It’s become known as Chelsea-by-the Sea because
of its high property prices, regular sightings of celebrities and
up-market shops; but what is it that makes Burnham Market so special?
Richard Parr despatched a few lines.
Please note that the postcard from series
ended in 2004 and that descriptions of shops and services were correct at
time of going to press
Where
is it:? From Norwich, take the A1076 Fakenham Road,
then get onto the A148 Fakenham to King’s Lynn road, turning
off just after Fakenham onto the B1355 which takes you straight
there. From King’s Lynn, take the A148 road to Hillington
and then the B1153 for a lovely scenic journey to the village.
What’s
so special?
Over the years Burnham Market has increasingly attracted visitors
to its village green centre surrounded by its mix of hostelries,
gift shops, antique shops, book shops and delicatessens. It has
a very English feel and people just love strolling around hoping
for a glimpse of one of the many celebrities who often visit there.
“Must see” while there.
People just like to stroll around the village green area and take
in the atmosphere of its unusual and interesting mix of restaurants
and shops. Don’t forget to visit the two churches at either
end of the village, Burnham Westgate Church and All Saint’s
Church.
Places to eat?
The village centre offers a variety of places, including its two
most famous establishments, The Hoste Arms, with its restaurants,
bar and Zulu wing; and the neighbouring Fishes Restaurant,
which serves up treats for lovers of fish and seafood. There is
also The Village Tearoom and, just away from the main centre,
you’ll find the Lord Nelson pub. You can also shop at the
wonderful Humble Pie delicatessen, Grooms’ bakery, Gurney’s
fish shop and Satchell’s wine shop and make a selection
for your afternoon picnic on a nearby beach.
Any retail therapy
opportunities?
People love visiting Burnham Market for its limited, but fascinating
selection of shops. Pentney House is a treasure trove of gifts
(many at only £1 each) while upstairs is an myriad of millinery
with thousands of hats for every occasion.
The Post Office is much more than just that and, beyond the counter,
is an Aladdin’s cave of gifts, toys and cards. Call into
Treasure Island (where the late Princess Margaret was said to
have bought her Christmas presents), the Brazen Head bookshop
and gallery and the White Horse bookshop; and don’t forget
Gun Hill clothes, Gilly’s clothes shops, and the pretty
Burnham Blooms flower shop on the outskirts.
Annual events?
Try to catch one of the famous Burnham Market summer classical concerts
in August; and, if you haven’t been before, you’ll love
the Craft Fair on August 18. In November the village takes on a
completely different atmosphere as crowds gather for the Christmas
lights switch-on, which is usually performed by a celebrity.
