11. CROMWELL COTTAGEThis is said to be the oldest surviving building in Fakenham. Its name derives from the belief that Cromwell's troops were housed here during the English Civil War. Adjoining it in Swan Street, The Old House is also ancient and has witches’ marks on two of its beams.
The south end of Tunn Street, formerly Stone Street, the original southern entrance to Fakenham. Although the cottage in foreground no longer exists, remnants of its street-facing wall are evident today servng as a garden wall to its neighbouring property. The far cottage is said to have housed some of Cromwell's troops during the Civil War. Click on image to enlarge.
On the other side of the road is Grove House. It is a late 16th century Manor that was used as an 18 bed hospital in the First World War. At that time, it was called Goggs’ Hall and the staff was supervised by Dr Palin grandfather of Michael Palin. Later Grove House was lived in by three doctors in succession – Drs Norman, Arthur and Preece.
World War 1 news clipping article describing the change of use of Gogg's Hall to receive War wounded. Click on image to enlarge.
Grove House. Used as a hospital in the First World War.
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Cromwell Cottage - front view.
Cromwell Cottage - rear view.
You should now walk south along Mill Lane which was called Stone Lane before the Mill was built. In early Medieval times this was the main southern entrance to the town. |
