Bawdeswell: Historic Houses, Village Cinema and Foxley Wood

Bawdeswell combines historic houses and local attractions with nearby nature. The Gables and Chaucer House offer different perspectives on building history and architecture. The Treetops Adventure play area is in the Millennium Garden; Bawdeswell Village Cinema, All Saints Church and The Horkey Kitchen add to what the village has to offer. Foxley Wood provides a distinct focus nearby. You’ll find topics for a stay here that vary according to history, activities, food and nature.

Historic Houses and Building Phases

The Gables began as a house in the 16th century; its main wing dates from 1781. The main wing therefore belongs to a later building phase than the original house. Chaucer House is a timber-framed house with jettied upper storeys dating from the 15th or 16th century. A jettied upper storey projects beyond the exterior wall below, giving the façade a distinctive shape. The dating of Chaucer House deliberately spans two centuries. Different features are therefore relevant for comparison: at The Gables, these are the building phases; at Chaucer House, they are the timber framing and the shape of the storeys.

Church Service, Garden and Cinema

The service at All Saints Church takes place every Sunday at 10:30 am and lasts 45 minutes. Take the time into account when planning your day, and check the time in advance, as service times may change. The Millennium Garden at Cherry Lane Bawdeswell opened in 2000 to celebrate the new millennium. The Treetops Adventure play area is located in the garden.

Bawdeswell Village Cinema currently shows at least one film per month; the programme may change. Check current screening times if you’d like to include a film night in your travel plans. The cinema has accessible toilets, parking and step-free access for wheelchair users. Check these facilities before travelling if your plans depend on them.

Foxley Wood Nearby

Foxley Wood is near Bawdeswell and is the largest remaining ancient woodland in the county. Its long-term management has created a species-rich habitat for many plants and animals. Alongside the village’s architectural history, this offers a nature-focused perspective in which both the woodland and the development of its habitat play a part. For nature enthusiasts, long-term management is just as much a part of this picture as the variety of plants and animals found there.

Food and the Journey to Norwich

The Horkey Kitchen serves breakfast and lunch featuring local produce. Themed evenings are held twice a month, including tapas, pie and mash, and Greek cuisine; themes may vary. Homemade cakes, scones and sandwiches, as well as tea and Americano coffee, are also available. Booking is required for some offerings. Breakfast and lunch are distinct dining options alongside the themed evenings and dishes that require a booking. Check in advance which theme is on during your visit.

The X29 bus between Bawdeswell and Norwich runs every half hour during the day. Check the current timetable before setting off for a specific journey.

Discover more destinations: Bircham Newton, Loddon, Wighton, Beechamwell, East Runton, Taverham, Baconsthorpe, Wroxham.

For the broader travel guide: Norfolk.