Please note that the postcard from series
ended in 2004 and that descriptions of shops and services were correct at
time of going to press
Where
is it:
Turn off the A10 about 10 miles south of King's Lynn, or head along
the A1122 from Swaffham or Wisbech. Downham is also one of the major
stops on the Lynn-London railway line, a crucial factor in its growth
in recent years.
What's the population:
Upwards of 7500, and rising all the time, thanks to the hundreds
of new homes being built. Still more are in the pipeline, which
has caused concern about the pressure on schools, doctors' surgeries
and other services.
Best-known landmarks:
The unusual black and white clock in the Market Place, which was
presented to the town by grocer, draper and clothier James Scott
in 1878, has become Downham's most famous feature. Scott's initials
can be seen in the weather-vane at the top. It's also worth climbing
up the carrstone edge which explains the meaning of Downham's name
- "settlement on the hill" to take a look at St Edmund's
Church.
Downham Market, in the background is the town's unusual clock,
19th July 1967
Defining
moment in history:
Charles I went to Downham after the Battle of Naseby and Lord Horatio
Nelson spent part of his schooldays there. Riots took place in the
town in May, 1816 as a tide of discontent swept the nation in the
wake of the Napoleonic Wars. The opening of the railway in 1846
was to have a far-reaching effect on local trade and posterity.
Electrification of the line in 1992 was the icing on the cake.
Most likely to see:
House hunters, who could well be eyeing up potential retirement
or second homes, or fleeing the spiralling property prices of Ely,
Cambridge and the like.
Best place for a drink:
The traditional bar of the centuries-old Crown Hotel is a favourite
haunt for many, but there are several other watering holes, including
the Live and Let Live on London Road, which are worthy of a visit.
And a bite to eat:
Most culinary tastes are catered for. There are varied menus in
the pubs and hotels or you can take your pick from the chippies,
Chinese takeaways, kebab shop and Downham's Tandoori and
Balti House and the Dang Thai Restaurant in Bridge Street.
Any opportunities for retail therapy:
A few national chains are represented but Downham still has some
independently-run stores. Allow time for a ramble around Harry Reed
and Son, the sort of department store rarely seen in a town of this
size nowadays. More recent arrivals include Breeze, which sells
a tempting array of gifts and home interiors goodies in the High
Street. Don't miss the market on Fridays and Saturdays.
Denver Windmill
What to do after
dark:
It's not really a place for night owls.
Must see before you leave:
The Collectors' World of Eric St-John Foti, at Hermitage Hall,
is an eclectic mix of everything from Armstrong-Siddeleys to Barbara
Cartland memorabilia. Denver Windmill, a mile south of the town,
has been restored to full working order and is open to visitors.
How to pretend you're a local:
Have an opinion on the controversial £1.5m redevelopment
planned for the town centre - a big local talking point in recent
months.
