Living in Swaffham

Swaffham is a picturesque market town in West Norfolk. The town has a warm welcome for all newcomers with plenty of attractive properties on the market from delightful character cottages to new build houses.

At the heart of the town is the marketplace, surrounded by its fine Georgian buildings. There’s a market every Saturday which brings a lovely atmosphere to the town. You’ll find there is more than enough to get involved locally with a golf club, rugby club, football club and cafes in abundance.

Swaffham is the crossing point for two of Norfolk’s main road routes connecting the unspoilt countryside and picturesque coast, perfect for exploring all that Norfolk has to offer.

Estate Agents In Swaffham


About Swaffham

Estate Agents In Swaffham


Swaffham is an historic market town situated within the Breckland area of Norfolk. The town grew to prominence during medieval times based on local agriculture. During the 14th and 15th centuries, the town become home to a flourishing sheep and wool trade, hence why it has its marketplace with the striking Butter Cross.

Unquestionably, Swaffham is possibly most known for its markets. It’s been held in the middle of the town for many years and is still prominent and busy on Saturdays. Expect to find an array of different stalls from the local fish produce, fruit and veg to everyday wares and old trinkets

Three interesting facts about Swaffham

  • The BBC filmed much of the “Kingdom” series in Swaffham which starred Stephen Fry
  • Until 1968, Swaffham was served by its railway station on the Great Eastern Railway Line.
  • There is the legendary tale of pedlar of Swaffham, the stories tell that after receiving a message in a dream, a man called John Chapman is said to have found two pots of gold buried under a tree in his garden. He then funded the north side of the Swaffham Parish church.


Local amenities

As well as sustaining a traditional marketplace, local businesses have flourished in the town. A short walk through the town and you’ll soon discover its abundance of eateries. Take your pick from quaint cafes such as The Market Cross Café to family friendly pubs like The White Hart as well as the well-known George Hotel and Stratton’s Hotel.

When it comes to finding your local supermarket, Swaffham does not fall short. With a Tesco’s, Asda and Waitrose, there’s plenty too choose from! Not to forget there are great local producers in the area too! On Fridays, the Assembly rooms enjoys an indoor market where a number of vendors offer a selection of handmade cakes, jams and pickles, plus smaller findings like vintage jewellery.

Walks, country lanes, and cycling can be found in Castle Acre, a 10-minute drive away. The Ostrich pub in Castle Acre serves excellent food as does The Dabbling Duck in nearby Great Massingham. West-are is a 15 minute drive away, where you can find a local brewery, West Acre Theatre, riverside walks and the beautiful West Acre Gardens.

Swaffham offers an ideal base from which to explore the Brecks. This wonderful area spans 393 sq miles across Suffolk and Norfolk, set in the heart of East of England. Skies are often blue as a result of being one of the driest parts of Britain. Explore its forests boasting miles of tranquil trackways and paths. Additionally, Holkham and Wells-next-to-the-sea are each 35 minutes away.



Swaffham Schools

The town and surrounding villages have a good range of schools. The town itself is home to three nurseries, four primary schools and three secondary schools inclusive of one private school.

Moreover, many surrounding villages boast their own nurseries and primary schools which is ideal for those moving into surrounding villages.



Transport Links

Without a doubt, Swaffham provide excellent transport links. A 20-minute drive away will take you to Downham Market train station, with trains reaching London’s Kings Cross in 95 minutes precisely. Moreover, the station provides direct links to Stansted Airport, Cambridge, and Ely. Further rail options are in Brandon, a 2-minute drive away. The fine city of Norwich can be reached by bus from Swaffham with services running throughout the day.

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