Collection details
Architecture, Archives, Aviation, Costume and Textiles, Design, Fine Art, Industry, Land Transport, Law and Order, Medicine, Photography, Science and Technology, Social History, Sport, Toys and Hobbies, Trade and Commerce, Weapons and War
The Bridewell is a Grade I listed building and presents many obstacles for those with mobility problems. The building is inaccessible to wheelchair users and has many steps. However, work is currently underway to improve access to all.
The Curator is happy to arrange talks/collections access off site for those unable to visit the museum.
Assistance dogs are welcome and there are many handling collections available for all.
There is an induction loop at the entrance and portable loops for other areas.
Those with concerns should call our shop on 01603 629127 for friendly advice.
The Undercroft is currently inacessible - a photopack is available to view.
Our library is open by appointment only.
Core Times
Tues - Fri: 10am - 4.30pm
Sat: 10am - 5pm
Closed Sun & Mon
School half-terms, Easter & summer holidays
Tues - Sat: 10am - 5pm
Closed Sun & Mon
Admission charges
Adult: £3.20
Concession*: £2.65
Child: £1.75
Family Ticket: £8.85
Museums Pass, Friends of the Norwich Museums and C&TA free. *Disabled visitors, over 60s and students.
Discounts
Museums Association
Description
The Bridewell started life as a rich merchant's house in 1325. It became a prison for women and beggars (a ‘Bridewell’) in 1585 and in the mid 18th century became a conventional prison. From 1828 it earned its keep as a factory and warehouse for tobacco, leather, boots and shoes. It became a museum in 1925 and now houses a wonderful collection of historic objects and machinery revealing how Norwich people earned their living.
Collections description
The Bridewell is packed full of collections, telling the story of Norwich's rich history and it's people. Highlights include an original Jacquard loom, Norwich shawls, shoes, the first wire netting machine, Shand Mason fire engine, printing presses, chemist shop, recreated pawnbrokers shop and Norwich City Football Club display. The collection is housed in a fascinating building, with the finest flint wall in Britain and largest medieval undercroft in Norwich.
Available resources
Victorian Norwich
Resource or activity pack; Website; Worksheets or templates
General Information
Brochure or leaflet available with directions to museum
Pre-booking service for groups
Information point provided
Collections
Specialist publications on collections available
Object identification and/or written enquiry service
Object study facilities available (enquire in advance)
Public access available to collections information
Disability Access
Events/teaching/resources for people with disabilities
Large print information and/or interpretation
Sign language interpretation available
Touch exhibits and/or handling sessions
Children and Families
Activities for pre-school children
Baby changing facilities
Children's play area
Events and resources for children and families
Indoor soft play area
General Education
Academic publications and resources available
Adult lectures and courses held
Education facilities available
Loan service
Member of staff available with responsibility for education
Reception and lunch facilities for educational groups
Teaching/resources available for HE/FE students
Schools Education
Direct teaching services for schools
Primary school education service available
Printed/audio-visual information available for schools
Secondary school education service available
Facilities
Library
Meeting room available
Object study facilities available (enquire in advance)
Research facilities for academics
Shop
Study facilities
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