Industrious City at the Museum of Norwich

Made in Norwich

A gallery packed full of artefacts proudly demonstrating Norwich's industrious heritage. Highlights include a desk from the now demolished Corn Hall, a model of a FE2B plane made by Boulton and Paul and an iconic ironwork sunflower, designed by Thomas Jeckyll for Barnard, Bishop and Barnards.

Norwich has a rich industrial heritage. Find out more about some of the main industries of the city including heavy engineering, manufacturing aircraft, making mustard, chocolate and crackers and of course, the textile industry. 

Highlights include the world's first ever wire netting machine, a chocolate enrobing machine and the restored Jacquard loom.

Shoemakers

Norwich has been home to some of the UK's largest shoe manufacturers including Start-rite, Ballys, Edwards & Holmes, Florida Group, and Bowhill & Elliott.  The museum's vast collection of shoes and boots is creatively displayed relating the city's history of manufacturing shoes and mapping the changes in footwear fashion.

Collection highlights include machinery from local factories, a beautiful willow pattern exhibition shoe and an incredible snake proof boot made for nurses in Burma during WW2.

Listen to local shoe workers' memories and watch shoes being made.

Children can try on some of our more funky shoes.