Diss

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Built around the stunning mere, the picturesque market town of Diss manages to maintain its bustling heart, while still remaining uncongested and unflustered by the world, in the midst of unspoilt countryside. The Poet Laureate, John Betjeman, was particularly fond of Diss, having first visited the town to film a series about English market towns for the BBC; in A Mind's Journey to Diss he wrote to his friend and fellow-poet, Mary Wilson, 'Yes, it will be bliss, to go with you by train to Diss'. An earlier Poet Laureate, John Skelton, was also Rector of the town.

Diss lies on the Great Eastern main line route from London to Norwich, with excellent connections to the Norfolk-Suffolk coast. The historic market town was once well-known for its association with the linen and woollen industries, and although the weaving trade is now just a distant memory, Diss is still the site of a lively weekly market and auction sale each Friday, and a popular farmer's market on the second Saturday of each month.

The mere occupies over six acres, and is one of the deepest natural lakes in England. Together with the Frenze Beck Nature Reserve, it offers many opportunities for nature-lovers. The nearby Boudica's Way is a popular long-distance footpath which stretches the 40 miles to Norwich.

Diss also has one of the best displays of historic buildings in the county, with its early 14^th century parish church, and a generous selection of half-timbered buildings. Within the town, Diss Museum contains a fascinating collection of local photographs and artefacts, whilst the Steam Museum and Gardens at Bressingham, just a couple of miles outside the town, offers a fine day out for all the family.