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:
Wymondham is about nine miles south of Norwich, with the A11 providing
excellent links between the two. The new train service between Norwich
and Cambridge, which stops in the town, should really put it on
the map. You're also surrounded by plenty of little villages such
as Wreningham, Ashwellthorpe and Little Melton.
What's the population:
On the up and up. The town is earmarked for development and new
housing is popping up everywhere. Last estimates put the population
at 12,000.
Best-known landmarks:
It has to be that Market Cross, happily pictured on every postcard,
painting, letterhead and sign. Also Wymondham College is one of
our leading schools with parents desperate for young ones to gain
a place
Defining moment in history:
The opening of the upmarket Waitrose supermarket a couple of years
ago which propelled the town into the posh league! But historically
it has to be Kett's Rebellion back in 1549 which saw Robert Kett
and his band of men storm Norwich in a protest about the enclosure
of common land. Poor Robert was hanged from the castle although
Kett's Oak, the rallying point for the rebels, still exists on the
road between Wymondham and Hethersett.
Wymondham's famous Market Cross
Most likely to see:
Leading lights from Norfolk Police as the new HQ is on the town's
outskirts and a few Lotus engineers from the company's nearby base
at Hethel.
Best place for a drink:
Old-timers like the no-nonsense Feathers with its real ale, otherwise
the Lemon Tree cafe serves up a very good cup of coffee with children
loving the milk shakes.
And a bite to eat:
Brief Encounter at the town's railway station is atmospheric as
well as a great place for a snack or spot of afternoon tea. Nearby,
the Three Boars at Spooner Row does good modern British cuisine, but you may need to book.
Wymondham Abbey
Any opportunities for retail therapy:
Rather! Shops are improving all the time. There's still your Woolies
and a little Boots plus more exclusive numbers such as the Light
Works on Damgate Street. Two rather hippy dippy shops for gifts,
bits and pieces for the house and general treats include Timbuktu
and Curiosity Killed The Cat. Also check out the numerous antique
and junkyard find shops.
After dark:
Wymondham doesn't exactly rave after dark but the two main restaurants,
the Shapla Tandoori, and the Italian/Moroccan, the Casablanca, are
fun
Must see:
Don't miss the Abbey which was founded in 1107. The Norman nave,
the 15th century timber roof and the golden altar screen are impressive.
And call in at Merv's Hot Bread shop for a taste of Norfolk knobs
- delicious!
How to pretend you're a local:
Adopt a southern accent and talk about how much cheaper it is to
live in Wymondham than Cambridge and all points south.
