broughtto
Spout Hills
Welcome to Holt...
Holt Town Council welcomes you to Holt, an attractive Georgian town in North Norfolk which has so much to see and do throughout the year.
Holt is probably best known for the huge selection of independent shops, quirky shopping yards and large choice of delicious eateries. However, Holt also offers visitors a quick escape into the Norfolk countryside. Away from the hustle and bustle at the bottom of the High Street, lies Spout Hills, which is 14 acres of Common Land, full of natural springs, which becomes a playground for dogs in the warmer months. Holt also boasts a Country Park with sculpture trail and café, which is a firm family favourite, along with the large play park on Peacock Lane named after King George V.
On the edge of town lies the Holt Station where a heritage steam train connects Holt to the seaside town of Sheringham. A popular event on the railway is the ‘Steam back to the 40’s’ event on 21st and 22nd September 2024.
Holt hosts the Holt Festival between 13th-28th July 2024, a must for art and music lovers, the festival often attracts well known artists and as such has grown in popularity.
Holt is one of the first Norfolk towns to celebrate the beginning of Christmas festivities with the Holt Lights Night. This year, the event will take place on Friday 15th November 2024. A popular event with families, there is always an appearance from Father Christmas, bag pipers’ parade through the streets, there is a Christmas market, and the night is rounded off with a fantastic firework display.
The Tourist Information on White Lion Street offers lots of useful information for local walking (including the Holt Owl Trail, which is a circular walk around the town), cycling and information on visiting the nearby North Norfolk Heritage Coast, the centre is run by volunteers who are full of local knowledge and helpful tips for getting the most out of your stay.
We hope you enjoy your North Norfolk Adventure!
History of Holt...
Holt is mentioned in William the Conqueror’s 1086 Domesday Book as a settlement. 1,000 years ago, Holt was a thriving community, this is attributed to its geographical position, importance in trading terms and proximity to natural springs.
On 1st May 1708, a huge fire broke out amongst the market stalls. It swept through the town and its wooden buildings, sadly most of the town (including the Church) was reduced to ruins. Over the next 100 years, Holt was rebuilt using brick, stone and flint. As a result, the Market Place and High Street are predominantly Georgian. The back lanes, streets and yards are predominantly Victorian. The town has many attractive flint stone ‘yards’, originally small Victorians homes which have now been put to other uses as shops and offices.
Holt was rebuilt at an estimated cost of £11,258, with the help of a royal brief.
The Market Place has a fine war memorial which was unveiled in 1921. The Queen Victoria 1887 Jubilee Column (the lantern referred to as “Blind Sam”) was moved to Obelisk Plain to make room
for the memorial. The War Memorial was designed by the Architect Mr J. Page from Langham near Blakeney in 1919 and erected in 1920. It is a magnificent 20-foot-high spire erected on a square plinth.
The original manor house (situated not far from the Parish Church) was the home of Sir John Gresham. He was a wealthy Tudor merchant who was a onetime financial agent of Cardinal Wolsey. He also became Lord Mayor of London. The manor house became a free grammar school in 1562. Sir John persuaded the Fishmongers Company of London to accept charitable and managerial responsibility for the school. This trust has been kept to this day. Above the doorway of the present entrance in Station Road is a plaque bearing the coat of arms of the Fishmongers Company and the Gresham family probably dating from the 16th century. The pupils of Gresham’s (as the school is now called) still wear a badge bearing the two crests on their blazers. The School was rebuilt in 1858. In 1900, the school was said to be one of the wealthiest educational charities in the country.
Hoppers Yard
Forest Lodges is a unique development of self-catering timber lodges surrounded by lush pine forests
This is a peaceful place to chill out and escape from the crowds. We are 5 minutes drive from the coast at Weybourne and near the North Norfolk Railway (Poppy line) which runs between Holt and Sheringham. We have over 100 acres of our own unspoilt forest which adjoins Sheringham Park. Well-behaved dogs welcome.
Calender of Events...
Holt Makers Market:
First Sunday of the month from April to December
Holt Festival: July 20th-27th
Sheringham Carnival: August 4th-10th
Kelling Heath Beer & Gin Festival: September 5th-8th
Autumn Spectacular, Blakeney Nature Reserve: October 30th
Remembrance Day: November 10th
Christmas Lights Switch On: November 15th
North Norfolk Railway:
Steam Back to the Forties: September 21st & 22nd
Autumn Showcase: October 5th & 6th
Hallowsteam! October 30th-November 2nd
Santa Specials: Weekends from November 23rd-December 22nd
Thursford Christmas Spectacular: November 8th-December 23rd
Holt Railway Station
Image: Kev Gregory/Shutterstock.com
Shopping & Eating in Holt...
Holt is a stunning 18th century Georgian town and you could be forgiven for simply spending your day wandering around the High Street, Market Place and the numerous side lanes and yards. The architecture is beautiful and the relaxed pace of life here really allows you unwind and while away the time.
However, if you enjoy a bit of retail therapy, you have come to the right place! The High Street, lanes and yards have an eclectic mix of notable high street names such as: Joules, FatFace, Mountain Warehouse, White Stuff, Fairfax & Favor alongside East Anglian favourites such as: Adnams, Tilley & Grace, Harris & James and Gun Hill Clothing.
What adds to this great shopping experience is the variety that is brought to the town by the many independent retailers. Pop into The Tannery to find a wide range of high quality leather goods including, gloves, bags, shoes, belts and accessories. Visit Hidden Treasures of Holt where you will see lots of locally made gifts, home décor, wellbeing products as well as vintage clothing and antiques.
Head to The Osokozi Gallery and take your time perusing the mix of jewellery, ethnic artefacts and quality greeting cards.
If at the end of a busy day, you like to pick up a good book and lose yourself in the pages of a good read, then you have to pay a visit to Holt Book Shop. Proud to be an independent book shop, pop in a see a wide range of all genres for any taste and age alongside cards, maps and local books. The Market Place is home to Bakers & Larners of Holt. Established in 1770, this traditional department store is a fixture in the centre of town and your ‘go to’ place for pretty much anything from food to fashion, furniture to pets, and DIY to garden supplies. This is just a taster of what you will find in Holt but you are sure to discover plenty of hidden gems on your shopping trip to Holt!
Image:
Peter
All this shopping is hard work, you will have worked up an appetite and are sure to need a break to rest tired feet. Holt has you covered, there are pubs, cafés and restaurants galore!
If you enjoy a slice of history with your cake, pay a visit to Owl Tea Rooms. Established in 1929, the team here bake everything in-house in what is considered Norfolk’s oldest tea room. Food is served all day from breakfast, lunch and tea and the gorgeous hidden garden is the perfect spot to enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of the high street.
Perhaps you fancy a trip to the pub, in which case The Kings Head is the place to go. This traditional Gastro-pub is family and dog friendly and has seating indoors and outside. Serving delicious food using
seasonal local produce along with a bar stocked with all your favourite tipples, you can’t go wrong!
Of course, you can’t come to the North Norfolk Coast and not have fish and chips. Fresh and simple seaside favourites are what it is all about at Eric’s Fish and Chips. The finest line caught cod and real local beer in the batter make these fish and chips unforgettable! Naturally, takeaway is available but there is also a relaxed familyfriendly restaurant offering the option to eat in.
If you're on the hunt for a quaint English town brimming with charm, Holt is a top contender. Nestled in the picturesque countryside, Holt offers a delightful mix of history, nature, and quirky spots that make for a perfect day out or a leisurely weekend getaway. Here are a few ideas for some of the must-see and do activities in and around Holt.
Strolling through the town:
Start your adventure with a leisurely stroll through Holt's charming streets. The town is a treasure trove of Georgian architecture, thanks to a massive fire in 1708 that led to much of it being rebuilt in this elegant style. Wander through the maze of alleyways and courtyards (known locally as "yards") and you'll find an array of independent shops, cafés, and galleries.
Don’t miss Bakers & Larners of Holt, a department store that’s been serving the community since 1770. It's the perfect spot to pick up some local delicacies or a unique souvenir. If you’re a book lover, pop into Holt Bookshop, a cosy independent bookshop with a great selection of titles.
Things to see & do in Holt...
Embrace the art and culture:
Holt has a vibrant arts scene. The Bircham Gallery is a must-visit for contemporary British art, featuring works from both established and up-andcoming artists. If you’re in town during July, you’re in for a treat with the Holt Festival, a week-long celebration of the arts with performances, exhibitions, and events scattered throughout the town.
Get back to nature:
A short drive from Holt takes you to some stunning natural spots. Holt Country Park is a lovely green space with trails that weave through woodland and heathland. It’s perfect for a peaceful walk, a picnic, or even a bit of birdwatching.
For a bit more adventure, head to the North Norfolk coast. The coastal village of Blakeney is just a few miles away and offers some of the best coastal walks in the area. Blakeney Point is famous for its seal colony, and you can take a boat trip to see these playful creatures up close. It's a magical experience, especially if you have kids in tow.
Historical highlights:
History buffs will find plenty to explore in and around Holt. Take a trip to the Muckleburgh Military Collection, located just a short drive away. It’s the largest privately-owned military museum in the UK and houses an impressive collection of tanks, artillery, and other military memorabilia. www.muckleburgh.co.uk
Closer to town, Holt's own history can be delved into at the Holt Owl Trail. Follow the map in this guide on pages 22-23, or pick one up from the Tourist Information Centre and follow the trail of bronze owl plaques around the town. Each stop tells a different story about Holt’s past, making it a fun and educational activity for all ages.
Venture slightly further afield:
• Felbrigg Hall: History buffs will love Felbrigg Hall. This grand National Trust property boasts gorgeous gardens, a stately home filled with antiques, and sprawling parklands to explore. It’s a perfect mix of culture and nature.
• Wells-next-the-Sea: This charming coastal town has it all! A beautiful sandy beach, quaint shops, and tasty fish and chips. Wander along the harbour, explore the pinewoods, or just chill out on the beach. Perfect for a lazy day by the sea.
• Sheringham Park: For nature lovers, Sheringham Park is a gem. Designed by famous landscape gardener Humphry Repton, the park offers lovely walking trails, vibrant rhododendrons in bloom, and panoramic views of the coast. Pack a picnic and enjoy the great outdoors.
Conclusion:
Holt may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to things to see and do. Whether you’re wandering its historic streets, soaking up the local culture, exploring the beautiful Norfolk countryside, or indulging in some delicious food, there’s something here for everyone. You won’t be disappointed!
Sheringham Park
Felbrigg Hall
A brilliant gallery in a historic village with interesting shops, eateries and walks. Relax and explore, park at the Village Hall car park or see our websites.
pinkfootgallery.co.uk redharepublishing.co.uk
HIGH STREET • CLEY • NR25 7RB
Events Tours Weddings
WALKS open everyday
Boardwalk & Bird Hide
Events wTo ur w s Weddings
Café Shop Plant Sales w w w w
Walks open everyday
GARDENS open late May-Sept
C a f é w S h o p w Pl a n t Sales
Gardens open 26 May - 1 September 2019 Wednesdays, Thursday, Fridays & Sundays 11am - 5pm
Walks open everyday
Gardens open 24 May - 6 September 2020 Weds, Thurs, Fri & Sundays 11am-5pm
Special parties/weddings – just ask For events, see website
www.manningtonestate.co.uk
admin@walpoleestate.co.uk 01263 584175
www manningtonestate.co.uk admin@walpoleestate.co.uk 01263 584175 NR11 7BB
Jane Hodgson Rachael Lockwood
THEFAIRSTEAD
TOWNCLOSE HIGHSTREET WESTON SQUARE CROSSSTREET
Map
CARPENTERSCOTTAGES
CROMERROAD
ST. ANDREW THE APOSTLE
The Holt Owl Trail...
The Holt Owl Trail is designed to take you on a tour of the historic Georgian town of Holt. You can learn more about each individual plaque as well as fascinating facts, interesting anecdotes and details of additional ‘looped trails’ revealing some of Holt’s hidden locations by visiting: www.holtowltrail.co.uk
The Holt Owl Trail
Robin Hood 2024
Suranne Jones (Theatre President) with
Youth Choir
Holt Youth Project is known locally as a ‘can do’ organisation, always evolving to meet the need of its community. We are passionately committed to serving young people to the best of our ability and are proud to have been recognised as ‘one of England’s most imaginative youth projects’ by the press. We have also been awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
As a group of dedicated staff and volunteers, we also hold awards for our dedication to youth including a British Empire Medal to our Manager Julie Alford who also gained other awards including The High Sheriff’s Award and an award for outstanding service to the community from NNDC. Retired Chairman Dick Copas who worked tirelessly for many years was also awarded the BEM for his outstanding work benefiting children and young people within the community.
Services we deliver:
• SPace: Bespoke support session for young people experiencing feelings of anxiety and emotional difficulties providing one-to-one mentoring, nurture group activities and workshops, walk and talk sessions, advice and signposting.
• A.C.T: Achieving Confidence Training. An alternative provision for mainstream school delivering City & Guilds accredited qualifications. Providing support with moving on to independent living, higher education, apprenticeships or employment.
• HIVE: Youth-led programme of activities and workshops supporting young people to gain confidence and positive outcomes to reach their aspirations.
• Reboot: A service supporting isolated young men in a safe space offering a place to talk and take part in shared experiences.
Holt Youth Project...
• North Norfolk Young Carers: Providing support, activities and respite for children and young people who find themselves in a caring role within the family environment.
• Mini Hive: Providing structured activities in a fun and safe environment for primary school children.
• Pavilion: Supporting the community with free pre-loved clothing.
The young people of Holt Youth Project have earned many awards and accolades and some have gone on to achieve amazing things both in their own lives and also as representatives of their project.
Our greatest reward however, is seeing young people turn their lives around and fulfil their dreams and aspirations, empowering them to attain their full potential, whatever their background or need.
To learn more about the Holt Youth Project, contact us on: 01263 710918, email: office@holtyouthproject.org.uk or visit: www.holtyouthproject.org.uk
Old Station Way, Holt, NR25 6DH
Dog Friendly Holt...
Whether you’re lucky enough to live in Holt, visiting for a day, or are here on holiday, if you’re a dog owner, you’ll know how important it is to involve your four-legged friend in you plans. Luckily, this area offers plenty of dog friendly accommodation, outdoor activities and places to eat or rest weary legs and paws.
Walks: You’re spoilt for choice here with beautiful walks right on the doorstep.
• Head west out of town on the A148 and within half a mile (5 minute walk from the town) you’re at Spout Hills. There’s plenty of room to roam along the paths and around meadows and the lovely stream running through to middle is perfect to cool paws on a warm day.
• Venture south and you will find Holt Country Park. This is walkable at around 25 minutes from the town but also has onsite parking at just £2.30 per day. Acres and acres of woodland and heathland to explore with multiple colour-coded trails of varying lengths and routes to follow.
• Fancy a beach trip? North Norfolk is famous for endless beaches and big skies. The closest to Holt is Cley which is around 4 miles north. The shingle beach offers lovely views out to the North Sea and back inland over the saltmarshes. There’s a pay-and-stay car park on-site and dogs are welcome on the beach throughout the year so they can run, swim and play for as long as you can keep up with them!
Eating out:
• The Kings Head: A traditional gastro-pub in the heart of the town. Dine in the bar area, or make the most of good weather and eat alfresco on the terrace.
• Michael’s Bistro: Great news, Holt’s newest eatery is dog friendly! Pop in for fantastic breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, all cooked using fresh, local ingredients.
• Owl Tea Rooms: All-day café and tea garden serving delicious homemade breakfast, lunch and tea. Dogs are very welcome in the stunning secret garden.
• Glaven Bistro: Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, teas, coffees and cakes, showcasing the very best of local produce from Norfolk.
Vets: Just in case your dog should feel under the weather while visiting Holt, the nearest veterinary clinics are: Glaven Vets: Oaklands House, Old Station Way, Holt, NR25 6DH, 01263 713200 & Toll Barn Vets: Heath Road, North Walsham, NR28 0JB, 01692 407126
Guidance for dog walkers:
• Be aware of, and adhere to, restrictions limiting where dogs can go, particularly if it impacts local wildlife or livestock.
• Keep your dog close to you and under your control at all times.
• Use a lead when needed or requested.
• Prevent your dog from approaching cordoned areas.
• Always bag and bin your dog’s waste.
Barney & Fulmodeston Cricket Club
The Playing Field, The Drift, Barney, Fakenham NR21 0AD barneyfulmodeston.play-cricket.com
Coastal Rowing Association
The Carnser, Blakeney, Norfolk, NR25 7NE president@blakeneyrowing.uk crablakeney.wordpress.com
Holt Bowls Club
The Playing Field, Kelling Road, Holt, NT25 6TX 07548 030652 www.holtbowlsclub.co.uk
Holt Rugby Club
Bridge Road, Holt, NR25 6QT 01263 713828 www.holtrfc.com
Holt Sea Angling Club 07780 793141 www.holtsac.com
Holt Sports Centre
Woodfield Road, Holt, NR25 6TX 01263 711217
Holt Squash Club
Gresham’s School, Cromer Road, Holt NR25 6AE 01263 714518
Holt Tennis Club
Gresham’s School, Cromer Road, Holt, NR25 6EA 01263 714506
Holt United FC & Holt United Youth FC
Woodfield Road, Holt, NR25 6TX 01263 711217
www.holtunitedyouthfc.uk
North Norfolk Harriers Athletic Club
Cromer Road, Holt, NR25 6EA www.theharriers.com
North Norfolk Hockey Club
Holt Road, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8ND northnorfolkhockey@gmail.com
North Norfolk Wheelers Cycling Club www.nnwheelers.co.uk
Sheringham Cricket Club
Weybourne Road, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8HF www.sheringham.play-cricket.com
Sheringham Golf Club
Sweetbriar Lane, Sheringham, NR25 8HG 01263 823488 www.sheringhamgolfclub.co.uk
Tsunami Martial Arts
The Venue, Holt, NR25 6DN 07827 337503 www.tsunami-martial-arts.com
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Are you involved in a sports group/club local to Holt or the surrounding area? To be included in our next edition, please email details to: david.burns@micropress.co.uk
Holt Clubs & Groups...
Holt Community Centre:
Offers a range of activities and events, including arts and crafts, fitness classes and community meetings. Kerridge Way, Holt 01263 713427 www.thevenueholt.com
Horth Norfolk U3A
(University of the Third Age):
Provides opportunities for those no longer in full-time employment to continue their educational, social and creative interests in a friendly environment. www.northnorfolku3a.org.uk
Holt WI (Women's Institute):
A local branch of the Women's Institute that organises a variety of activities including talks, workshops and social gatherings. www.norfolk.thewi.org.uk
High Kelling Garden Club:
A group for gardening enthusiasts that hosts meetings, talks and visits to gardens and nurseries.
High Kelling Village Hall, 15 Avenue Road, Holt E: hkgcsecretary@gmail.com
Holt Bridge Club:
A club for those interested in playing bridge, offering regular sessions for members to play and improve their skills.
High Kelling Village Hall, 15 Avenue Road, Holt
Holt Art Group:
A collective for local artists to meet, share their work, and participate in exhibitions and art-related events.
All Saints Church, Holt www.holtchurch.org/whats-on /arts-and-crafts
The Holt Society:
A group dedicated to the preservation of the Georgian centre of Holt. www.theholtsociety.org
Holt Youth Project:
Provides activities and support for young people in Holt and across north Norfolk, including educational programs, social events, and recreational activities. Old Station Way, Holt www.holtyouthproject.org.uk
These are just a few clubs and groups that offer a great way to get involved in the local community, meet new people, and pursue hobbies and interests. Please visit the town council offices where you may be able to find out about other groups and clubs in the area.
Holt Railway Station
Image: yackers1/Shutterstock.com
Manufacturers & Suppliers of: Curtains & Curtain Poles, Roller Blinds, Pleated Blinds, Vertical Blinds, Venetian Blinds, Vision Blinds ,Perfect Fit Blinds, Fly screens, Wooden Shutters, Wooden Venetians Dutch Canopies, Awnings and much more..
Citizens Advice Bureau:
Kerridge Way, Holt, NR25 6DN 0800 144 8848
www.ncab.org.uk
Foodbank:
Holt Foodbank, Holt Youth Project, Old Station Way, Holt, NR25 6DH 07826 376343
Every Friday from 1pm at Holt Youth Project
E: info@northnorfolk.foodbank.org.uk
Holt Community Primary School: Norwich Road, Holt, NR25 6SG 01263 713107
www.holt.norfolk.sch.uk
E: office@holt.norfolk.sch.uk
Holt Dental Care:
Caxton House, Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW 01263 802556
Holt Festival: 01263 712635
www.holtfestival.org
E: enquiry@holtfestival.org
Holt Library: 9 Church Street, Holt, NR25 6BB 01263 172202
E: libraries@norfolk.gov.uk
Holt Medical Practice:
Kelling Hospital, Old Cromer Road, High Kelling, Holt, NR25 6QA 01263 712461
www.holt-practice.nhs.uk
Local Information & Contacts...
Holt Town Council: Nelson House, 2 White Lion Street, Holt, NR25 6BA 01263 712149
www.holttowncouncil.org
E: info@holttowncouncil.org
Holt Youth Project: Old Station Way, Holt, NR25 6DH 01263 710918
www.holtyouthproject.org.uk
Norfolk County Council: 01603 222322 www.norfolk.gov.uk
Norfolk Police: 101
North Norfolk District Council: Council Offices, Holt Road, Cromer, NR27 9EN 01263 513811
www.north-norfolk.gov.uk
North Norfolk Railway: Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, NR26 8RA 01263 820800
www.nnrailway.co.uk
E: enquiries@nnrailway.co.uk
The Owl Playschool: Owl Play School, Valley Lane, Holt, NR25 6SF 01263 715617
Pharmacy (Boots): 21 High Street, Holt, NR25 6BN 01263 712160
Wansbeck Dental Practice: Wansbeck House, 6 White Lion Street, Holt, NR25 6BA 01263 710757
St. Andrew the Apostle Church, Holt, NR25
GARDEN
SERVING DELICIOUS, HOMEMADE BREAKFAST, LUNCH & TEA
BOOKING RECOMMENDED
DOGS WELCOME IN OUR SECRET GARDEN DON’T
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