Discover Downham – Downham Market Heritage Society

Discover Downham – Downham Market Heritage Society
DISCOVER
DOWNHAM
LATEST EVENTS
CONTACT US
We’re Growing! Fundraising Campaign
Explore Downham Market’s Past
Preserved, Presented, and Proudly Shared.
From artefacts and archives to community talks, school visits and research support, Discover Downham brings local history to life for all ages.
Whether you’re a curious visitor, a local resident, or part of a school group, our volunteer-run heritage centre offers a unique insight into the people, places, and events that shaped Downham Market and the 34 surrounding villages of the Clackclose Hundred.
Making the Forgotten Fabulous – Creativity Comes to Life at the Heritage Centre
Something quietly remarkable is taking shape at the Heritage Centre, where creativity, imagination and community spirit are coming together in a way that truly brings the space to life.
At the centre of this is Maisie, the young talent behind
Maisie Makes Treasure
. With a natural eye for beauty and a love of discovery, she is transforming items that many would overlook – particularly old and discarded cutlery – into striking, wearable pieces of jewellery. Rings, pendants, bracelets and earrings emerge from what was once forgotten, each piece completely unique.
Maisie describes her inspiration simply: finding beauty in “things that have been lost or discarded” and turning them into something special. It is a wonderful idea, but more than that, it is being put into practice with real skill and enthusiasm. Her work captures that sense of adventure she speaks about – the excitement of seeing potential where others might not.
But Maisie’s work is just one part of a wider and growing offer within the Heritage Centre. Alongside her creations, visitors will find a carefully curated selection of locally made goods: handcrafted wooden items, homemade jams and pickles, locally written guides and booklets, stationery, and a fascinating range of old books and historical documents. Together, they create a space that celebrates both heritage and present-day creativity.
This venture does something important. It supports local people – giving them a platform to share their skills and passions – while also helping to sustain the work of the Heritage Centre itself. Every purchase contributes directly to the community and helps ensure the centre continues to thrive.
There is also something more intangible at work. The presence of makers like Maisie brings energy and warmth, turning a visit into something more than just a look at the past. It becomes an experience of discovery – not just of history, but of creativity in action.
Examples of these wonderful creations can be seen on our website shop, but to truly appreciate them, a visit in person is well worthwhile. You may just find that perfect, unusual piece – and in doing so, support a young maker who is proving that even the most ordinary objects can be made fabulous.
What’s On
See All Events & More Info.
24
Apr
Coffee Morning in Aid of Discover Downham
24
Apr
Downham Songwriters & Poets
30
Apr
Sit Fit – fitness session
30
Apr
Downham Art circle
3
May
Weaving Words: Creative Writing Shop
6
May
Quiz night!
7
May
Sit Fit – fitness session
7
May
Downham Art circle
8
May
Women’s Institute Coffee Morning
8
May
Soft Pastel Workshop
Discover Downham Heritage Centre
C.I.O. Reg. Charity No 1154267
Discover Downham Heritage Centre features artefacts a
nd events relating to Downham and the local area.
Contact us:
info@discoverdownham.org.uk
Normal Opening Hours
Thursdays and Fridays 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Free Entry
Saturdays 10am – 1:00 pm.
Free Entry
Free Wi-Fi and laptops provided for research purposes (limited availability).
Enlightening interactive displays explore the work, play, war, and struggles throughout Downham Market’s history.
Refreshments available – enjoy a break while you explore (opening hours may vary)
Explore Downham Market’s history through family and property records, photographs, and documents spanning centuries, using our library and research facilities.
We offer a spacious, welcoming room with kitchen facilities, nestled among our exhibitions – perfect for meetings or functions.
Accessibility at Discover Downham Heritage Centre
• Accessible Parking – On-site parking with designated disabled spaces is available right next to the centre.
• Wheelchair Access – The building has wheelchair access.
• Accessible Toilets & Baby Changing Facilities – The centre offers both disabled-access toilets and baby changing facilities.
About Us
Discover our story and the history of the society.
Learn More
What’s On
Discover our upcoming events at Discover Downham.
Learn More
Membership
Want to get involved? Find out about our volunteering opportunities or become a member.
Learn More
Come Visit Us:
Discover Downham,
28-30 Priory Road,
Downham Market,
PE38 9JS
Email: info@discoverdownham.org.uk
Phone: 01366 384428
81335
Visitors
137223
Page-views