Why the Fakenham area is the perfect staycation destination

While Norfolk's seaside towns such as Cromer and Hunstanton are very popular holiday destinations, there are just as many things to see and do inland.

Here are five reasons why Fakenham and its surrounding villages are ideal for a getaway. 

Sculthorpe Mill is located on the outskirts of Fakenham Picture: AWPR (Image: Andrew Waddison / AW PR)

1. Food and drink 

In recent years, the food and drink offering in this often overlooked area of Norfolk has been booming.

This includes the refurbished Sculthorpe Mill, which has won numerous awards and features in The Michelin Guide, and Fat Cow, serving burgers and ice cream from a trailer in a wildflower meadow on the outskirts of Fakenham. 

The nearby Barsham Brewery is behind some of the best beers in Norfolk and it also hosts street food nights over the spring and summer months.

READ MORE: Pumpkin House with free entry returning to Norfolk with new pizza weekends

Sean Scully at Houghton Hall runs until October 29 2023 Picture: Peter Huggins (Image: Peter Huggins)

2. Culture and events 

This area is a real cultural hub and Fakenham is just a stone's throw away from the Thursford Collection, which produces the famous Christmas Spectacular. 

See sculptures from world-renowned artists in the gardens at Houghton Hall, also the location for the annual Houghton music festival, and learn about wildlife at Pensthorpe. 

READ MORE: New host announced for Thursford Christmas Spectacular 2023

The Olive stargazer bell tent at Godwick Hall, near Fakenham Picture: James Randle jmrstudio.co.uk (Image: James Randle shotbyjames.co.uk)

3. Unique places to stay 

There are lots of lovely places to stay in and around Fakenham, but if you are looking for something more off-grid then there are stargazing bell tents at Godwick Hall and yurts in a wild meadow at the Raynham Estate. 

The Crown in the centre of Fakenham also boasts 12 cosy bedrooms and there are seven rooms at Sculthorpe Mill with riverside views. 

READ MORE: 5 of the best off-grid holidays you can book in Norfolk

Langham Glass, based in Fakenham, is a fascinating place to visit Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Copyright: Archant 2019)

4. The town itself 

While the surrounding areas are beautiful, don't forget to pop into Fakenham itself on your trip. 

Fakenham Chapel Antiques is a great spot for treasure hunting, Cavies and Cake is a unique guinea pig therapy centre and you can book onto a course at Langham Glass, which relocated to the town. 

READ MORE: Pizza restaurant introducing brunch and Sunday roasts with Italian twist

Wells-next-the-Sea is a short drive from Fakenham Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Archant)

5. A short drive away from the coast

Once you have explored the Fakenham area it is just a short drive to the coast, with Wells-next-the-Sea just 10 miles away. 

Other locations such as Hunstanton, Thornham and Brancaster are each around 30 minutes away by car.