A superb place, close to coast and country
23 mins to Dereham
40 mins to King's Lynn
Coast or country? If your heart is set on the gentle bustle of a market town, but within easy reach of the sea, Fakenham is top of the list. While sandy beaches are just ten miles away, the market town is perfectly positioned halfway between King’s Lynn and Norwich with easy reach to Holt and Swaffham, making for an easy commute.
Fakenham
Out of working hours, there’s plenty to keep you entertained including the thriving independent Central Cinema, a perennial favourite with locals. Enjoy a fun glass-blowing session with the kids at Langham Glass, reconnect with nature at Pensthorpe or blow the cobwebs with a walk at nearby Sculthorpe Moor.
For something fancier, dress up to the nines and enjoy a day out and a flutter at Fakenham Racecourse, or team up with your playing pals for a round at Fakenham Golf Club, set in and around the racecourse. And Thursford is just four miles away with its magnificent collection of steam engines and organs – a visit to its Christmas spectacular gives a West End theatre excursion a run for its money!
Make time to explore the Fakenham Lancaster Heritage Trail, a series of 32 plaques which bring the town’s industrial past to life. Originally a vibrant agricultural centre, during the 19th century Fakenham rose to prominence as a major centre for printing – spot the printing blocks which have been set in the surface of the market place and date back to 1250. The stallholders still set out their wares every Thursday with a farmers’ market on the last Saturday of the month.
From grand homes and character cottages to quality new-build houses, Fakenham has an excellent choice of property for all budgets, and on the outskirts of town there are plenty of period properties set on large plots for those looking for a little more space.
Foodies are spoilt for choice with locally farmed meat, produce and award winning Mrs Temple’s cheese available to fill your pantry at nearby Walsingham Farm Shops. Save the washing up and dine out at The Ostrich Inn, which has been serving locals since 1841, or indulge at Sculthorpe Mill, which was awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2022, on the edge of town.
A brilliant location, exquisite properties waiting to be rediscovered and a growing band of entrepreneurial businesses, Fakenham is enjoying a renaissance and offers a superb place to call home.
