Holt is a twinkly, higgledy-piggledy sort of place that’s a joy to explore, where you’ll discover vintage and antique shops, boutiques, art galleries, bookshops and tea rooms tucked away in its quaint yards. Each year I love to have an autumn weekend break in the town and make a start on my Christmas shopping.
Holt’s emblem is the owl. Legend has it that some local men caught a troublesome owl and put it in the town pound for safekeeping – but the plucky bird somehow managed to escape.
Each July the town is transformed into an artistic playground for one of the region’s biggest arts festivals, which attracts some of the biggest names in TV, comedy, music and more.
Where to stay
Characterful Byfords is right at the heart of things. The self-styled ‘posh’ B&B (think Vi Spring beds, Egyptian cotton sheets and luxury cosmetics) has 16 individually designed rooms, plus a self-catering apartment.
But it’s much more than just a place to rest your weary head – there's a café serving hearty breakfasts, brunches and lunches through to decadent afternoon teas and dinners. And if you’re planning a picnic, you can stock up at the takeaway.
Part of the Chestnut Group of pubs with rooms and packed with traditional charm, The Feathers, is a fab place to stay - they also have The Lawns Rooms just down the road.
And the new Shirehall Apartments is a trio of luxury self-catering apartments, with interiors designed by Aviva Leigh of Make Holt.
Where to shop
If you love a bit of retail therapy then Holt is definitely the right destination – there's little wonder that members of the Royal family have spotted been doing their Christmas shopping in the town.
There's a gorgeous, eclectic mix of indies, such as the bijou boutique Anna, Chapel Yard Organics (try the teas by Dr Sally's Botanicals), Holt Bookshop and the Red Dot Gallery.
Norfolk Natural Living's Perfumery and Wellbeing pharmacy is an olfactory delight and the neighbouring Utility Store has a gorgeously curated range of products for the home.
For epicurean treats, a trip to Bakers and Larners food hall should be top of the list – it’s famed as Norfolk’s answer to Fortnum and Mason.
If you love vintage, then you’ll be in heaven here as there are so many antiques shops to rummage in – Holt Antiques and Interiors Centre has collectables of all kinds.
And for music lovers, a crate digging session at Holt Vinyl Vault is a must.
Holt Sunday Market features an eclectic mix of makers showcasing their wares, plus street food traders and buskers. It's held on the first Sunday of the month from April to December.
Where to eat
Run by former Morston Hall head chef Greg Anderson and his partner, Rebecca Williams, intimate Michelin starred restaurant with rooms Meadowsweet is one of Norfolk’s hottest tables. Dishes are dictated by the best responsibly sourced ingredients available. Currently you'll find combinations such as rabbit and amarena cherry and wild turbot and vin jaune on the menu.
With cafes and bakeries in abundance, Holt could possibly be the coffee and cake capital of Norfolk. Established in 1929, Owl Tea Rooms is believed to be the county's oldest tearoom. It certainly has an incredible array of bakes on offer - from spiced apple pie and treacle tart to gooey chocolate brownies. If you want to try traditional Norfolk shortbread, then this is the place.
Run by Tom Brady, Star Plain Stores specialises in his three favourite things in life - cheese, coffee and wine. And stop off at Eric's Fish and Chips to sample his famous Delia-endorsed deep fried jam sandwich.
If you’re a history buff, the Holt Owl Trail brings the town's past to life. A circular walk around town, there are 24 plaques on the ground, and each one reveals the history of the buildings, monuments, streets and clocks.
If you love walking, then Holt Country Park is in easy reach.
Or you could take a trip back in time on the North Norfolk Railway, which runs steam trains between Holt and Sheringham and boasts some spectacular views.
Which places should we visit next? Email emma.lee@newsquest.co.uk and tell us about your favourites.
