5: The Bridewell

Today the Bridewell is the Wymondham Heritage Museum.

Wymondham had a Bridewell or house of correction from 1618. This was located at the Game Place which had formerly been used for staging plays during major Christian festivals. The present building was constructed in 1785 along lines suggested by the notable prison reformer, John Howard.

It was the Divisional County Prison until 1825 and a women’s house of correction from 1831 to 1878. From 1850 until 1963 it was used as the county Police Station and later as the local Magistrates Court. The Magistrates Court closed in 1991. The building is managed by the Bridewell Preservation Trust and today is the home of the Wymondham Heritage Museum, Bridewell Tearoom and the Wymondham Heritage Society as well as providing residential accommodation.

Please pop in to discover Wymondham’s stories, enjoy the tearoom and a rest in the lovely courtyard if you have time.

WALK >> continue along Avenue Road until you see Fairland, the triangular green at the junction with Fairland Street, taking care when crossing as this is a busy road.