Bishop Bonner's Cottage Museum

The three cottages are fascinating in themselves and are believed to have been built at different times.

For 2026 we have new displays on the history of Sport in Dereham, the Temperance Movement and the General Strike. Come and learn about our champions including Mr C J Wood, a runner, who held world records over several distances – 150 yards in 14.8 seconds, 220 yards in 21.6 seconds and 250 yards in 25.5 seconds.

Jem Mace discovered his talent for bare knuckle boxing when he was busking on his violin in Great Yarmouth and three drunks attacked him. He demonstrated his displeasure in no uncertain terms, and went on to become the World Heavyweight Boxing Champion in 1870. He was involved in drawing up the Queensberry rules which still govern boxing today. Jem made a fortune but died a pauper.

We also feature many sports clubs including Hobbies Union Football Club and the Jentique Bowls Club.

Turning to the Temperance Movement – Mr and Mrs Leman reopened the Coffee Tavern in the High Street and hoped ‘by constant attention to the comfort of their customers, to secure the support and patronage of the friends of temperance. Good well aired beds. Stabling for horses.’

Find out how the 1926 General Strike affected life in our area.

In addition to our modestly priced guides – Bishop Bonner’s Cottages, the Corn Hall and Cinema, and Dereham Assembly Rooms published by Dereham Heritage Trust, you will have the opportunity to buy one of our new tote bags!

Timings

Friday 11 September:

1000-1300

Saturday 12 September:

1000-1600

Friday 18 September:

1000-1300

Saturday 19 September:

1000-1600

Location & directions

St. Withburga Lane, Dereham, Norfolk, NR19 1ED

Directions:

The cottages are adjacent to St Nicholas' Church at the bottom of Church Street.

Contact on day:

Katie Goodman

Telephone number:

+447981280081

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Limited wheelchair access to two rooms on the ground floor. Narrow corridors and steep staircases. Assistance dogs admitted to ground floor only.

Additional information

Parking and refreshments are available nearby.

Max number of people:

20

Estimated duration:

1 hour(s)

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