Downham Market
is one of Norfolk’s oldest market towns, the history of which
can be traced back to Saxon times. Charles I went to Downham following
the Battle of Naseby and the inventor George Manby went to school
in the town.
The town has a range of individual shops and a bustling market
that is held on Fridays and Saturdays. There are many attractive
houses and buildings and an unusual black and white clock.
Denver windmill is a recently restored mill. Visitors can climb
to the top of the mill on a guided tour and watch the flour being
milled.
Collectors World is a fascinating place with very contrasting memorabilia
from Armstrong Siddeley cars to a room that is dedicated to the
late Dame Barbara Cartland.
David Bellamy, Britain’s favourite botanist, once described
the nearby Fens as ‘a natural man-scape’. The land was
covered by water until the huge task of draining the area was undertaken.
It is now some of the most fertile farmland in Europe.
It is an ideal place for walking or cycling as the area is so flat
and the peaceful waterways are excellent for boating and fishing.
Nearby Welney is the famous Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust nature
reserve, which is popular with birdwatchers from far afield. In
November the Festival of Swans is held and visitors can observe
the over-wintering swans.
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