24th September 2026
Brushes, Bobbins & Banter Celebrates Diss’s Working Heritage
On 12 and 13 September, Diss Museum hosted Brushes, Bobbins & Banter as part of the Heritage Open Days Festival, celebrating the everyday working lives of people from Diss and District.
Over two days, more than 185 visitors enjoyed exhibits, displays, audio histories, demonstrations and talks exploring Diss’s industrial heritage, with a particular focus on the Aldrich Brush Factory and Diss Lace Association.
Highlights included Norfolk lacemaker’s demonstrations, Ken Doughty’s fascinating talk on brush making, previously unseen Diss Lace artefacts and our popular pop-up café.
Visitors, including many making their first visit to the museum, were enthusiastic about the displays and all that our “little museum” has to offer.
The event also received excellent publicity with a full-page feature in the Diss Express on 17 September.
24th September 2026
What’s New on Our Website? 🎧 Explore Our New Audio Histories
Although the 2026 Heritage Open Days Festival has now come to an end, Diss Museum is continuing to celebrate the working lives of people from Diss and District through our Audio Histories.
These personal memories and recollections offer a fascinating insight into the people, occupations and experiences that have shaped our local community. From stories of working at the Aldrich Brush Factory to memories of everyday life, they provide a unique and personal connection to Diss’s past.
Listen to the stories and discover the voices of Diss.
🎧 Listen to the Audio Histories