Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse (Dereham) - Visitor Information & Reviews

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Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse and its collection

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Discover Norfolk’s rural history over 50 acres of glorious countryside, from the traditional working farm to the lives of the residents of the Victorian workhouse. Step back in time at this fascinating historical site, where you can uncover what life was like for some of Norfolk’s poorest people in a Victorian workhouse. Originally opened in 1777 as a House of Industry, Gressenhall’s collections and interactive displays bring to life the real stories of workhouse staff and inmates - how they ate, slept, worked, and played through the ages. As the home of the Museum of Norfolk Life, Gressenhall celebrates the county’s rich agricultural heritage. Wander through Village Row to explore the general store, forge, seed merchants, and Cherry Tree Cottage, all filled with goods from a bygone era. See Norfolk’s oldest working car, a rare 1899 Panhard et Levassor, once owned by Charles Rolls. Follow the story of farming from its Neolithic roots to the Women’s Land Army, and meet the rare Suffolk Punch horses, cattle, pigs, and Norfolk Horn sheep on the working farm.

ENMuseum of Norfolk Life

ENGressenhall Farm and Workhouse, Museum of Norfolk Life

Specialized & Alternative Science & Technology Agriculture Historic house Photography Profession & Craft Animals Local

#119 Science & Technology in England #10 Agriculture museums in England #25 Animal museums in England #19 Local museums in England #18 Photography museums in England #11 Profession & craft museums in England #136 Science & Technology in United Kingdom #15 Agriculture museums in United Kingdom #30 Animal museums in United Kingdom #23 Local museums in United Kingdom #22 Photography museums in United Kingdom #17 Profession & craft museums in United Kingdom #61 Agriculture museums in Europe #42 Local museums in Europe #78 Photography museums in Europe #132 Profession & craft museums in Europe

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Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse

Gressenhall

NR20 4DR Dereham

England

Images of Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse

Visitor information Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse

Opening hours

Monday	10:00 – 17:00
Tuesday	10:00 – 17:00
Wednesday	10:00 – 17:00
Thursday	10:00 – 17:00
Friday	10:00 – 17:00
Saturday	10:00 – 17:00
Sunday	10:00 – 17:00

More opening hours

Admission

0 – 3	Free
4 – 18	£14.50
Adults	£17.00
Means tested benefits	Free

We offer a discount on adult admission at £15.50 when purchased with a paid child ticket
We offer free admission for:
- people who receive means-tested benefits including Universal Credit and Pension Credit. Includes all children in those households.
- Norfolk Museums Pass holders
- select groups and partners. Please see website for full list and eligibility.

More ticket prices

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible

Museum shop

Coffee

Restaurant

Child-friendly

Parking

Location & Map

Gressenhall, Dereham

Discover all museums in Dereham

Exhibitions

Now on display
Through the Microscope: secrets of Norfolk's changing landscape with Edible East
Mar 17, 2025 – Nov 2, 2025

More exhibitions

Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse Reviews

Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse has 1 rating.

Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse offers visitors a comprehensive look into rural Norfolk life and the history of the poor law system. The museum is set in a former workhouse, providing an authentic backdrop for its exhibits.

The farm section allows visitors to experience traditional agricultural practices, with opportunities to see rare breed animals and seasonal demonstrations of farm work. This hands-on approach is particularly engaging for families and children.

The workhouse exhibits provide a sobering yet educational insight into the lives of the poor in 19th-century England. The recreated rooms and personal stories of inmates offer a poignant perspective on social history.

The museum's grounds are well-maintained and include beautiful gardens, which provide a pleasant area for relaxation and reflection. The on-site cafe receives positive mentions for its quality refreshments.

While many visitors find the museum informative and engaging, some note that certain areas could benefit from updated displays or more interactive elements. Additionally, the size of the site means it can take a full day to explore thoroughly, which might be tiring for some visitors.

Overall, Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse provides a valuable educational experience, effectively balancing the harsh realities of workhouse life with the more positive aspects of rural heritage. Its mix of indoor and outdoor attractions makes it suitable for various weather conditions, though visitors are advised to allow plenty of time to fully appreciate all it has to offer.

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Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse