Nostalgic East: Winding back the clock on another north Norfolk town

As part of a Nostalgic East series running in the Eastern Daily Press, REBECCA MACNAUGHTON looks back at days gone by in the north Norfolk town of Aylsham.

Just under 10 miles North of Norwich lies Aylsham, a quaint little town, perfect for escaping the noise and bustle of the city. Developing a growing reputation for commuter living, Aylsham blends the best of small village England with a perfect location for surrounding area travel.

Aylsham has seen a wide variety of produce and materials manufactured in the area throughout history.

In medieval times it was famed for cloth production, before shifting to linen in the 15th century. Aylsham's linen became a nationally known and beloved product.

But linen manufacturing declined in the 16th century, and so production in Aylsham shifted again – this time to wool. The Industrial Revolution brought great change to the whole country and Aylsham was no different. In the 19th century, the principal trade of the town became grain and timber.

Various scenes here show what life was like in Aylsham. Its water mill was of vital importance to production in the area.

As for the Aylsham market, it's been a staple of the town since at least the 13th century and continues to this day. Interestingly, the rights of stallholders in the market place today date back to rights that were established in medieval times.

Did you know?

Aylsham has a history of being green, including becoming Norfolk's first plastic-bag-free town in 2008.

Following this, a new Tesco's store that claimed to be the 'greenest in the world' opened in the town in the same year.

MORE: Through the years: Some nostalgic pics of a charming north Norfolk town.