Talk of the town: Fakenham
14th May 2025
Fakenham combines beautiful countryside, fascinating history and a thriving local community. Join Rachel Bowles for a leisurely walk through this market town and discover some of her favourite spots
Start your day right with a visit to Taylor’s Café, a local favourite known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious homemade breakfast and brunch offerings. The menu includes traditional full English breakfasts, avocado toast, hearty loaded waffles, and yoghurt with fruit and granola. Enjoy your meal with a freshly brewed coffee in a welcoming space that has become a staple for the community. It’s the perfect spot to refuel before heading out for the day. Find them on Facebook.
Step back in time with the Fakenham Lancaster Heritage Trail, a journey that pays tribute to the town’s full name, Fakenham Lancaster, dating back to 1377. This name originated when John of Gaunt, the 1st Duke of Lancaster, was granted the manor of Fakenham. This self-guided trail will lead you through the town’s most iconic historic landmarks. Along the way, you’ll discover 32 blue plaques, each with a QR code linking you to the relevant webpage with detailed information, audio, video, and images about Fakenham’s past. It’s a fun and informative way to explore the town’s rich history. Find out more at www.flht.co.uk
Get involved with the community and stay active through Active Fakenham. This volunteer-run organisation partners with local businesses and community groups to offer a variety of events and activities. Whether you’re interested in walking, running, sports clubs, or yoga classes, there’s something for everyone. Join in the fun at the Fakenham Riverside Festival on 15 June with the raft race and more laid-back duck race, both taking place on the River Wensum, and all made possible by the Active Fakenham community. Head to www.activefakenham.org.uk/events for full details.
Stroll along Fakenham’s scenic River Walk, a path that follows the meandering River Wensum. This tranquil route offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and is teeming with wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled – you might be lucky enough to spot a kingfisher! More commonly, you’ll see tufted ducks, little grebes, grey wagtails, and even brown trout in the clear waters. There are two main looped paths to explore, but these also connect with several other trails, making it easy to tailor the walk to your preferred length. If you opt for the main two-mile loop, you’ll arrive at the impressive Three-Brick-Arches Bridge, which is marked as plaque number 30 on the town’s heritage trail. You can download a map of the route and connecting paths from www.activefakenham.org.uk. Free parking is available just behind the Museum of Gas and Local History.
Marvel at the artistry of hand-blown glass at Langham Glass, a family-run business known for its expert craftsmanship. Watch glassmakers at work as they transform molten glass into stunning, intricate pieces right before your eyes. Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at the craft and create your own unique piece to take home. Whether you’re getting hands-on, selecting the perfect souvenir, or simply admiring the skill and precision on display, a visit to Langham Glass promises a fascinating experience.
Create something unique with the guidance of Claire Howard, a local jewellery maker. Her workshops let you craft stacking rings, bangles, cuffs, or hammered stud earrings. Located in the town centre, Claire’s shop showcases her own handcrafted pieces, known for their quality and distinctive designs. Her jewellery makes the perfect gift or keepsake, from elegant necklaces to intricate earrings. Inspired by the local landscape, Claire’s Norfolk Beach collection celebrates shells, sunsets, and blue skies, a beautiful reminder of this special place.
Discover Pensthorpe, a great destination for nature enthusiasts. Just a short drive from Fakenham, this award-winning 700-acre sanctuary offers an immersive experience in stunning landscapes. Wander through diverse habitats, from woodlands and wetlands to vibrant wildflower meadows. The park boasts peaceful spots, such as bird watching hides and tranquil gardens, perfect for spotting a variety of species. If you’re visiting with young ones, they’ll love exploring nature trails, indoor and outdoor play areas, and participating in seasonal activities like pond dipping and craft workshops. Don’t forget to pick up some bird food from the shop and enjoy the simple pleasure of feeding the birds as you explore this picturesque park.
Enjoy a trip to Fakenham Racecourse, renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and hosting a variety of National Hunt events through the year. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or simply wish to experience the excitement of race day, a visit here offers something for everyone. With a history dating back to 1905 and royal patronage that continues to this day, the course blends tradition with community collaboration. Coming up next is the ever-popular Ladies Day on 1 June, which promises to be a celebration of fashion, fun and racing.
Finish your day with a visit to Fat Cow Burgers, where great food is served in a bucolic setting. Tucked away in a wildflower meadow, this outdoor eatery dishes up juicy smash burgers piled high with your choice of toppings, golden crispy fries, and soft-serve ice cream during their open season. Enjoy your meal at picnic benches beneath a canopy, festoon lights twinkling above and mellow music setting the tone, while you kick back and reflect on your day exploring. Find them on Facebook.
