Start your day at Shambles Cafe Bar & Bistro (www.shamblescafenorfolk.co.uk), just off the Market Place in a Grade II listed 17th century building full of character. With exposed beams, a courtyard garden and friendly service, it’s a welcoming place to kick things off. The menu features brunch favourites including full English, shakshuka and a good range of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free alternatives, alongside fresh pastries and locally roasted coffee. Whether you’re after something hearty or a quick bite, there’s plenty to tempt you. The cafe also supports local artists, with work displayed throughout the year.  

Take a gentle stroll or cycle along the North Walsham and Dilham Canal (www.nwdct.org), which opened in 1826 and is Norfolk’s only locked sailing canal. Once busy with wherries carrying goods, today it’s a peaceful route lined with wildflowers and reeds, perfect for spotting kingfishers, dragonflies and other wildlife. The flat towpath is easy-going, and benches provide moments to pause and enjoy the view. If you have time, detour into Pigneys Wood, a Norfolk Wildlife Trust managed nature reserve (www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk) with its meandering woodland paths, ancient trackway and 450-year-old oak tree. North Walsham is also an intersection point for the Weavers Way and Paston Way, with walking route guides available on North Walsham Town Council’s website at www.nwtc.org.uk/local-walks

Step inside St Nicholas’, Norfolk’s largest wool church. The tower is said to have been the second tallest in Norfolk until its partial collapse in 1724. Today, visitors can admire the church’s medieval stonework, colourful stained glass and tranquil chapels. A short stroll away, a plaque at Paston College honours Admiral Lord Nelson, who studied here from 1768 to 1771, later becoming one of Britain’s greatest naval heroes.

Wander through the Thursday Market, a tradition dating back to 1275, when North Walsham was granted the right to hold a weekly market by Royal Charter of Henry III. Stalls fill the Market Place with fresh produce, Norfolk cheeses, plants and gifts, set around the Grade I listed Market Cross which dates from the early 17th century, replacing an earlier building which was destroyed by the Great Fire of North Walsham in 1600. Managed by the town council, the market remains a vibrant part of community life.

Discover more of North Walsham’s story at the Heritage Centre (www.northwalshamheritage.org.uk), tucked inside the Saddlers Rooms. This compact but fascinating free museum traces the town’s medieval wool trade, its role in the 1381 Peasants’ Revolt and the rise of North Walsham as a busy market hub for surrounding villages. Exhibits include historic maps, shop signs and a rotating display of photographs and memorabilia. Run by dedicated volunteers, it’s an essential stop for anyone interested in Norfolk’s rich history. 

Stay active with a visit to the Victory Swim and Fitness Centre, managed by Everyone Active (www.everyoneactive.com). The modern facility features a spacious swimming pool, a fully equipped gym and bright studio hosting a wide range of classes, from yoga and low impact sessions to high energy workouts. Families can enjoy dedicated fun swim sessions with floats and inflatables, and accessible features including a pool lift ensure everyone can take part. It is a great choice for keeping fit, trying a new class, or simply relaxing with a swim. North Walsham also celebrates sporting success as the hometown of England women’s footballer Lauren Hemp, a source of pride for the local community.

Detour to the Norfolk Motorcycle Museum (www.norfolkmotorcyclemuseum.co.uk), which showcases more than 100 classic and vintage bikes. Run by passionate volunteers, the museum offers an intimate look at British motorcycling history, with well-preserved machines and fascinating stories behind the makers.  

Catch a show at Black Swan Loke (www.newstages.co.uk), a friendly community pub and theatre venue with a calendar of live performances. From comedy nights and music gigs to small-scale plays, there’s always something entertaining to enjoy. The intimate setting makes every show feel personal, and you can enjoy a drink in the bar afterwards. Check the website for current listings.  

End your day at the award-winning Beechwood Hotel (www.beechwood-hotel.co.uk), just a short walk from the town centre. Its rooms are individually styled with antique furnishings and thoughtful touches. The Art Deco restaurant serves seasonal Norfolk dishes, and throughout the hotel you’ll find Agatha Christie memorabilia. Guests can also relax in the reading room, stocked with all of Christie’s novels, a fitting tribute to the crime writer who stayed here in the 1930s, when it was a private house.  

Photography © Rachel Bowles