhibits take you back to the 1700s when Norwich was one of England’s most prosperous cities, outstripping medieval rivals like Bristol, York, and Newcastle.
Visitors can admire historical treasures like a medieval door frame, a parliamentary chair, and a sedan chair. There’s even a chance to try on wigs and step into a re-created 18th-century coffee house—perfect for a bit of fun, especially with kids.
Another exciting part of the museum focuses on Norwich’s textile history. I was surprised to learn how much of an impact the textile industry had on the city’s development, and I loved seeing examples of cloth and pattern books from the period.
There’s also a hands-on chest of drawers with items to touch, see, and smell. The museum is designed with children in mind, and there are plenty of opportunities for interactive learning. My son really enjoyed these areas as he explored Norwich’s evolving story.
Norwich’s Industrial Legacy: From Mustard to Shoes
Norwich has a fascinating industrial heritage that shaped its growth. The city was historically known for industries ranging from textiles and shoes to mustard, chocolate, and even aircraft manufacturing.
At the museum, you’ll find a variety of exhibits celebrating Norwich’s industrial past. One of the standout items is a model of the FE2B biplane produced by Boulton and Paul. The museum also showcases a restored Jacquard loom, one of the last surviving examples of the looms that once filled the city’s workshops.
If you love fashion, you’ll be amazed by Norwich’s role as a hub for shoe manufacturing. At its peak, 26 shoe factories were producing footwear for markets across the country, employing thousands of people. The museum displays some of the most glamorous shoes ever created in the city, highlighting how footwear styles have evolved over time.
The Pharmacy: A Peek into the Past
The museum’s pharmacy exhibit is a standout feature, offering a window into an early 20th-century chemist’s shop. The shelves and counters are lined with old-fashioned potions, pills, and medicines, each displayed in its original packaging.
The collection is fascinating, and while you can’t touch the items, the interactive displays allow you to open drawers and uncover what’s inside—making for an immersive experience that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Modern Norwich: Transformation in the 20th Century
In the section of the museum dedicated to modern history, you’ll learn about the dramatic changes Norwich underwent in the 1900s. The arrival of trains, water supply, and sewage systems transformed the city. The museum also delves into how Norwich citizens coped with the challenges of two world wars and the Great Depression.
Norwich was the first UK city to be bombed in World War II, and the museum’s exhibits reflect how the city was reshaped during this difficult time. There’s a fascinating section on how post-war life, council housing, and changes in leisure activities impacted the people of Norwich.
My son was particularly taken by the 1950s living room exhibit, which sparked a fun conversation about old-fashioned TVs and the lack of modern technology like smartphones—though he was convinced I must be ancient for having experienced black-and-white TV!
Plan Your Visit to the Museum of Norwich
The Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell is a must-visit destination for families seeking to explore the city’s diverse history. With interactive exhibits, temporary exhibitions, and plenty of hands-on activities, it’s an ideal place to learn and have fun with loved ones.
Opening Hours
The Museum of Norwich is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:30 pm, and closed on Sundays. Check the museum’s website for any changes to opening hours, especially during the holidays.
Admission Prices
Admission to the Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell is £7.80 for adults, £6.60 for children aged 4 to 18, and free for children under 4. Family discounts are available, and visitors with a Norfolk Museums Pass can enjoy free entry.
Getting to the Museum
The Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell is conveniently located in the city center, just a short five-minute walk from Norwich Market, Norwich Castle, and Norwich Cathedral. There is no nearby parking, but St Andrew’s Car Park on Duke Street is the closest option. Alternatively, use the Norwich Park & Ride service for a stress-free trip to the city. Buses stop at Castle Meadow, just five minutes from the museum.
If you’re arriving by train, the railway station is only a ten-minute walk away. For easy planning, I recommend using Google Maps to explore the best travel options to and from the museum.
Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell
Bridewell Alley, Norwich NR2 1AQ
Final Thoughts
The Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell is a treasure trove of history, offering an engaging and hands-on way for families to experience the city’s past. With exhibits for all ages, this museum is the perfect place for an educational outing with kids, and it’s sure to inspire curiosity about Norwich’s fascinating history.
What was your favorite exhibit? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or let me know if this post has inspired you to visit the Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell next time you’re in town!