Diss

Surrounded by the beautiful countryside of the Waveney Valley, Diss in South Norfolk is a real little gem. Famous for its mere and with lush green parkland, ideal for relaxing with a picnic or for a game of Frisbee, Diss is a haven away from the fast pace of everyday life and is part of the Cittaslow or ‘slow city' project.

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(c) Bressingham Steam Experience and Gardens

Things to Do in and around Diss

This historic market town of Diss is certainly pleasing to the eye. The heart of the town, the Market Place, is overlooked by the stunning Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin. Sitting slightly above the town, the Church can be seen for miles around and has stood on its current site since 1290. While going through numerous structural changes throughout the years, visitors can still see fine examples of gothic architecture and if visiting in the summer months you may be lucky enough to catch one of the lunchtime music concerts. For an insightful view into the town's history, visit Diss Museum, packed with local photographs and artefacts that tell the stories of year's gone by and the lives of local people.

For time to simply relax and enjoy the pace of life, take a leisurely walk around the gorgeous parkland and enjoy views of the mere, once believed to have been formed from the crater of an extinct volcano! A lovely gentle walk can be enjoyed around Diss Park taking in views of the 6 acre mere or quietly stroll around Frenze Beck Nature Reserve, a wetland paradise for many species of bird and other wildlife. For those who really want to stretch their legs, Boudica's Way runs for 40 miles from Diss to the medieval city of Norwich, the capital of Norfolk. There are also two bike routes to be explored starting from the town and taking in the countryside and quaint villages and towns.

Nearby to Diss, there are plenty of attractions for everyone to enjoy. Banham Zoo is a great day out for all the family, or try a day out with a difference at Bressingham Steam Experience and Gardens - enjoy narrow-gauge steam rides through beautiful woodland and gardens, ride the Victorian 'Gallopers' or explore the official "Dad's Army" exhibition. For the history buffs amongst you, visit the 100th Bomb Group Memorial Museum, which honours the USAAF's famous 'Bloody Hundredth' Bomb Group of WWII. If you want to stay active, take a dip at Diss Swim and Fitness Centre or enjoy a round of golf in glorious countryside at Diss Golf Club, whilst children will love to play at Monsters, an indoor play and party centre.

Find more places to visit in and around Diss

Shopping in Diss

The layout of the shops in Diss is as interesting as the shops themselves. Arranged around four courtyards - Cobbs, Norfolk House, Hales and Wills - a wonderful array of shops are waiting to be browsed and food lovers will enjoy perusing the specialist food shops and a very tempting sweetie shop. Hales Courtyard is a lovely place to relax with a coffee, while Will's Courtyard has a superb shop for fishing enthusiasts. One of the town's main shopping highlights has to be Diss weekly market, held every Friday. A lively and social event, the market is a great place to bag a bargain and sample some of the most delicious fish and chips in the county. Running alongside the market in Gazes Salesrooms is a buzzing auction where you can bid for antiques and collectables. Saturdays is another hectic day in the town with every second Saturday seeing the local farmers market in action, often accompanied by live music. The first and third Saturdays are for the flea market where stalls are piled high with hidden treasures.

Take a break from your shopping in one of Diss' coffee shops

Where to eat in Diss

During your day in Diss, you are sure to be in need of some delicious Norfolk fayre. Whether it is for coffee and a cake, a wonderful array of organic food or a restaurant purely for vegetarians, Diss has it all.

Where to Stay in and around Diss

Diss is an ideal destination for a short break or longer family holiday, with plenty to see and do in the area. Whether you stay at a luxury B&B in Diss, or charming holiday cottage in Diss or the surrounding countryside, you'll be sure to enjoy your stay in this charming market town.