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Downham Market Clock
The ancient saxon town of Downham Market is a delightful place to visit and is one of Norfolk’s oldest market towns. Considered by many to be the gateway to the Fens, and with a network of waterways close by plus lots to see and do in the town and surrounding area, Downham Market is a great place for a weekend break in Norfolk.
Fresh ProduceRiver OuseDenver Windmill
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Places to Visit (Downham Market)
Downham Market has a wealth of interesting historic buildings. In the main square see the town’s unique black and white clock tower. Gothic in design and made from wrought iron, it is proudly considered one of Downham Market’s most distinctive features. The Town Hall is another beautiful building, which was built to celebrate Queen Victoria’s jubilee in 1887 and remember to look out for the St Edmunds Parish Church – the town’s oldest building. The town also holds a number of events throughout the year including its annual festival and carnival, St Winnold's Fayre, a music festival and even a water festival with Dragon Boat Racing, sailing displays, free arts events on the town square and plenty to entertain children.
Shopping in Downham Market
Downham Market certainly lives up to its name having two outdoor markets a week, on Fridays and Saturdays. Very popular with locals and visitors, the market is packed with stalls selling local produce including jams, juices, cheese and breads along with much more. A recent addition to the Saturday market includes a Crafts and Collectables Market, every fortnight in the town square. Around the town you will also find plenty of shops to browse, including some delightful independent stores and boutiques.
Places to eat in and around Downham Market
There are plenty of places to satisfy every taste in Downham Market. From cream teas to hearty pub meals, there is a great range of places to eat. A local favourite is the Crown Hotel with its traditional feel; the Downham Tandoori and Balti House satisfies those with spicy appetites, while the Hare Arms Inn & Restaurant about two miles from the town centre offers a delicious menu if you’re looking for somewhere special.
Explore
For those who like to keep active there is plenty to do around the town. With the River Ouse running alongside there are a number of lovely riverside walks to be enjoyed and routes are easy to follow as you explore the Fen Rivers Way. Take a gentle stroll to Stowbridge and see St Peter – a church with a fairytale chimney and castle tower – not to be missed! If you’d prefer to join a guided walk the town provides ‘Twalks’ every Wednesday and Friday morning, a walk with a talk. Sailing or boating enthusiasts will certainly feel at home here with plenty of waterways to navigate. Cruise along the river to Denver and see the magnificent working windmill. And if you like fishing we can accommodate you too with angling being a popular pastime in this area.
Places to visit near to Downham Market
  • Church Farm – rare breeds farm, nature walks, tractor rides and playground

  • Collectors World – great collections of cars, computers, toys and many more!

  • Denver Windmill – working windmill with café and bakery

  • Welney Wetland Centre – bird/nature reserve, excellent for keen birdwatchers

  • More Information
    Use the links below to help you navigate around our dedicated Market Towns section.

    Introduction

    Aylsham

    Diss

    Fakenham

    Holt

    King's Lynn

    North Walsham

    Swaffham

    Wymondham
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