The little village of Thursford, with a population of just 224 at the last census, was put on the map because of one man’s hobby that turned into a major museum collection. George Cushing was to say the least a steam enthusiast. When traction engines and steam-drive machinery of every sort was being sent for scrap, Cushing bought up what he could, and restored it to running order. His fascination was not just for steam-rollers and threshing machinery, but also for fairground attractions. His collection has now become a major attraction, with highlights including a 2’ gauge railway, a marvellous old gondola merry-go-round, and a truly mighty Wurlitzer. The childhood delight of the place doesn’t stop with the steam machinery. Thursford has built a reputation for its Christmas variety spectaculars, booked out for months in advance, drawing coach-loads from all over Britain. Thursford is nicely situated as a base for touring the many other attractions in the area. The Georgian town of Holt is just five or six miles up the A148. Fakenham with its races is three miles in the other direction. The pilgrimage destination of Walsingham is a ten minute drive via pretty country lanes. As well as the religious sites there, Walsingham has a light railway link to Wells-next-the-Sea, so kids can be bribed to take in a bit of history in exchange for a ride on the train. The beach to the west of Wells, leading round to Holkham, is great for an old-fashioned seaside day out too. Thursford is a pretty village in its own right, St Andrew’s church there having some lovely Victorian stained glass worth a quick detour. The countryside around the village is gently beautiful, and there are lots of other villages well away from the main routes that repay a visit.
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Places to Stay near Thursford
Old Bakehouse Guesthouse (3.05 miles)
Set in the heart of the historical village of Little Walsingham, The Old Bakehouse offers three spacious guest rooms, all with en-suite facilities. Colour TV and Tea and coffee making facilities are available in each ... More | visit website
Black Lion Hotel (3.05 miles)
St Hilary's House (3.19 miles)
Rowans Cottage (4.40 miles)
A delightful detached flint 17th century beamed cottage, in lovely situated in the heart of the village of Langham. Home of the famous Langham glass. 1 1/2 miles from Blakeney Quay and coast. Ideal for ... More | visit website
Lower Appartment Langham Hall (4.49 miles)
Langham is just one mile from the beauties of the North Norfolk Coast. Langham Hall appartments have been recently renovated and are situated in the heart of the village in ... More
Boar Inn (4.60 miles)
Great Ryburgh is in the beautiful English county of Norfolk within easy reach of the North Norfolk coast and only 2 miles from Fakenham Race course and only 4 miles ... More
Crown Hotel (4.84 miles)
Check availability and book this hotel online with Active Hotels
Located in the heart of the town and close to local amenities, cinema, the Aldiss superstore and Fakenham National Hunt Race Course the Crown Hotel ... More
Wensum Lodge Hotel (4.93 miles)
'The Country Hotel on The Edge of Town.' Situated 3 mins walk from town centre and 10 mins from race course. Enjoy the warmth of our family run hotel, with a ... More
Sculthorpe Mill (5.97 miles)
A charming 18th century mill set in beautiful gardens with six newly refurbished en suite guest rooms. A non smoking restaurant and cosy bar areas offer a bar or a la ... More
Morston Hall (5.98 miles)
We don't pretend what we offer is unique. However, we know our fusion of hotel, restaurant and surroundings is a rare combination anywhere in the British Isles. Morston Hall is owned and run by Tracy ... More
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