We pay a visit to the charming town, which is in easy reach of both Norwich and the north Norfolk coast
The pace of life
Aylsham is one of just a handful of Cittaslow towns in the UK.
Italian for slow city, it’s a movement which emerged in the 1990s, encouraging people to embrace a more mindful, less frenetic pace of life, which chimes with the Norfolk motto slow you down.
As part of that, priorities are caring for the environment, promoting a healthy lifestyle and celebrating the unique character of the local area and its producers and businesses.
The centrepiece is Aylsham Food Festival.
Traditionally held the first weekend in October, highlights include produce markets showcasing the area’s bounty and the Sunday morning Big Slow Brunch, where diners are positively encouraged to take time out and savour a delicious breakfast.
Nearby Blickling Estate, with its much-photographed Jacobean hall and expansive gardens, is the perfect spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
The house was home to the Boleyn family from 1499 to 1505 and it is believed that Anne Boleyn's ghost still roams the corridors.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the house, stroll through the formal gardens, or embark on woodland walks. The estate also hosts events throughout the year, including the popular Classic Ibiza concert, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in August.
The fascinating RAF Oulton Museum tells the story of life on the estate during the Second World War, there's a brilliant secondhand bookshop and don’t miss the beautiful 14th century church of St Michael and All Angels. And, as this is a National Trust property, lots of tempting cake and scones are on offer.
Traditionally held on the August Bank Holiday Monday, the Aylsham Show is a highlight for locals and visitors alike. The 2025 show is set for August 25 and promises a day filled with livestock displays, equestrian events, local produce stalls, and family-friendly entertainment. It's a fantastic way to experience the community spirit of Aylsham and get a true taste of rural Norfolk life.
Rich history
The town has a centuries-long association with the wool and textile trade, the legacy of which are the ornate 18th century houses surrounding the Market Place.
Located in the town's former fire station, Aylsham Heritage Centre showcases the area's rich history through exhibits on local industries, archaeology, and notable figures. It’s a small but informative stop for those interested in delving deeper into Aylsham’s past.
Aylsham Market
Every Monday and Friday, the Market Place hosts local vendors, plus Aylsham Food and Craft Market is held on the first Saturday of the month. Soak in the atmosphere and support small businesses.
The Bure Valley Path
Lace up your walking boots, because there's some lovely countryside to explore.
The Bure Valley Path is a nine-mile route connecting Aylsham to Wroxham, perfect for walking and cycling enthusiasts. The path meanders through picturesque countryside, and is a tranquil way to experience Norfolk's natural beauty. Because it's flat, it's great for cycling too. The Bure Valley Railway line runs alongside, so you could always let a narrow gauge steam train take the strain if you’d prefer.
More wonderful walking
The Weaver’s Way trail – named for the area’s rich textile history – follows a disused railway line from Aylsham to North Walsham.
And because it’s off road, it’s great for cyclists and horse riders too.
In recent years Aylsham has become one of Norfolk's foodie hotspots.
A mainstay for centuries, presiding over the Market Place, the Grade II listed Black Boys Hotel’s illustrious former guests reputedly include Daniel Defoe, Horatio Nelson and Princess Victoria.
Its history can be traced back to the 1470s and it was turned into an inn in the 1650s – although it has also been used as a magistrates court.
And within the Blickling Estate, former coaching inn the Bucks Arms has also been welcoming guests since the 17th century.
The residents of Aylsham are lucky enough to have a branch of the award-winning Norfolk bakery Bread Source right on their doorstep, in the Market Place. And at Victorian-inspired Biddy's Kitchen there are more than 50 blends of tea to choose from as well as lots of tempting sweet and savoury treats from their in-house bakery.
Other popular spots include The Blind Pig, Stamp Pizza (located, as you might guess, in the town's former post office) M's of Aylsham cocktail bar and the Porters Arms micropub.
From boutiques to chocolatiers and much more, Aylsham has lots of lovely shops to explore in between coffee and cake stops.
The Book Hive is a must for book lovers of all ages. As well as its impeccably curated collection of everything from contemporary fiction to children’s literature and local history titles, it hosts author talks, book signings and reading groups. And owned by award-winning illustrator Kate Read, One Fox sells gorgeous gifts, books, toys, cards and more.
Animal magic
Nestled in idyllic countryside, the Aylsham outpost of the equine charity Redwings is a family favourite. It is home to more than 70 residents including real-life Black Beauty Maya, donkey duo Wiggins and Wacko, and Redwings’ notorious herd of Shetlands, who are affectionately known as The Gangsters.
