Discover Norfolk’s Museums and Heritage Sites
Discover the stories, traditions, and charm of South Norfolk through its wonderful local museums and heritage attractions. From nostalgic steam engines and wartime history to the everyday life of Diss through the centuries, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring on a rainy afternoon or planning a relaxed cultural day out, these nearby spots offer a fascinating glimpse into the past — all within easy reach of Casa Barnette
Diss Museum
Right in the heart of Diss town centre, this charming community museum tells the story of local life through fascinating displays, old photographs, and quirky artefacts. Housed in the historic Shambles building on the Market Place, it’s run by friendly volunteers and offers a lovely glimpse into the area’s past — perfect for a relaxed visit before exploring the nearby cafés and shops.
100th Bomb Group Museum
Set in the original control tower of a former World War II airbase, this museum honours the American airmen of the 100th Bomb Group who served from Norfolk. It’s packed with personal stories, photographs, uniforms and memorabilia — a moving and fascinating visit for history lovers. Admission is free, with donations supporting its upkeep.
Bressingham Steam & Gardens
A fun mix of nostalgia and nature, Bressingham Steam & Gardens combines beautiful landscaped gardens with working steam engines, heritage vehicles and the much-loved Dad’s Army exhibition. Take a gentle train ride through the grounds, explore the museum halls, or enjoy a picnic among the flowers — a brilliant day out for families and garden enthusiasts alike.
Norwich Castle
This iconic Norman keep in the heart of Norwich houses art, archaeology and natural history under one roof. Highlights include the West Runton mammoth bones, fine decorative arts, and galleries dedicated to the city’s craft and design heritage.
Norfolk Tank Museum
A must-visit for military vehicle enthusiasts, this museum features a large collection of armoured vehicles, tanks, and Cold War era exhibits. Guests often highlight the immersive outdoor displays and interactive feel.
Strangers’ Hall Museum
Set in a 14th-century merchant’s house, this museum explores domestic life across the centuries. Wander through period rooms from medieval, Tudor and Georgian eras, giving a real sense of how people lived in Norwich through time.
The Flint House Museum
A small but fascinating local museum housed in a 17th-century flint cottage. It showcases Brandon’s history of flint knapping, rabbit fur trade, and early rural life — a real hidden gem for those who love local heritage.
Mid Suffolk Light Railway Museum
This award-winning heritage railway brings Suffolk’s only standard-gauge light railway back to life. Ride on restored steam trains, visit the small museum, and enjoy the café and picnic area — great fun for families and railway enthusiasts alike.
Food Museum
This open-air attraction tells the story of how food and rural life have shaped the region. Explore historic barns, gardens and hands-on exhibits — it’s relaxed, interesting, and full of local character.
Norfolk & Suffolk Aviation Museum
A surprisingly large collection in a peaceful rural setting, this volunteer-run museum features over 60 aircraft and fascinating personal stories from wartime aviation. It’s free to enter and very family-friendly, with picnic areas and a café on site.
Our local recommendations are shared to help you make the most of your stay and are based on local knowledge at the time of writing. We are not affiliated with any third-party businesses listed and cannot be held responsible for changes to opening times, pricing or availability.
We recommend checking directly with venues before visiting.