Just to the south of Downham Market in rural West Norfolk is the little village of Hilgay. The village is in the fens, and partly because of this, partly because of the architecture, has a feeling more akin to a rural Midlands village than a Norfolk one. The area is noted for its good fishing, sitting as it is on the peaceful river Wissey, with fenland drainage dykes nearby, and the lakes at Dents Farm. It is the fish in the area that attract the birds to Hilgay Heronry, a copse designated a site of special scientific interest for the 40 or so heron nests there. By the river is The Crosskeys, a pretty former coaching inn built in the 17th century. Just outside the village is All Saints church, well worth the walk. Here is a quaint and rather rustic lychgate somewhat at odds with the squat and solid church with its buttressed late-18th century tower housing eight bells. The church was restored in the 1860s, and within houses a memorial to Hilgay’s most famous son, Captain Manby, inventor of a method of rescuing sailors from ships that had run aground.
Places to Stay near Hilgay
Castle Hotel (2.82 miles)
Swan at Caves Farm Barns (5.54 miles)
Click here to book this cottage with Hoseasons
In the unique atmosphere of the Fens' landscape of huge skies, spectacular sunsets and fishing rivers, this cluster of quality barn conversions is the perfect place to ... More
Timbers Hotel (6.11 miles)
Set in rolling countryside Timbers is a traditionally converted barn complex offering a warm and friendly welcome. We serve traditional food all day, every day from 12pm either in the ... More
Magdalen House (7.14 miles)
Magdalen House is a Georgian property built in 1829 and set in the heart of peaceful countryside in West Norfolk. The old part of the house retains many original features from what were once two ... More | visit website
The Gate House (7.48 miles)
Five Bells Hotel (7.50 miles)
A traditional village property, this small, friendly inn is situated in the heart of Upwell, next to St. Peters church and opposite the village hall. Providing comfortable accommodation with homemade food ... More
Treelea (10.79 miles)
We are a small family run business offering accomodation comprising of B&B or rooms only. We are set in 2.5 acres overlooking fields. We have an ornamental carp lake with ... More
Elme Hall Hotel (10.94 miles)
Crown Hotel (11.78 miles)
Ramada Kings Lynn (11.86 miles)
The Ramada King's Lynn is located in the historic port and market town of Kings Lynn, with easy access to Sandringham. We are 15 mins from the Hunstanton Snettisham kids park ... More
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