DOWNHAM Market in Norfolk has been dubbed a “Gingerbread Town” – because of the colour of its buildings.
The moniker is because of the colour of the sandstone bricks, created by fusing local white brick and carrstone to make the gingerbread colour.
Having been a town for over 2,000 years, it officially became a market town in 1046, making it one of the oldest of its kind in Norfolk.
Because of its long history, there are plenty of noteworthy buildings to visit including Downham Market Town Hall, which is one of the main buildings to have the gingerbread ‘slabs’.
Another example of the “Gingerbread brick” can be found on the corner of Priory Road and London Road.
Head to the Discover Downham Heritage Centre to find out about the town’s history as well.
The tiny museum has a number of artefacts and interactive displays to look at as well as workshops including weaving and mosaic making.
Entry into Discover Downham Heritage Centre costs £4 per person.
Downham Market’s black and white clock tower is another key landmark in the town, which opened in 1878.
Meanwhile, The Fen Rivers Way Footpath also runs directly through the Norfolk town, which means day-trippers to Downham Market will be able to get into the countryside without a hitch.
And if you need a drink at the end, the town has a much-loved Wetherspoons which locals have raved about.
The Whalebone is a Grade II Listed building, that dates back to the 18th century.
Its name is a nod to the whaling trade that once flourished in the area, with its walls adorned with other historical memorabilia.
The pub has a 4/5 star rating on Google from more than 1,600 reviews.
One person wrote: “Easily one of, if not, the best beer garden I’ve come across at a Wetherspoon pub and restaurant.”
Another person added: “It’s friendly and I love the way they have incorporated historical elements into the decorating of the Whalebone.”
There are several other pubs in Downham Market, including The Live and Let Live.
The Norfolk Cheese Co & Delicatessen is a highly-rated restaurant in the area too, with a 5/5 star rating on Google.
For holidaymakers who want to stay overnight, rooms at the Crown Hotel start from £83 per night.
The unassuming hotel was where the “Bread Riots” took place in 1816.
King Charles I was also said to have hidden in an Inn in Downham Market in the 17th century.
The former king disguised as a clergyman in an attempt to evade capture by Parliamentary forces after the battle of Naseby.
Downham Market can be reached on a direct train from London King’s Cross, with services taking 100 minutes.
Best staycation locations for 2024
Bristol
The arty harbour city was the top spot on the list and is bursting with culture and trendy cafes scattered along the River Avon.
A bubbling hub for creatives, Bristol is the birthplace of street artist Banksy, and you can admire some of his best early works on a free walking tour.
2. Hull
The Humberside port city started to get recognition last year, and it has a thriving nightlife scene – if that’s something you’re after.
The old town is crawling with history and classy buildings, whose walls have many stories to tell and The Deep is a fascinating aquarium attraction.
3. Isles of Scilly
Just off the Cornish coast, it’s easy to see why the archipelago made it into the top three.
Here, you can expect golden sandy beaches where you will be able to spot dolphins beyond the shoreline, as well as seafront pubs serving up hearty grub.
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