2: The Market Place

The Market Place is the focal point of the eastern end of Wymondham, and has a bronze cast of a reconstruction of Wymondham ca. 1530. Produced in celebration of the 900th anniversary of the founding of Wymondham Abbey. From this ‘hill high point’ streets radiate outwards and downwards. On the opposite side of the Market Place is the Cross Keys Inn, a fine example of the pre-Georgian era building. Next to the inn is Anchor House with an elaborate Victorian porch.

Where the Co-op supermarket now stands was the site of the King’s Head, the premier coaching inn and meeting place of the town. It was demolished in the 1960s. The name is remembered in the King’s Head Meadow off Back Lane, the site of the playing fields.

King John granted Wymondham a Charter in 1204 which allowed it to hold a market and become a Market Town. The market flourished and was a highly important part of the town life until the arrival of the railway in 1845. A Friday market continues in the Market Place 9am – 2.30pm and a farmers’ market held on the third Saturday of every month 9am – 1pm.

WALK >> with the Co-op on your left, walk down Bridewell Street and stop by the fine half-timbered Manor House next to the Queen’s Head.