At A Glance:
- A lovely, family-friendly Norfolk day out
- Interesting, interactive museum
- Outside walks and adventure play area
- On-site farm
- Café, shop, ample parking and toilets
- Regular events
Gressenhall: Museum of Norfolk Life
Situated just outside Dereham, and about 20-30 minutes drive from Norwich, in the centre of Norfolk, Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse is a fantastic day out for all the family.
A former Workhouse for the poor, Gressenhall is set within beautiful and extensive grounds, which include a working farm, a Centenary Wood and an Orchard.
The main Workhouse building houses the Workhouse Galleries and the Museum of Norfolk Life . There is much to get children interested and inspired, including several puzzles and hands-on activities throughout.
The surrounding buildings, which include a shop, a school and Cherry Tree Cottage have been authentically fitted out to reflect days gone by. The traditional cottage garden is beautiful and certainly one of our favourites.
A favourite with the children though, has to be the impressive outdoor adventure play area (recently revamped). It boasts slides, swinging things and climbing opportunities-a-plenty. There is even a separate area for the under-5s. On nice days, this alone is enough to occupy energetic youngsters, while the adjacent grass and benches are perfect for a spot of picnic lunch.
Also perfect for the younger visitor, though lovely for all ages, is the Farm and River Walk. Pick up a stamp-card at the ticket desk and collect the stamps as you walk round to get a Gressenhall badge at the end.
Throw in a ride in the tractor-trailer, farm animals (with babies depending on the time of year!), Nature Watch cameras and plenty of space and places to explore, and you’ll discover that Gressenhall really is one full and fun day out.
Finally, take a load off with a scone and a cup of tea in the café before heading home.
A beautiful, fun and very interesting day out that you’ll want to repeat (we usually end up visiting several times a year).
EnjoyNorwich tip: A Museum Pass is by far the most cost-effective way to visit most of the museums across Norwich and Norfolk, particularly if you are a resident and can use it regularly throughout the year.
Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse.
Gressenhall, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 4DR.
