A Big Thank You!

Glorious First Heritage Open Day Brings the Town to Life

Sunshine, smiling faces, and a wonderful sense of community spirit made our very first Heritage Open Day an unforgettable success. Thanks to the combined efforts of dedicated volunteers, supportive property owners, and the invaluable help of the Town Council, our town opened its doors – and its heart – to visitors from near and far.

Throughout the day, private homes and historic buildings welcomed hundreds of curious guests, eager to explore hidden corners of our heritage. The Courthouse alone greeted 762 visitors, the Gate Lodge counted 833, and the National School stopped tallying after 600 – a testament to the enthusiasm of both locals and visitors. Many other venues reported similarly strong attendance, including Bank House and garden, which was the only open garden and proved a particular delight; and Barry Hawkins Auctioneers, who opened their historically important stables for all to see.

Visitors were transported around the town by four vintage buses, one dating back to 1951, and another, an Eastern Counties Bristol VR double decker, worked its way through the narrow streets of the town centre filled with enthusiastic visitors and locals a like.

The streets came alive with colour and music. The re-enactment groups, ‘Knights of Skirbeck‘, The English Civil War Society and local amateur dramatics players: Watlington Players and Melody Allsorts of Downham,  entertained and informed, while the Molly Dancers added a lively, traditional flair. A borrowed Town Crier, Mike Wabe, came all the way from Watton especially to help us out and lent the day extra charm, while The Rock Choir and The Breakaways Ukulele Group kept spirits high with their joyful performances. Crafts, photography, and art exhibitions drew steady crowds, and the delightful post-box topper in Wales Court became an unexpected talking point – so admired that it remains proudly in place.

A particular highlight was the art exhibition by a local art group, which displayed an impressive variety of work – some pieces deservedly finding new homes as they were sold during the day. Equally popular was the railway station’s special opening, featuring a captivating exhibition of historic photographs and a fascinating video presentation on the operation of the town’s Grade II listed signal box, giving visitors a rare glimpse into its workings and heritage. Inside Discover Downham, Mike Bullen put on an outstanding “Then and now” photographic display, vividly highlighting Downham’s historic past and sparking many conversations among visitors.

Special thanks go to the Downham Market volunteers, who worked tirelessly before and during the event, and to the many organisations and individuals whose behind-the-scenes help made the day possible. We are especially grateful to the Town Council staff, who were out at an “unearthly hour” putting up gazebos while most of us were still fast asleep, and to the local police, whose cheerful presence was warmly appreciated. Local businesses also played a crucial role, offering sponsorship, displaying posters, and distributing leaflets – without their generous support, this inaugural venture could never have got off the ground.

While feedback was overwhelmingly positive, some visitors wished for more guided town walks, including the very popular Church and Cemetery tours – a sign of the keen interest our history inspires. We are already exploring the idea of additional (and possibly bookable) summer walks to meet this demand.

Above all, this Heritage Open Day was about community. From the vintage cars and buses to the smiling visitors exploring hidden gems, the day showcased the best of what our town has to offer. To every venue brave enough to open their doors for the first time, and to everyone who lent their time and talents: thank you.

Plans are already stirring for the next one. If the joy and laughter of this inaugural event are anything to go by, the next Heritage Open Day promises to be even more spectacular.

Why not join us!