Holme next the Sea

Holme next the Sea is a small village at the extreme north west corner of Norfolk, where the Wash meets the North Sea. There is not a lot here, except a large golden sandy beach, a few cottages, village church and a pub. But this is the part of the appeal of Holme next the Sea, particularly if you are looking for a fun family day at the seaside. The village is the start of long distance footpaths along the North Norfolk Coast and inland to Thetford (an old Roman Road).

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We start our tour of Holme next the Sea at the beach, which is an ideal place for a family day out. There is plenty of golden sand which is a great place in summer to throw down your towel and get sunbathing or building sand castles. On cooler days, you may like to take advantage of the footpaths that exist in the area area and go for a walk. Holme next the Sea is starting point of 2 long distance footpaths - the North Norfolk Coast path to Cromer (44 miles) and the Peddars Way to Knettishall Heath (46 miles). Adjacent to the beach is the northern edge of the Hunstanton golf course and a convenient car-park, with a stall selling refreshments in season.

Careful observations of the beach at low tide might reveal a series of black discs. These are the fossilised remains of a prehistoric forest that once existed here and extended right out into what is now the North Sea. In 1998 winter storms swept away some of the sand, revealing a unique Bronze Age monument that was quickly nicknamed "Seahenge". The trunk of an oak tree had been turned upside down, and planted firmly into the ground. This central column was surrounded by a ring of 55 other oak stumps, forming a mysterious display with no obvious purpose. After it was removed for analysis, scientists were able to accurately track the date of construction. It was built in 2050BC, at around the same time as Stonehenge. After preservation at the Mary Rose Trust in Portsmouth, Seahenge has now returned to Norfolk and is on display at the Lynn Museum in King’s Lynn.

Moving into the village itself, you will find plenty of cottages covered in flowers, set out along pretty lanes - its the classic image of an unspoilt English country village. The buildings date from various periods and are typically built of local flint or Norfolk red brick, with some converted as holiday homes.

The parish church of St Mary's is located at the east end of the village. The church dates back to the 15th century. Henry Nottingham was responsible for building the tower and the original chancel. The church building has been adapted and modified several times since then, with extensive works undertaken in 1777 and the 1880's. In the church itself, the major point of most interest is the Nottingham Brass - thought to be an important London made brass - showing Henry Nottingham alongside his wife. You can find the brass on the south side of the chancel arch.

Holme next the Sea summary of what to SEE and DO