After four long years of war, the Armistice of November 1918 offered a new beginning.
They were told a dream awaited them… a “land fit for heroes.” But when the soldiers came home, reality had sold them short.
For many so-called heroes, the battle was far from over. Unemployment. Hunger. Families faced new, daily battles. None felt it more than those in Town Street, where discontent simmered like a kettle left on the stove.
Many had fought for King and Country. Lives had been lost. Limbs shattered. Minds scarred beyond repair. Yet for others, who stayed at home, it seemed their lives had rolled on untouched. Some, even appeared to prosper.
The divide was clear. The injustice felt unbearable.
And in a town thick with tension … it would only take a spark.
That spark came on 15th May, 1919. Without warning it led to threats. Violence.
Join Darren Norton, as he leads you through the very locations where anger turned a quiet town into chaos. This is the story of the 1919 Brandon Riot.
Thursday 17th September and Sunday 20th September
Time: 10-11.30am
Meeting Point: In the Market Square, Brandon IP27 0AA
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Distance: 1.1 miles/1.8km
Suitable for: Most ages, the narrative will be tailored to suit the age/interest of the group on the day.
Book Now: The Night Brandon Roared!
Accessibility: This walk takes place on pavements and firm paths, but does pass through one barrier which may be tricky for wheelchairs, mobility scooters or pushchairs. If this would prevent you from attending or, if you have any other accessibility questions, please contact us at brecks@suffolk.gov.uk or on 01473 265600.
Facilities: The start and end point of this walk is in the town centre, near various cafés and shops. There are also toilets in the Brandon Centre, 1 minute away.
Parking: Free parking is available at 32 George Street IP27 0BX (2 minutes’ walk) and at the Brandon Centre on Bury Road IP27 0BU (1 minutes’ walk) but please note there is a 3 hour time limit at the Brandon Centre car park.
Public Transport:
The closest bus stops are George Street and near The Lode (both 2 minutes’ walk). For information on bus times, visit bustimes.org
Brandon train station is located 15 minutes’ walk away with trains from Thetford, Norwich and Cambridge.
Dogs: This walk is not dog friendly.