About Thornham

One of the most picturesque villages on the North Norfolk coast, and a very popular destination, Thornham has much to offer, whether you are looking for a fun, action packed holiday, or a relaxing breather from the pace and drama of day to day life.

Located directly on the coast, between Hunstanton and Brancaster, Thornham was originally a harbour village, famous for its smuggling history. It boasts many historical buildings, including the Coal Barn, allegedly used for smuggling activities, which some say is one of the most photographed buildings in Norfolk. There are also links to Roman times as it is believed Thornham is the location of a Roman fort.

The facilities Thornham offers are excellent for a holiday village, and improving all the time. For eating out there are 2 gastro pub restaurants, both with excellent reputations and within a short walk, including The Orange Tree and the historic smugglers pub, the Lifeboat. Both are dog and family friendly – they are popular so booking is advised!

Thornham has the well visited Thornham Deli. Based alongside the Thornham Cricket Club and Village Hall (complete with playing field and play area) this essential stop off on the A149 offers so much more than its name implies. A restaurant which offers fabulous breakfasts, lunches, main meals, snacks and treats, a deli shop for home-cooked delicacies and a range of local produce. There is also the emporium shop with treats, presents, cards, candles, locally produced wines and spirits, and so much more.

In addition there is Drove Orchards – originally a small farm shop with pick your own fruits, it has expanded significantly in recent years and now includes:

  • A comprehensively stocked farm shop including butcher, delicatessen, fresh coffee and local fruit & veg;
  • Eric’s Fish & Chips;
  • Eric’s Pizza;
  • Gurney’s Fish Hut (for fresh fish sales)
  • A range of specialist shops
  • Garden centre and ice-cream shop
  • Children’s play area

Thornham does have a beach, accessible by a short walk from the Coal Barn parking area or Drove Orchards, very unspoilt and private. There are also numerous walks over the salt marshes and mud flats, and some say the mud has healing properties.

IMG_6129

A 5 minute drive or short trip on the Coasthopper bus line will take you to the delights of Hunstanton, a traditional seaside town, with attractions and shops to match. In the other direction there are Titchwell, Brancaster, with its superb beach and pubs, and on to Burnham Market and Wells-Next-the-Sea.