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Whether you’ve just wandered in with a camera around your neck or you’ve lived here long enough to know which café serves the strongest coffee, this guide is your trusty companion to everything Downham Market has to offer.
Inside, you’ll find the best bits all in one place: things to see and do, fascinating history, where to grab a plate of something delicious, where to shop, and plenty more. We’ve packed in loads of useful and essential contacts too. There’s even a handy map so you can make the most of your time here in the Gingerbread Town.
Downham Market is one of those places that rewards curiosity. Peek down the side streets. Step inside that tiny shop with the hand-painted sign. Follow the sound of the bustling market. Whether you are lucky enough to call it home, or are here for a visit, Downham Market has something for everyone and will not leave you disappointed!
The name Downham comes from the Anglo-Saxon words for ‘down’ meaning hill and ‘ham’ meaning home. Downham Market – homes on the hill with a market.
The town was built on the escarpment of sand, carrstone and clay which rises approximately 36 metres from the Great Ouse River to the A10. The carrstone (the local building stone) is an iron rich rustybrown sandstone which gives the town its name of ‘The Gingerbread Town’.
Since Anglo-Saxon times Downham Market has been standing at the far western edge of Norfolk, overlooking the Fens. It’s ideally situated at the crossing of roads from north to south and east to west on the bank of the navigable Great Ouse River with easy access to the rich natural resources of the Fens. As an agricultural and commercial hub, Downham has one of the country’s oldest continuously operating markets. In the past, the market’s traded cattle, pigs, butter, vegetables and other produce and even William Howlett’s wife.
With a corn exchange, maltings, brickworks, brass foundry, the renowned Dobson’s bell foundry, corn and flax mills, Downham was a thriving centre. It was home to some notable nurserymen including Joseph Harrison, author of one of the first gardening magazines, and James Bird’s American Nurseries.
The Horse Fair was held on St. Winnold’s Day, March 3rd for three days. Originally held at Wereham, it moved to Downham in 1802 until finally closing in WWII. It was the third largest in Europe at its height. It filled the streets with horses and traders. Thousands of people would participate and reputedly up to 10,000 horses would be bought and sold. One year, it supplied the Emperor Napoleon with a horse.
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In October, farm workers, labourers, and servants would gather at the Statute Fair, known locally as the Status Fair, where potential employers would hire workers for the next 12 months.
Between April 30th and May 2nd 1646, Charles I stayed in The Swan Inn during his escape from Cromwell’s New Model Army. Whilst in Downham, he had his hair cut by a local barber, bought a new hat to complete his disguise as a clergyman and made enquiries amongst royalist friends in the area while waiting for the return of chaplain Dr. Michael Hudson from negotiations with the Scottish Army at Newark. The Scots agreed to give him protection and so, at this point local legend tells us that Charles travelled across the treacherous Fens guided by Mucky Porter of Southery. However, the Scots sold him back to Cromwell for £100,000.
In 1816, the tranquil peace of the town was disrupted by rioters from Southery and other villages chanting “Bread or Blood” and demanding that magistrates release men imprisoned for poaching and increase the rate for agricultural wages to two shillings a week. There followed three days of rioting which ended with the arrival of the Upwell yeomanry and the arrest of rioters. The Downham Rioters were tried in Norwich where Daniel Harwood and Thomas Thoday were hanged and others transported to Australia.
The opening of the railway in 1846 marked a further expansion of the town’s business interests and the industrial development of the area closest to the railway station. Most prominent was Bird’s Eagle Roller Mills which used the latest steam driven technology. Unlike the many windmills in the area, it still operates today as Heygates Mill, but driven by electricity not steam.
The 1800s social reforms and civic pride saw the construction of a number of notable buildings including the Town Hall, Police Station, Court House, Union Workhouse, National School, Board School and the iconic clock tower. However, only the Town Hall and clock tower retain their original function.
K. Wiseman
Nestled in the heart of West Norfolk, the historic town of Downham Market has a charm that’s hard to resist. Known locally as “Downham,” it’s the kind of place where shopping and eating aren’t rushed experiences but rather opportunities to slow down, chat with locals, and soak up the character of the community.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or just passing through, you’ll find that Downham offers plenty of reasons to linger. From bustling market stalls to independent shops and welcoming cafés, here’s a friendly guide to shopping and eating in this lovely town.
The Heart of Town: The Market: Downham Market has hosted markets for centuries, and the tradition lives on every Friday and Saturday in the town square. Stalls offer everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts, with the chance to chat to local growers and bakers. Seasonal fruit and vegetables are the highlight— juicy strawberries in summer, hearty roots in winter.
Shops with Character: One of the joys of shopping in Downham is discovering its independent shops. Unlike larger towns that often have the same high-street chains, Downham offers a more unique experience.
Take a stroll along the High Street and you’ll find boutiques selling clothing, gifts, and homewares that you simply won’t come across elsewhere. There are bookshops where you can lose track of time browsing second-hand treasures, and craft shops that stock supplies for your next creative project. If you’re hunting for antiques or quirky finds, there are a handful of spots tucked away that will reward the curious explorer.
The atmosphere is relaxed, and the shopkeepers are usually happy to stop for a chat. That’s one of the perks of shopping in a town like this, you don’t feel like just another face in the crowd.
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Eating Out: Downham has plenty of places to eat, with options to suit every mood...
Cafés & Tea Rooms: Take a relaxing break from shopping in the town’s cosy cafés, where you’ll find homemade cakes, fresh coffee, traditional tea, and light bites made with local ingredients—perfect for a friendly catch-up or a quiet moment with a book.
Pubs & Traditional Fare: Downham’s pubs serve hearty classics like pies, roasts, and fish and chips, along with generous portions and a warm welcome. Many also offer local ales and ciders for a true taste of Norfolk.
Restaurants & Takeaways: Beyond pubs and cafés, the town offers global flavours from Indian and Chinese to Italian pizza. Takeaways are popular too- perfect for enjoying by the River Great Ouse.
Sweet Treats & Local Flavours: Downham’s bakeries tempt with buns, tarts, and savouries, while summer brings locally made ice cream. Don’t miss Norfolk’s cheeses, chutneys, and jamsideal as souvenirs or snacks for the journey home!
A Relaxed Day Out: What makes shopping and eating in Downham so enjoyable is the pace of it all. Unlike a city centre where everything feels hurried, this town invites you to take your time. Have a wander through the market, stop for a chat, sit down for a slice of cake, and browse a few independent shops.
It’s a reminder that shopping doesn’t always have to be about efficiency; it can be about connection, discovery, and simple pleasures. Eating, too, becomes less about grabbing something quick and more about enjoying good food in good company.
Final Thoughts: Downham might not shout the loudest, but that’s exactly its appeal. It’s a town where tradition and friendliness go hand in hand, and where shopping and eating still feel like community experiences. Whether you’re picking up fresh produce, hunting for unique gifts, or tucking into a comforting pub lunch, you’ll leave with not just a full shopping bag or a satisfied stomach, but also a sense of warmth that only a place like Downham can offer.
Come and pay us a visit!
The Reed’s name has been associated with Downham Market for well over a hundred years. Today, Reeds Homestore is a family-owned business renowned for its service. We offer a huge choice of quality, leading brand products at very competitive prices covering every room in the house. It is an amazing hidden gem with no less than 27,000 sq.ft. full of furniture and other products from all over the world. While you’re here pop into our café offering delicious freshly made food and drink.
Things to see & do in
Ready to explore Downham Market?
Nestled in West Norfolk, this quaint little gem is brimming with history, character, and lovely local spots. Here’s a friendly, informal guide to soaking up the best of town, and a couple of neat places just a short drive away!
Stroll Around Town:
• The Iconic Clock Tower: Right in the heart of the Market Square stands the famously striking black-and-white Town Clock. Built in 1878 and carefully restored in 2004, its cast-iron charm and nightly illumination make it one of Downham’s most endearing and photographed sights.
• Wander the Gingerbread Town: Downham’s architecture is the reason it’s fondly named the ‘Gingerbread Town’, this is due to its warm-hued carrstone buildings. Wander around the streets and you’ll feel like you’ve ventured into a storybook, especially near St. Edmund’s Church, the only Grade I–listed building in town. You can read more about the Gingerbread Trail on pages 25-28.
• Visit Discover Downham Heritage Centre: This heritage centre offers interactive displays, local history, and the starting point for the charming Gingerbread Trail around town. The friendly team are always on hand to share their knowledge and help out.
• Downham Market Town Hall: Built for Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee in 1887, this Renaissance Revival building is Grade II-listed with plenty of architectural flair, and hosts events and gatherings. Good for a quick peek inside!
• Pay Respects at the War Memorial: Quiet and respectful, the memorial honours locals who fell in both World Wars. It’s sobering, moving, and bears the crown-and-arrows symbol of the town.
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Outdoors & Markets:
• Friday & Saturday Market: Pop by on market days to browse baked goods, fresh produce, clothes, crafts, you name it! The market is thriving and offers insight to a charming, buzzing bit of local life.
• Riverside Walks Along the Great Ouse: Follow the Fen Rivers Way Path past the riverbank, immerse yourself in nature, let the water views relax you, maybe stop by a riverside pub for some refreshment before continuing.
• Meet the Animals at Watatunga: Just outside town, you’ll find Watatunga Wildlife Reserve. A great day out for the whole family, take a tour of the park in a buggy, meet the animals, you can even book a safari stay for an extended visit. watatunga.co.uk
Within 5 Minutes by Car: Want to venture just a little further?
• Denver Windmill: This beautiful Grade II-listed windmill, built in 1835, is a true rural gem and only a stone’s throw away.
• Stow Hall Gardens: A short drive will take you to these gorgeous 20-acre gardens, home to over 200 varieties of rose, perfect for a peaceful escape or a countryside stroll (pictured to the left).
Downham Market is a little town doing big charm with its unique architecture, buzzing market, river walks, and nearby countryside escapes. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, casual walker, or just here for good company, there’s a bit of Downham Market waiting just for you!
If you’ve got a four-legged friend and find yourself in Downham Market, you’re in luck! This little Norfolk town isn’t just a nice spot for people - it’s also a brilliant base for exploring with your dog. Whether you’re after a gentle stroll or a longer ramble, there are plenty of walks nearby that both you and your four-legged friend will enjoy. Here are a couple of favourites to get you started.
The Riverside Walk: One of the simplest but loveliest options is to head to the River Great Ouse, which flows right by the town. Start near the station or the town centre and follow the riverside path. It’s flat and easy underfoot, making it great for dogs of all ages (and their humans too).
The views along the water are peaceful, with boats gently bobbing and plenty of birdlife to spot as you go. Depending on how much energy your dog has, you can keep it short and sweet or carry on for a few miles along the bank. Just remember that the river is open and unfenced in places, so it’s worth keeping excitable pups on the lead if they’re prone to jumping in!
Only a short drive or walk from Downham Market, Denver Sluice is another cracking place for dog walking. This historic spot, where several waterways meet, is fascinating in itself, but it also makes a brilliant starting point for a wander.
From the sluice you can pick up paths along the river or cut across the countryside. There are wide open views and plenty of space to stretch your legs. You’ll often see other walkers and their dogs here, so there’s a sociable feel too. Parking is easy, and there’s even a pub nearby if you fancy a post-walk pint or a bite to eat.
Vets: Just in case your dog should feel under the weather whilst visiting Downham, the nearest veterinary clinics are: The Hollies, Paradise Road, 01366 386655 & The Crossings, St. John’s Way, 01366 382219
• Be aware of, and adhere to, restrictions limiting where dogs can go, particularly if it impacts local wildlife or livestock.
• Keep your dog under control at all times.
• Use a lead when needed/requested.
• Always bag and bin your dog’s waste.
• Be sure to have plenty of water with you, especially during the warmer months or if heading out for a long walk.
Professional & Personal
• Purpose-Built Practice with Easy Access & Ample Parking
• Dedicated Sterile Operating Theatre & Dental Suite
• Separate Dog, Cat & Isolation Ward
• Full Digital X-Ray, Endoscopy & Ultrasound Facilities
• State-of-the-art Lab Equipment
• Emergency Care Provided on-site 24hrs, 365 days a year
The Gingerbread Trail offers a fascinating walk through Downham Market’s rich history, uncovering its unique carrstone buildings, coaching inns, legends and landmarks.
1. Priory House: The trail begins at 17th-century Priory House. Despite its name, there’s no evidence of a priory, though the Abbot of Ramsey may have had monks here to manage his lands. One of Downham’s oldest houses, it features crowstepped gables, mullioned windows, an octagonal chimney, and carrstone with galleting. The stepped gables show Dutch influence, brought by engineers who arrived with Sir Cornelius Vermuyden in 1630 to drain the Fens.
2. Union Terrace: A row of carrstone townhouses, built alongside the 1837 Union Workhouse (demolished 1970s, leaving only the porters’ lodges). During WWII, one basement served as a Home Guard post, with snipers on the Old Court House roof opposite. Homeless people reportedly hid money in the walls to avoid paying for overnight stays. The left lodge stored the funeral bier, while the nearby National School (1841) once taught 170 pupils and was used as a military hospital in WWI.
3. Howdale Road: At the corner with Howdale Road, behind the carrstone boundary wall, is the former Red Cross Headquarters and ambulance garage, which for years served the sick and injured of the area. Turn into Howdale Road to see the National School entrance on your right, with Fairfield House and the Catholic Presbytery opposite. The church, set back from the road, was created from the stables of The Towers, struck by lightning in 1965. The Towers, once home to James Scott, who donated the town clock, served as a hospital during WWI. Continue up the road to the distinctive carrstone “beehive” pillars marking the edge of Howdale, made from stone quarried locally.
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4. Breckland House: Beyond the Victorian carrstone houses and retaining wall, you reach Breckland House, originally the 1850s Police Station, now a modern flats complex. The station housed the inspector and family, with cells for men on the ground floor and women above. Its darker local carrstone contrasts with the lighter stone of later extensions.
5. King’s Walk & St. Edmund’s Church: Turn into King’s Walk to the old cemeteries. On the right is the NonConformist cemetery with two carrstone Chapels of Rest and the Sexton’s house; across the left-hand Anglican cemetery lies 13th-century St. Edmund’s Church, likely replacing an earlier Anglo-Saxon building. Built of random carrstone with stone quoins, the church offers rooftop views of the town and the Fens; from the tower, Ely is visible on a clear day. Inside, admire the roof angels, medieval glass, West Gallery marquetry, and the War Memorial painted by local artist George Smith. On descending to Church Road, note the 1960s concrete and flint retaining wall, unusual in a town known for carrstone.
6. The Old Castle Hotel & Paradise Road: On the corner of High Street and Paradise Road, the carrstone Castle Hotel was once an important coaching inn, with nightly coaches to London taking two days. A detour along Paradise Road reveals typical “two up two down” carrstone cottages. Local legend says criminals once walked this route to the gallows, including royalists Stephen Winwood and Richard Knapp, hanged after the 1650 uprisings.
7. Swan Hotel, Sounding Alley & Playhouse Yard: Returning to High Street, many original carrstone buildings were later replaced or faced with brick. The Swan Hotel (a historic coaching inn) hosted King John in 1216 and, in 1646, Charles I in disguise while fleeing Cromwell’s army. Two steep alleyways lead to Church Road: Sounding Alley, once used to test bells from Thomas Osborn’s foundry, and Playhouse Yard, where a theatre once stood before modern cottages replaced it.
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8. Old Market Square & Town Hall: The heart of Downham, this market dates back to Anglo-Saxon times. Markets were once held across the town, including Cannon Square for pigs and a riverside butter market sending goods to London. St. Winnold’s Fair brought Europe’s thirdlargest horse fair to the town. The square features the iconic Town Clock, donated by James Scott in 1878, and the Town Hall, built in 1887 from cream brick and carrstone as a corn exchange, library, and assembly room.
9. Crown Hotel: This ancient coaching inn, with 16th-century alterations, retains features like a mounting block for carriages. It once had stabling for 40 horses, piggeries, cowsheds, and a walled bowling green, and served as a meeting place for magistrates before the Courthouse. In 1816, local agricultural labourers rioted over wages and prison sentences, resulting in arrests, transportations, and hangings. In 1870, Sir Alfred Russel Wallace and flat-earther Samuel Birley Rowbotham stayed here before their famous Bedford Level experiment, which Wallace won, proving the Earth was round.
10a. Bridge Street, Nelson House: Now part of Reeds Homestore, this building was once a school run by Thomas Noakes. Local legend claims a young Horatio Nelson attended, though this is likely a story by George Manby. Original carrstone is visible along the side of the shop.
10b. Bridge Street end: At the end of Bridge Street, the Whalebone and the Lighthouse (formerly the Queen’s Head) were the first inns Fens travellers reached before the mid-Victorian railway brought growth to the area. The Whalebone (of medieval origin) features a whale jawbone from King’s Lynn and historic stonework, likely by local stonemason William Lawrie. Opposite, the Salvation Army occupies the former Quaker meeting house, with fine galleting on Priory Road. Behind it, a hidden Quaker cemetery leads to the Old Fire Station, now home to Discover Downham Heritage Centre.
Stay in a unique, spacious, Georgian, Grade II listed penthouse in the heart of the town centre, sleeping 6 across 3 beautifully styled king-size bedrooms. Set above a charming furniture shop, this luxurious first-floor oasis combines antique character with modern comfort - all just steps from everything you need!
Ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of Downham Market? Discover our curated selection of accommodations, each promising a comfortable and memorable stay. Stay a while... and let the journey unfold!
This luxurious, adult-only cottage offers a stylish and spacious retreat for 2, featuring a kingsize bedroom with freestanding bath, media lounge, sleek kitchen, and private terrace. Set behind electric gates with manicured gardens, it’s the perfect escape with modern comforts, nearby pubs, and countryside charm nearby!
A charming one-bedroom holiday home with a private garden, modern facilities, and a cosy interior full of character. 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed (Can sleep 3 guests in total). Set in the peaceful grounds of an Edwardian Manor near the town centre, it offers free WiFi, parking, and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
An award-winning 18th-century, Grade-II listed guest house with 5 individually-themed en-suite rooms and a beautifully refurbished 19th-century cottage. Ideally located in Denver, on the outskirts of Downham Market, it’s perfect for relaxing breaks, business stays, or exploring the historic towns and coastline of East Anglia!
Located on Bridge Street, the Crown Hotel offers comfortable family rooms with private bathrooms, free WiFi, TV, tea/coffee makers, and toiletries. Enjoy a bar, terrace, outdoor seating, and free private parking. Guests praise the friendly staff and excellent breakfast. Non-smoking · Free parking · Bar · Tea/coffee in all rooms
Sleeps 12 in 6 bedrooms. 7 bathrooms. A stunning barn conversion with the wow factor! High ceilings, exposed timber and a large, open-plan living space, ideal for group getaways. A range of beauty treatments available on-site as well as private hot tub. Dog friendly. Part of a small complex on a former Benedictine Priory site.
• WINDOWS • DOORS • CONSERVATORIES • PORCHES
• CAR PORTS • FASCIA • SOFFIT • GUTTERING
• Conservatory roof leak repair & replacement specialists
• Draughty or leaky windows, doors and conservatories cured
• Misted glass sealed units replaced with full guarantee
• Hinges, handles, and faulty mechanisms replaced
• Mouldy or shrunken rubber gaskets replaced
• Refurbish and upgrade your existing windows
Alive Downham Leisure
Bexwell Road, Downham Market, PE38 9LL alivewestnorfolk.co.uk
Downham Stow Cricket Club
Stow Bardolph, Downham Market, PE34 3HU downhamstow.play-cricket.com
Downham Town FC
Memorial Playing Field, Downham Market, PE38 9QE downhamtownfc.com
Pelicans Hockey Club
Greenpark Av., King’s Lynn, PE30 2NB pelicanshockeyclub.co.uk
Ryston Park Golf Club
Ely Road, Downham Market, PE38 0HH club-noticeboard.co.uk/rystonpark
Ryston Runner Athletics Club
Memorial Playing Field, Downham Market, PE38 9QE rystonrunner.org.uk
Shouldham Bowls Club
Fairstead Drove, Shouldham, PE33 0DL shouldhambowlsandsocialclub.com
West Norfolk Rowing Club
Sluice Road, Denver, PE38 0EG wnrc.westnorfolkrowingclub.co.uk
West Norfolk Rugby Union Football Club
Gate House Lane, King’s Lynn, PE30 3RJ westnorfolkrugby.com
West Norfolk Swimming Club
Blackfriars Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1NN westnorfolksc.co.uk
Wisbech Rugby Club Chapel Road, Wisbech, PE13 1RG pitchero.com/clubs/wisbechrufc
Wisbech Tennis Club
Harecroft Road, Wisbech, PE13 1RL wisbechtennisclub.org.uk
Downham boasts a wide variety of clubs and societies, from sports, drama and music to gardening, volunteering and community groups. Whatever your age or interests, there’s something here to enjoy, meet new people, and get involved in local life!
1st Downham Market Scouts
110 Howdale Road, PE38 9AH scouts.org.uk
Army Cadets (Downham Market) Cadet Centre, Bexwell Road, PE38 9LJ armycadets.com/county/norfolk-acf Cats Protection cats.org.uk/downhammarket enquiries@downham.cats.org.uk
Discover Downham
The Old Fire Station, Priory Rd, PE38 9JS info@discoverdownham.org.uk discoverdownham.org.uk
Downham Dementia admin@downhamdementia.org downhamdementia.org
Downham Market & District U3A downham-market.u3asite.uk
Downham Market Amateur Dramatic Society dadsdramauk@gmail.com dadstheatre.co.uk
Downham Market Girlguiding downhamgirlguiding@gmail.com girlguiding.org.uk
Downham Market Rotary Club downhammarketrotary@hotmail.co.uk therotaryclubofdownhammarket.co.uk
Downham Market Twinning Club downhammarkettwinningclub.com
Downham Market WI Methodist Church Paradise Road, PE38 9JE norfolk.thewi.org.uk/find-wi/ downham-market
Fenland & West Norfolk Friends of the Earth fenlandwestnorfolkfoe@gmail.com groups.friendsoftheearth.uk
FenSong Performing Arts Group fensongtheatre@gmail.com
Horticultural Society dmanddhs@gmail.com downhammarkethortisoc.weebly.com
Legacy Dance ld.legacydance@gmail.com
Men’s Shed Sovereign Way, PE38 9SW dmms637@gmail.com facebook.com/groups/dmmensshed
Parkrun
Downham Market Academy, Bexwell Road, PE38 9LL parkrun.org.uk/ downhammarketacademy
Royal Air Force Air Cadets (Downham Market) Cadet Centre, Bexwell Road, PE38 9LJ raf.mod.uk/aircadets
Singers Inspired singersinspired.choir@gmail.com singersinspired.co.uk
Swan Youth Project anna@swanyouthproject.org swanyouthproject.org
West Norfolk Community Transport info@westnorfolkct.co.uk westnorfolkct.co.uk
Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk 01553 616200 west-norfolk.gov.uk
Bridge Street Surgery 01366 388888 nwicb.admin.bridgestreet@nhs.net bridgestreetsurgery.co.uk
Clackclose Pre-School 01366 385067 clackclosepreschool.co.uk
Discover Downham 01366 384428 info@discoverdowham.org.uk discoverdownham.org.uk
Downham Market Academy 01366 389100 hello@dma.tela.org.uk dma.tela.org.uk
Downham Market Foodbank 01366 384474 info@downhammarket.foodbank.org.uk downhammarketdistrict.foodbank.org.uk
Downham Market Library 01366 383073 downham.market.lib@norfolk.gov.uk
Downham Market Post Office 01366 388494
Downham Market Town Council 01366 387770 info@downhammarkettc.co.uk downhammarkettowncouncil.org.uk
Downham Nursery School 01366 388755 downhamnursery@downhamprep.co.uk downhamnursery.co.uk
Hillcrest Primary School 01366 388191 office@hillcrest.norfolk.sch.uk hillcrest.norfolk.sch.uk
MP for South West Norfolk (Terry Jermy) 020 7219 3000 terry.jermy.mp@parliament.uk terryjermy.com
Nelson Academy 01366 383824 office@nla.eastern-mat.co.uk nelsonacademy.co.uk
The Hollies Surgery 01366 310301 holliessurgery.co.uk
Willows Pharmacy 01366 386500 pharmacy.fxx52@nhs.net