Burnham Market: A Quintessential 17th Century British Market Village

Burnham Market in Norfolk is a hidden gem along the Norfolk Coast. It’s the perfect spot for a weekend getaway or if you want a digital cleanse and a chance to escape the city chaos. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to places to stay in Burnham Market, the largest of the three Burnham villages.

This charming market village is famous for its celebrity residents, many of whom have chosen Burnham Market as their home away from home. The town is known as ‘Chelsea on Sea’ to some for its popularity with London residents who flock to the village during summer… but don’t let that put you off coming! It is a charming small town which is extremely close to both the beautiful Suffolk and Norfolk coastlines. And, it t has a great range of boutique shops, restaurants and beautiful village walks which allow you to take in the blend of its historic Saxon routes and its modern stylish facilities.  

Where is Burnham Market?

Stepping back in time with a visit to Burnham, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto the set of an Agatha Christie drama with its traditional post office, fish shop, and independent stores. You’ll discover an eclectic array of shops, quaint bed-and-breakfast guest houses, and classic Georgian architecture. 

Burnham Market is ideally situated along the North Norfolk coast, just off the A149, with King’s Lynn being its nearest train station. Again, as with much of East Anglia, the public transport network isn’t something that’s very evident, or reliable, so this area does really need to be investigated by car. 

What is Burnham Market Known For?

Now famous for being a second home for celebrities and Londoners escaping the city, Burnham has had a much more eclectic relationship with people of note in its past. 

Horatio Nelson, one of the most famous navel heroes of our time was born just up the road from here in a pace called Burnham Thorpe which is worth going to for this fact only. Stephen Fry has also lived in this area for many years attracted by its mix of “country and coastal sea air”, this and Sandringham estate is only 10 miles from the town which of course housed the Late Lady Diana who would have passed these streets often in her youth before moving on to regal life elsewhere.

For the modern-day needs, you’ll find everything you need at Burnham Market, from its wine merchant to beauty spas, cosy coffee shops, and traditional fishmonger. 

Fakenham Racecourse is located nearby, hosting a popular Ladies Race Day with many boutique stores offering everything you’ll need to land a spot on the best-dressed list. The Hoste in Burnham Market is one of the village’s most popular destinations as a long-standing institution, offering both dining experiences and accommodation.  

What to Know Before Visiting Burnham Market

If you’re heading to this area for a relaxing few days where time really does slow down, you’ll want to align your visit with one of the monthly markets. The markets are typically hosted in St. Mary’s Westgate Church, welcoming an array of independent businesses. This monthly market happens on Saturdays between 9am and 2pm with seasonal markets held at The Hoste Arms for Easter and Christmas.

Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities and make sure you’re hungry! Burnham Market is famous for its cuisine, whether you want an authentic British afternoon tea, or to indulge in fine dining at The Hoste in Burnham Market. 

Most restaurants and dining options throughout Burnham Market welcome walk-ins, but reservations are recommended for high season. 

Stay and Dine at The Hoste Arms in Burnham Market

Bed and breakfasts and guest houses are the most popular places to stay in Burnham Market. The Hoste in Burnham Market first began as an inn in 1651 and is one of the village’s oldest buildings with over 50 rooms available. The historic Hoste Arms is a hotel, pub, restaurant, and spa all in one, brimming with history and steeped in tradition.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the 17^th-century wood panelling in the restaurant while you indulge in afternoon tea or enjoy bar snacks in the walled garden. Hoste Arms offers treatment rooms for spa appointments and couples massages, ideal for a romantic getaway. It’s one of the best places to stay in Burnham Market for a staycation with a private twenty-person cinema with daily showings. The Hoste Arms serves food daily from 8am to 10pm with walk-ins welcomed. 

Places to Stay in Burnham Market and Nearby Areas

Are you planning a getaway to the Norfolk coast? We’re sharing our recommendations of the best places to stay in Burnham Market to suit every budget.

1. Barefoot Retreats Luxury Self-Catering 

Barefoot Retreats is one of the most popular accommodation options for groups, families, and corporate retreats. These luxury Norfolk cottages are a self-catering option available throughout the North Norfolk coastline. You can choose from an array of dog-friendly cottages and even a boutique hotel in Burnham Market.

 If you’re travelling by car, any of these private homes and cottages are ideal for a trip around the Norfolk coast, from Burnham Market and beyond. Each property is hand-selected to be part of the Barefoot Retreats portfolio. 

2. The Railway Boutique Hotel

‘The Railway’ is a flexible stay boutique hotel in Burnham Market on a room-only accommodation option. This unique luxury hotel has 8 individually designed rooms, a tranquil hot tub, a secluded garden, and a bar. The Railway is a short stroll from the centre of Burnham Market and a few miles drive from the sandy beaches that line the North Norfolk coastline. 

3. Vine House Boutique Hotel

Vine House Boutique Hotel is just a 7-minute walk from the Church of All Saints with an on-site car park available for guests. This 4-star hotel is an intimate experience with just 8 rooms available, each equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV, and tea and coffee-making facilities. 

Your room will be ready with everything you need, including bathrobes and hairdryers. This accommodation is the perfect base for a trip to Burnham Market in Norfolk, located just a 10-minute drive from the National Nature Reserve and the ruins of Creake Abbey. The hotel is within walking distance of Burnham Market and a nearby bus stop for public transport.

Other things to do in the area

1. Burnham overy Staithe is another place to admire the quiet peace which brings such beautiful bird watching potential prevalent in this part of the country. Bird watching, walking, kayaking can while away many happy hours in the summer sunshine whilst on a holiday break
2. Holkham Hall really is an essential place to see when you’re in the area. This is seen as one of the finest architectural mansions anywhere in the country and comes complete with beautiful country park lands filled with deer and other beautiful sites of nature. Designed by William Kent and owned by the Coke family for many years it has opulent interiors, a walled garden, cycle trails and is very close to the beautiful Holkham beach
3. Holkham beach is one of the best beaches we have to offer. Lined with pine woods and beautiful golden sands, this beach is vast and a brilliant way to walk off the lunchtime food stop on any day of the week

Get More Ideas for Your Next UK Getaway

Whether you’re planning a staycation or visiting from further afield, you’re spoilt for choice when planning your next British getaway. Check out our guide to the perfect York weekend, the best hiking trails in London, and the ultimate weekend trip to the Cotswolds. 

The key to a successful British vacation is planning for every type of weather. You never know what the British weather might bring, so pack a waterproof parka. Explore our luxury all-weather outwear, designed to withstand anything the British weather throws at you.