Dereham 23/11/02

With its roots in the dark ages Dereham is more than just a town bypassed by the A47. Gill Jenkins finds out what it has to offer.

Where is it:

According to new research Dereham is the dead centre of Norfolk - well at least the town's Tesco car park is. It is 15 miles west of Norwich off the A47, and has good links with other towns in the county. The Mid-Norfolk Railway runs trains between the town and Wymondham, and it is hoped to one day run a daily service linking the town with main line routes.

What's the population:

It currently stands at around 15,000. But several new estates will breathe new life into the town centre through redevelopment.

Best-known landmarks:

St Nicholas Church, with its separate bell tower, dominates the town centre. Georgian buildings welcome visitors to the High Street, and are also dotted around the market place.

Defining moment in history:

The decision by Withburga, daughter of a Saxon king, to set up a religious community in the deer park - which gives the town its name - after being inspired by a vision of the Virgin Mary must be among the town's defining moments. After her death pilgrims flocked to her grave, until her body was whisked away by the Abbot of Ely, jealous of the prosperity brought to the town by the pilgrims. Legend has it that a spring with magical properties immediately filled the desecrated tomb forming the Withburga Well which can still be seen today.

Most likely to see:

Market day shoppers eager to snap up a bargain on a Tuesday or Friday.

Best place for a drink:

Teashops and cafés abound with the Olive Grove serving up the best cappuccinos in town. For those looking for something stronger, The George Hotel at the top of Swaffham Hill can't really be beaten and serves up a mean selection of potato wedges and chilli.

And a bite to eat:

The Bakers Oven serves up a selection of pastry-based treats and its prime location means it is always popular. Also try the Portuguese restaurant A Cascata, and the Akaash for Indian restaurant and takeaway meals.

Any opportunities for retail therapy

Plenty. As well as the usual array of national retailers, the town is also home to a range of independent shopkeepers, including GD Cook and Sons, which stocks a range of leather goods; and Finishing Touches sells everything from picture frames to fairies. Dereham is also home to a branch of Palmers department store.

The 500 year-old Bishop Bonner Cottage

What to do after dark:

Plenty of pubs; Dereham is also home to one night club and numerous take-aways.

Must see before you leave:

The 500-year-old Bishop Bonners Cottage which also houses the town's museum, is popular with townsfolk and visitors.

How to pretend you're a local:

The town has become a bit of a melting pot for different nationalities and races in recent times, so, no matter who you are or where you come from, you will fit in quite easily.