Holt

A great place for a weekend break in Norfolk has to be Holt. This pretty Georgian market town, nestled in the North Norfolk countryside, is brimming over with many interesting antique, arts and crafts and gift shops. There are also plenty of lovely places to eat and with the North Norfolk coast within easy reach you can walk off some of those extra calories while breathing the refreshing sea air.

Jump to Things to Do // Where to Stay // Eating Out // Shopping // What's On

North Norfolk Railway (The Poppy Line), Holt to Sheringham (c) Gerry Balding - http://www.flickr.com/photos/8929612@N04/

Things to Do in and around Holt

Stroll around the town of Holt and you will soon feel all your worries slip away. Rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1708, the town has a wonderful character with colourful Georgian buildings and a modest parish church that is open to visitors. A must during your visit to Holt has to be a journey on the North Norfolk Railway. Also known as the Poppy Line, a steam train takes its passengers from Holt station through some of North Norfolk's most stunning countryside, designated an area of outstanding natural beauty, to the Victorian seaside town of Sheringham. Look out for the seas of red poppies and then you'll know where the Railway gets its name! Another of Norfolk's top attractions can be found just a short distance from Holt - Letheringsett Mill - Norfolk's only flour producing watermill. Built in 1802, visitors can see working demonstrations of this incredible machine, enjoy guided tours and browse the Mill Shop.

Visit the extensive military collection at the Muckleburgh Collection (c) Muckleburgh Collection

For those wanting a bit of heritage, visit the Muckleburgh Collection - an extensive military museum plus restaurant and shop. Or get in touch with nature at Holt Country Park. The beautiful landscape of woodland, meadows, flora and fauna is a haven for wildlife of all sizes and is great place for the whole family to visit. Children will love the play area, while there is a nature trail, observation tower, pond and picnic areas. A number of special events are organised throughout the year including Nightjar Walks, mini beast safaris and treasure hunts. A little farther afield, why not visit Felbrigg Hall, Garden & Park - a wonderful National Trust property with woodland and lakeside walks, or Sheringham Park, a beautiful countryside park on North Norfolk coast.

If you're looking for adventure days for all, try Hilltop Outdoor Centre, Sheringham, - packed full of assault courses, low and high rope courses plus archery, climbing and mountain biking.

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Holt is perfect for a spot of retail therapy (c) Norfolk Tourism

Shopping in Holt

For shopping with a difference then Holt certainly has it all. While away the hours going from shop to shop, browsing the collections of antiques, books, unique crafts and gifts for loved ones (or a maybe a treat for you!). There are galleries a plenty too, such as Bircham Gallery selling paintings, sculpture, ceramics and jewellery and the light and airy Appleyard Gallery. Visit the Pied Piper Shop for inspirational children's gifts and toys, browse for interesting kitchen items at Butler's Pantry or stock up on patterns, wools and cottons at the tiny sewing shop, Something Special. A place not to be missed has to be Bakers and Larners of Holt. Described as ‘East Anglia's answer to Fortnum & Mason' the store sells everything from fine food to garden tools, books to clothes.

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Treat yourself to a tasty lunch at Byford's, Holt (c) Norfolk Tourism

Where to eat in Holt

Holt definitely has some wonderful places to eat, where you can relax and take your time. Byford's offers a treat for the taste buds whether stopping off for elevenses, lunch or an evening meal. Byford's moto is ‘keeping Norfolk curvy' so be sure to try their delicious cakes! There is also a deli should you like to take a little something home with you. Sample the delectable foods at Butler's of Holt where dishes are prepared with in season, locally sourced produce or pop into the King's Head pub, in the centre of Holt, where you can enjoy great pub food accompanied by fine wines or ales.

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Bircham Gallery in Holt (c) Bircham Gallery

What's on in Holt

With galleries galore (such as Bircham Gallery) in Holt showcasing the latest national and local artwork and exhibitions, plus nature and family events at Holt Country Park, there's plenty happening in and around this charming market town. Plus don't forget the Holt Summer Festival in July/August each year!

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Where to Stay in Holt

Holt is an ideal destination for a short break or longer family holiday, with plenty to see and do in the area. Whether you stay at a posh Holt B&B or charming holiday cottage in Holt or the surrounding countryside, you'll be sure to enjoy your stay in this picture perfect North Norfolk town.