Diss Is The Traditional Market Town

A peaceful and quiet haven away from a more hectic pace of life, Diss in Norfolk is surrounded by green, unspoilt countryside and still retains the charm of a traditional market town with plenty to offer. There is a lot to enjoy in and around Diss whether it's a relaxing stroll through parkland or an interesting browse around the unique shops and markets. Diss is situated in South Norfolk surrounded by the stunning scenic landscape of the Waveney Valley. The historic town is close to the border of Norfolk and the neighbouring county of Suffolk is within easy reach. The town is famous for its mere or lake, with its green parkland it is one of the deepest natural inland lakes in the country. Legend suggests that the lake is thought to have formed from a crater of a volcano. The mere and nature reserve attracts lots of wildlife and is well known for its different breeds of ducks, geese and wildfowl. The town's origins date back to the lake with the name Diss meaning lake in Saxon terms as well as being a Viking word for village of the dancing horse. Diss was officially included in the county of Suffolk in the time of Edward the Confessor and recorded in the Domesday Book. At that time the town consisted of a church and a glebe of 24 acres worth £15 per annum. During William the Conqueror's time it had doubled to an estimated £30 and grew shortly after through acquiring the neighbouring area of Watlingsete Manor, a place as large as Diss. Many famous people have originated from Diss including John Skelton, a former poet and Thomas Lord, founder of Lord's Cricket Ground. The historic market place within the town is overlooked by the lovely church of St Mary the Virgin; sitting above the town since 1290 it has stunning examples of gothic architecture. The traditional charm can be seen across the town with lovely half-timbered buildings still standing with beautiful upper storeys. The architecture stems from the Georgian to the mid Victorian periods. In March 2006, Diss became the third town in the UK to become part of Cittaslow, an international scheme to promote slow towns. Shopping in Diss takes in the many speciality and unique shops around four courtyards including a lovely old fashioned sweet shop as well as the famous weekly market, the twice monthly flea market, monthly farmers market and bustling auction salesroom selling antiques and hidden treasures. The weekly market was first granted charter by Richard the Lionheart. It continues to be a lively event and a great place to buy fresh food and bargains. The farmers market is another lively event often with live music. There are plenty of attractions and things to do in and around Diss for the active and outdoors, with bike routes and trails, walks, golf and fitness clubs. There is culture with the local museum telling stories of days gone by and adventure with a nearby zoo, the "steam experience" and gardens or soft play for the younger ones.

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