At Broome Heath, two distinct traces of the Neolithic period can be explored: burial mounds and evidence of a settlement site. These are joined by Ditchingham’s architectural history, the gardens of Ditchingham Hall and the open space at Ditchingham Maltings. The character of the area therefore spans prehistoric monuments, designed garden spaces and a place for informal outdoor recreation. These offer different focuses for planning your visit: you can explore Ditchingham through its archaeology, historic buildings, gardens or a pedestrian connection.
Archaeology at Broome Heath
The visible Neolithic long barrow at Broome Heath measures about 50 metres long and 25 metres wide. The long barrow and round barrows at Broome Heath are designated as a Scheduled Monument. The Ditchingham barrow measures about 30 metres in diameter and is around two metres high. These measurements answer different questions: for the long barrow, they refer to length and width; for the Ditchingham barrow, to diameter and height. This lets you compare the forms without treating measurements based on different dimensions as equivalent.
A rare Neolithic settlement site was also located at Broome Heath. Excavations uncovered Neolithic flint tools and postholes. These settlement traces add a distinct archaeological theme to the burial mounds. If you are interested in the area’s prehistory, the finds and the different forms of the monuments offer several specific points of interest.
Architectural history and buildings
The former House of Mercy was built in 1859 to designs by Henry Woodyer and is considered an important early example of a purpose-built House of Mercy. The former Community House was a convent and was built for the Sisters of Mercy in 1876. St Mary’s Church has a tall, elegant west tower with pinnacles. Pinnacles are slender, pointed architectural features; here, the term describes a prominent detail of the tower. Together, these buildings illustrate different aspects of local history: a building with a particular purpose, a convent and a church tower with distinctive architectural features.
At the former All Hallows Convent, the entrance arch, walled garden and glasshouse are listed Grade II. This designation applies specifically to these three named elements of the former convent. For those interested in architectural history, this is a useful distinction: individual parts of the site are listed, rather than the entire complex being covered by a blanket designation.
Gardens and events
The gardens and pleasure grounds of Ditchingham Hall extend across about five hectares around the manor house. The garden includes an old walled garden with colour-themed garden areas, a rose garden and a pergola. Those particularly interested in garden design will find a distinct focus here, alongside the archaeological sites and historic buildings. Details about the different garden areas offer specific indications of what makes the grounds distinctive.
The Ditchingham Estate is open to the public for selected events; dates vary. If you are planning to visit for an event, check the dates in advance.
Open space and pedestrian connection
The open space at Ditchingham Maltings offers residents and visitors informal opportunities for recreation. It also provides a pedestrian connection between Ditchingham Dam and Ditchingham. This adds a practical point to consider when planning a walking visit, alongside the area’s historical and archaeological attractions. Route conditions can change; check the path conditions before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Holt, Necton, Langham, Fritton, Aylsham, Mattishall, Broome, Mundesley.
For the regional travel overview: Norfolk.
