The small town of Fakenham is located on the River Wensum in Norfolk County England. The town dates back to before 1086, when it was recorded in the Domesday Book as having a mere 150 residents. At the time the larger Hempton was the more popular community thanks to its abbey. Fakenham became the major economic center when Henry VIII abolished the abbeys. In 1250 Fakenham received its charter as a market town, a tradition the town still holds to today. Visitors to this little village can enjoy many unique sites and of course, their Thursday market.
One of the most popular attractions in Fakenham is their Thursday market. Located near the original positioning of the markets that began in 1250, the modern-day market is a great place to find local produce and goods. This open air market can get you produce and items local to the area. If you are interested in a nice farmer's market visit Fakenham on the 4th Saturday of the month when the market place plays host to the popular farmer's market during the morning hours.
For those that like a little action visit the Fakenham Racecourses. This rural racecourse was founded in the early 1900s that has of course been updated throughout the years. The most recent modernization of the course came in 2000 with the addition of the Prince of Wales Stand. The racecourse boasts many races throughout the year so visitors will have ample opportunity to enjoy the fun.
For those interested in learning about the past be sure to visit the Fakenham Museum of Gas. Housed in the town's former gasworks building this museum is home to not only information about the town's production of gas from coal, which the gasworks performed between 1846 and its retirement in 1965, but information about the town's history. This history includes its roles in the military and printing industry, which was the town's major industry form the 1800 through the 1900s. The building itself is of historical significance too, it is the lone surviving gasworks building in England.
The Pensthorpe Nature Reserve is a great place for those who love the great outdoors. The 500 acres of countryside is home to many different kinds of wildlife that visitors can see. Known for its wide variety of birds that take up residence here, it is a great place for bird watchers to hang out. There are also miles of woodland and trails for families to travel and wander.
Families can enjoy the Thursford Collection. This old-time fairground has carousel rides for families to ride. They also have mechanical and steam-driven organs, including the Robert Wolfe organ which plays daily recitals. There are also Dickensian-style shops and cafes to visit and shop at. Visitors that are in Fakenham during the Christmas time can enjoy the largest Christmas Spectacular in the country.
Fakenham was at one time called "the most boring place on Earth" thanks to shops closing early on Wednesday afternoons, but it couldn't be further from the truth. With its many things to do Fakenham is a great place for visitors to enjoy.
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