Pictures of Thornham

About Thornham

This is an area renowned for its wild marshes inhabited by a rich variance of bird life, thus Thornham draws to its shores a goodly share of ornithologists who come to see the amazing wildlife of the region. The pretty coastline is further celebrated as a magnet for artists anxious to commit the charm and quiet beauty of this old coastal village to canvas.

Historically, in the 18th and 19th centuries, Thornham's coast was the haunt of smugglers and many a bold venture is said to have been planned in the Old Lifeboat Inn which in those days was a favourite watering hole for the smuggling fraternity. These days, the inn provides a comfortable, atmospheric place for visitors to sample the hospitality of the house whilst enjoying lovely marshland scenery.

Thornham offers a quieter alternative to the larger resort of Hunstanton which is around four miles away. Here you can soak up a calm, quiet atmosphere amongst a wealth of natural beauty. There are secluded sandy beaches, ideal for a gentle swim or for simply lazing watching the too and 'fro of the tide. In the soft pink wide Norfolk skies above the beach you can often witness the mass invasion of hundreds and thousands of migratory birds making for the safe haven of Titchwell Marsh some two miles away. This twice yearly migration usually takes place in Spring and Autumn when the reserve offers the unique opportunity to see ducks, waders, geese and other seabirds in close proximity.

There is much around here to interest the visitor, the nearby inland village of Docking has old village stocks and an ancient lock-up, it also has a historic connections with the Zulu war. George Smith, the son of a local resident went to Natal as a chaplain in 1871, he later played a prominent part in the defence of Rorkes Drift.

For entertainment there are nearby golf courses, theatre, a sea-life centre and plenty of pubs. Yachting and windsurfing are popular, and should you wish to extend your stay there is plenty of accommodation including bed and breakfast, self catering cottages, caravan parks, guest houses and hotels.