14 April 2026: Talk - There's something about Diss

There's something about Diss: an exploration of its vernacular buildings and discussion of the town.

Join us for this talk by Jess Johnston, Heritage Consultant.

Diss is a small market town on the Norfolk and Suffolk borders, built around a six acre Mere. It lies within the heavy clay, wood-pasture region of South Norfolk. In the 1960's John Betjeman was an advocate for the town and fought to stop London overspill. He commented on "The happy inconsequence of everything, the way old houses go well with less old ones" It is likely that the town was rebuilt around 1280 under the instruction of Lord of the manor Robert Fitzwalter.

During the 1400s to early 1800s hempen linen and cloth weaving were the predominant industry in the town. In the early 19th century, the linen trade declined but, in its place, farming prospered. The coming of the railway to Diss in 1849 enabled it to thrive once again. The medieval layout is still evident today and Jess will discuss how this has evolved through the centuries. She will also share explorations into the vernacular buildings of Diss which has interesting examples of carved dragon posts, queen post roof structures, and 18th century weaving lofts.

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When: 14 April 2026, 2:30pm to 3:30pm

Where: Ancient House Museum, 21 White Hart Street, Thetford, IP24 1AA

Cost: £5 or free for Norfolk Museums Service Passholders and Ancient House Friends

Contact: Call 01842 752599 or email ancienthouse@norfolk.gov.uk