Welcome to one of the most handsome small towns in the country

Great British Life: 1940s weekend celebrations (photo: Sonya Duncan)1940s weekend celebrations (photo: Sonya Duncan) (Image: Archant Norfolk Photographic © 2016)

The market town of Holt lies in the north of the county and, with Georgian architecture, a pretty high street and a heritage steam train, has a unique charm. Although it has Roman roots, the property in Holt is mostly Georgian with Victorian homes in the back lanes, streets and yards thanks to a great fire of 1708, which burned the wooden buildings and destroyed the church.

The 18th century restoration established Holt as one of the finest Georgian towns in Norfolk. The property market offers an eclectic mix, ranging from grand period estates to more affordable family homes, with new-build opportunities springing up on the fringes of the town.

The shopping experience in Holt is a joy. Filled with independent boutiques, galleries, bakeries and pubs, there are plenty of places which tug at the purse-strings.

Bakers and Larners of Holt is at the heart of the town, with a popular independent department store with a long and rich history. Local points of interest also include Voewood, a remarkable arts and crafts movement historic property.

Another attraction is the North Norfolk Railway, known as the Poppy Line, which starts in Sheringham and terminates in Holt.

The town is only a few miles from the beautiful north Norfolk coastline, with unspoiled beaches, sand dunes and marshes. Right on the doorstep Holt Country Park runs fun events throughout the year and its woodland is fabulous for explorers of all ages. The park has an attractive woodland and heathland area, picnic places, nature trails and an adventure playground.

Gresham’s school has been a fixture in the town since 1555 and boasts notable alumni including poets WH Auden and Stephen Spender, England rugby players Ben and Tom Youngs and actor Olivia Colman.

Holt becomes a popular destination for festival-goers in July when the town becomes home to street performers, musicians, artists and comedians, broadcasters and public figures.