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The biggest town in north Norfolk, Fakenham is around ten miles from the coast but bordered by luscious countryside. It also has both the National Cycle Network and the River Wensum running through it. This is the ideal base for exploring the upper part of Norfolk by bike or by car.

The weekly market has brought the streets of Fakenham to life since 1250 and today offers local delicacies for visitor’s delectations by way of a monthly farmers’ market too. As well as its history as a market town, Fakenham has a fruitful printing heritage and the market place now features printing blocks set in stone to commemorate its past. The town’s industrial legacy also paved the way for Fakenham Museum of Gas and Local History which, with its fascinating artefacts used for the manufacture of gas and status as the only surviving town gasworks in England and Wales, is well worth a snoop.

Just outside of town, there’s a variety of year-round activities and attractions to please the entire family. Your first stop should be Pensthorpe – a stunning natural park, woodland and wetlands that’s a mecca for birders and wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. The BBC chose it as the home of Springwatch for three years and whether you’re into botany (the woodlands are awash with bluebells in spring while the wetlands come alive with wild orchids in the summer), conservation (Pensthorpe is helping with the reintroduction of species such as red squirrels and Eurasian cranes) or just like a good cuppa and slice of cake in beautiful surroundings, Pensthorpe is for you. Sculthorpe Moor Nature Reserve and the Hawk and Owl Trust are also nearby.

Fancy a day at the gee-gees? Fakenham Racecourse is where the West Norfolk Hunt’s Point to Point takes place and has events running throughout the year from the Easter Monday race to the Snellings Norfolk National in May to Jarrold Ladies Day in the summer and a festive meet in December.

Talking of getting festive in Fakenham, Thursfords’ Christmas Spectacular is not to be missed. As well as this vivacious variety show, Thursford offers Santa’s Magical Journey that takes little ones to a world of penguins, polar bears and giant teddy bears where the jolly man himself awaits. While from April Thursford’s Steam Engine Collection, including everything from traditional organs to favourite fairground rides, is a hit with all.  

Simply choose the time of year you’d like to visit and we’ll help you find the finest Fakenham cottage for your holiday.