Area guides

Watton

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Room to grow in this strong rural community

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Watton
23 mins to Dereham
23 mins to Thetford
47 mins to Norwich
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Providing plenty of country homes with room to grow, plus an ample share of equestrian properties, the popular market town of Watton has a strong rural community, which comes together each year for the annual Wayland Show, one of England’s oldest agricultural shows.

Watton

Located in the heart of Breckland, the town is well-served by primary, junior and secondary schools, a GP clinic, dental surgery and chemist, along with a supermarket, Post Office and sports centre.

Just outside the town, Loch Neaton is believed to be England’s only loch. In 1875, Scottish railway workers excavated land to establish a new railway from Thetford to Watton and the site filled with water from the River Wissey, forming a lake. A group of Victorian entrepreneurs saw the potential to develop this picturesque spot into a pleasure garden with woodland trails, boats, a bandstand and even winter ice skating. Although the attractions are long gone, the loch is still a stunning location to enjoy a relaxing walk or a day spent fishing the waters.

Local legend has it that nearby Wayland Wood is the site of the children’s tale, Babes in the Wood, and the beauty of the area makes it an unmissable place to explore. Enjoy the cycle trails at nearby Thetford Forest or book a game at Richmond Park Golf Course, an 18-hole course with driving range set in 100 acres of parkland.

Well-exercised, there are several good pubs serving real ales and good grub to recharge your energy – try The Willow House, The Waggon and Horses in nearby Griston or The Old Bell at Saham Toney, north of Watton.

With its many historic and stunning natural landmarks, plus a superb range of properties to discover, Watton is a jewel in Norfolk’s rural crown.

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