Norwich Printing Museum Seeks New Permanent Location Amidst October Deadline

The Norwich Printing Museum is actively seeking a new permanent site, facing an October deadline as its temporary lease at Blickling Estate in Aylsham, Norfolk, is scheduled to conclude. Previously known as the John Jarrold Printing Museum, the institution houses one of the nation’s most extensive collections of printing presses. Its team initiated the search for a new location in 2019, anticipating that the recruitment of additional trustees would support these efforts. Paul Nash, chair of the Norwich Printing Museum Trust, described the process of locating a usable building as “really quite difficult.” He specified that a new facility must include a loading bay capable of accommodating large items and flooring strong enough to support heavy machinery. Mr. Nash commented, “Suitable buildings are not as common as you might think.” The current temporary exhibition at the Blickling Estate accommodates 15% of the museum’s collection, while the remaining items are held in storage. A team of six trustees currently operates the museum. They have expressed intentions to double their team size in the New Year to assist in the search for a new site. Mr. Nash stated that they are seeking individuals enthusiastic about the museum’s future or possessing knowledge of the printing press’s history. He added, “We are looking for people with a passion for the museum in and around Norwich. However, if you can bring knowledge or skills from further afield, we’ll welcome that.”