
Things to do in Thornham, North Norfolk
Holiday Cottages in Thornham, North Norfolk
Thornham, right in the heart of the North Norfolk coast, has become a real hotspot for holidays in recent years — and if you visit, you’ll quickly see why. Choosing from our Norfolk holiday cottages in Thornham puts you in the perfect position to enjoy everything this vibrant coastal village has to offer.
Nature & Birdwatching Near Thornham
If birdwatching is your thing, staying in a holiday cottage on the North Norfolk coast means you’re just a couple of minutes from the famous RSPB Titchwell Marsh reserve. A visit here can easily fill a day, with guided walks led by experienced birders offering a fantastic way to make the most of your time. There’s also an excellent café, ideal for a relaxed lunch after exploring the reserve.

Shopping, Food & Local Favourites
Thornham is extremely well served with amenities, making it a wonderful base for guests staying in Norfolk holiday cottages. The much-loved Thornham Deli is a destination in its own right and perfect for breakfast or lunch. Alongside the deli is a stylish lifestyle shop stocking a wide range of homewares and fashion, making it a must-visit during your stay in a holiday cottage in Thornham.
The deli also offers excellent picnic food, and children can enjoy the brilliant playground next door while you eat and browse.
Drove Orchards & Nearby Attractions
Just around the corner from the deli is Drove Orchards, a fantastic spot for shopping and dining near Thornham. Here you’ll find several popular places, including:
• Eric’s Fish and Chips
• Eric’s Pizzeria, set in the iconic yurt
• Gurney’s Fish Shop, a Norfolk institution
• Mimi’s Ice Cream Parlour
• Cider Barn Antiques
• Joyful Living, one of the prettiest lifestyle shops you’ll ever visit
The farm shop at Drove Orchards sells excellent local produce, including apple juice made from apples grown on site. During the autumn months, visitors can even enjoy pick-your-own apples.
Pubs & Restaurants in Thornham
The Lifeboat Inn, a historic smuggling inn full of character and atmosphere, is one of our favourite places to eat in Thornham and a real highlight when staying in Norfolk holiday cottages by the coast. For the full experience, ask for a table in the bar.
For something extra special, The Orange Tree in Thornham is an award-winning restaurant that has long been a classic along the North Norfolk coast, consistently serving imaginative dishes using local ingredients — perfect for celebrations or special occasions during your stay.
Thornham Beach
The beach at Thornham is reached via a walk along the sea defences, taking around 25 minutes, but you’ll be rewarded with one of the most peaceful and unspoilt beaches on the Norfolk coast. Expect white sand backed by pine trees and rolling dunes — well worth the walk from your Thornham holiday cottage.
Stay in a Holiday Cottage in Thornham
With everything right on your doorstep, Thornham is the perfect village for a holiday on the Norfolk coast. From nature and food to beaches and boutique shopping, it’s easy to see why so many guests return year after year to Norfolk holiday cottages.
Explore our holiday cottages in Thornham, Norfolk, and start planning your perfect coastal escape.