Thornham

Images of Thornham in North Norfolk and the nearby coastline.

Originally a harbour village, Thornham is situated between Titchwell and Holme. About an hour’s drive from Norwich, main access is by the A149 coast road.

 

Thornham has many famed points of interest, one being Coal Barn, which was used as Pip’s house in a BBC production of Great Expectations. A notable focal point on the raw, natural landscape it is the only visible solid structure for several miles, and is subsequently said to be one of the most largely photographed buildings in England.

 

The beach at Thornham is accessed via a walkway flanked by the old windmill that occupies its position as if standing guard. Thornham has very strong military links and World War II ammunition is still found on the beach. There are a number of mud flats and salt marshes, which are protected as part of a nature reserve (The mud on Thornham beach is famous, said to possess healing properties). The dunes and marshes are perfect places to explore.

 

It should be noted that Thornham is also home to an extreme tidal system, which leaves the area difficult to walk along at some times.

 

Thornham village is permeated with history and local myths of smugglers offloading their contraband along the secluded beaches.

 

There are a number of fabulous places to stay, and the beautiful old streets make a stay in Thornham delightful for any traveller, be they nature-lover or historian.

 

Recommended places to visit in and around Thornham:

Opened in August 2009, Vintage Home and Garden has all the hallmarks of becoming one of North Norfolk’s prettiest spaces. Enter in and discover all manner of eclectic wonders for the home and garden, sourced to reflect the current season. The majority of items are unique and authentic period pieces, often singular in number (so once they’re gone, they’re gone).

Vintage Home and Garden. Thornham.

The charming Lifeboat Inn at Thornham is a real North Norfolk treasure. Its coastal location provides breathtaking views towards Thornham beach and it is a romantic, rustic and atmospheric escape.

The Lifeboat Inn. Thornham.

Despite its name, this former Coaching Inn on the North Norfolk Coast is not all it seems… Sure, the frontage looks charming and traditional, and the front bar is also fairly true to its origins as a rustic coastal hostelry, but at the back The Old Coach House is secretly a rather swish Italian restaurant.

The Old Coach House. Thornham.