Where is Thetford
The old market town of Thetford is located in the South West of Norfolk. Thetford is a civil parish in the Breckland District of Norfolk, towards the east of Thetford Forest. Thetford town lies in between London and Norwich on the A11 road, UK. Thetford is rich in history tracing back to the Iron Age, and the community living in town finds tranquillity and balance in rural life.
Things to do in Thetford
You might wonder if Thetford is just a small town, but you will be amazed to know that Thetford owns so much to explore and enjoy. Thetford is a historical town retaining its historical lineage of centuries, including the remains of a Cluniac priory, a Benedictine nunnery, and Castle Hill (medieval mound). Through excavations, traces of the Anglo-Saxon town of Thetford were revealed, giving evidence for substantial industry, mint, and a town of 4,000 inhabitants. The popular tourist destinations in Thetford are Dad’s Army Museum, Thetford Priory, Thetford Castle, Combat Paintball Ltd, Forest in the Brecks, Go Ape Thetford, Charles Burrell Museum, and Ancient House Museum of Thetford Life.
The list of things to do in Thetford is long, so we will be sharing our top picks for Thetford to make your trip memorable.
Thetford Garden Centre
The Thetford Garden Centre is a must-visit, if you love growing flowers and plants or just enjoy nature. The autonomous Thetford Garden Centre and Cafe was established in 1982 and later evolved into a thriving business. Thetford Garden Centre covers 8 acres of land and provides all you need for your garden under one roof.
Thetford Garden Centre also keeps stock for gifts, clothing, furniture, homeware, and aquatics. The staff and services are helpful and friendly.
Don’t miss the Lime Kiln Kitchen at Thetford Garden Centre which serves the best British food. The place has a vibrant Art Deco interior with a fireplace to add warmth and relaxed vibes.
The menu includes items for breakfast to dinner, fresh brewed coffee, tea, and drinks. Stay there to enjoy a meal or just have a cup of coffee to relax and unwind.
GO ape Thetford
Thetford has a great option for fulfilling your desire for adventure and fun in the form of GO Ape Thetford. This adventure resort in the forest is available for kids and adults depending on its difficulty level. GO Ape Thetford was opened to the public in 2002, and continues to provide the best forest adventures with six adrenaline, bouncy nets, Treetop Adventure, Forest Segways, and a lot more. The Challenge Plus at GO Ape Thetford is the most appealing high ropes adventure for adults and children aged above 10. Plan a trip to GO Ape Thetford with your family and friends for a day filled with adventure.
Combat Paintballing
If you still need more adventure and fun time with family and friends in the forest, Combat Paintballing Thetford got you covered. There are two premium locations for Combat Paintballing in Thetford offering thrilling, safe paintball experience in the ideal surroundings of Thetford Forest. This is also a perfect spot for hosting birthday parties, Corporate events, small and large groups, and stag and hen parties. The Combat Paintballing Thetford venue has film set vibes, along with Forts, Towers, Tanks, Helicopters, and Trenches for best adventure.
Combat Paintballing is also child-friendly and employs experienced adult marshalls and the latest gear.
Places to stay in Thetford for all budgets
An integral part of any trip is choosing a nice cozy place to stay. Thetford has plenty of good options for visitors to stay and enjoy their holidays. While choosing the best hotel is a tricky job we have given our suggestions to make your trip to Thetford memorable. These recommendations are based on the services for different budgets.
Premier Inn, Thetford – Budget
For the budget friendly option Premier Inn, Thetford is an excellent choice.
It is easily accessible and offers clean, comfortable rooms, with excellent services and staff. Premier Inn Thetford offers a prime location to explore nearby spots and some business venues. You can visit the Dad’s Army Museum, and High Lodge Forest nearby, then come back to Premier Inn, Thetford for rest and enjoy food. The facilities at Premier Inn, Thetford include parking, Wi-Fi, bar/ lounge, restaurant, breakfast buffet, children friendly, and much more.
The Bell – mid-range
Located in the heart of Thetford, The Bell welcomes you with warmth and hospitality. The Bell is an ideal choice for a relaxed and rejuvenating experience. The Bell Hotel is known for its great services and proximity to famous attractions and restaurants in Thetford. The Bell Hotel provides room service and free breakfast to make you feel at home. Other facilities include parking, newspaper, TV, Wi-Fi, pet friendly, bar, restaurant, breakfast buffet, banquet room, and meeting rooms.
From The Bell Hotel, you have easy access to Thetford Warren Lodge, Cheers Restaurant Thetford, and The Desert Rat Memorial.
All Saints Hotel
Located within a short drive of approximately 20 minutes from Thetford, and two miles away from Bury St Edmunds, All Saints Hotel provides you with the best modern luxury resort. The luxury hotel and spa offer modern amenities, tranquil countryside views, and the latest facilities. You can also explore the nearby spots like The Abbey Gardens, historical Lavenham, and the University city of Cambridge.
If you want to stay at All Saints Hotel enjoy the 18-hole golf course, yoga, heated pool, gym, spa, sauna, free breakfast, bar, and restaurant. All Saints Hotel also offers the best hotel facilities including modern furnishings, parking, Wi-Fi, TV, tea and coffee makers, complimentary toiletries, comfortable sofas to enjoy golf-course views, and much more.
This is a perfect place to relax and enjoy self-care while pausing the hectic routine.
Center Parcs – (HOLIDAY DESTINATION)
https://www.centerparcs.co.uk/discover-center-parcs/short-family-breaks.html
Located in Elveden Forest Brandon Thetford, Centre Parcs is a place full of options for anyone who wants to spend their holidays. Centre Parcs everything needed for spending quality time with friends and family.
Centre Parcs has a lot of fun and adventure activities for all ages like adrenaline-fuelled adventures, creative activities, indoor, and outdoor pools, and watersports activities. Not just that, Centre Parcs has perfect lodging and food facilities including some of the favourites like Café Rouge, Bella Italia, Huck’s American Bar and Grill, and others.
Entry to Subtropical Swimming Paradise is included in the package and not charged extra, giving access to raft rides, slides, and Wild Water Rapids. Centre Parcs has some dedicated areas for kids like themed play areas with spray fountains, pools, and slides.
If that’s not enough, try getting some self-care and rejuvenation at Aqua Sana Spa in Centre Parcs.
Thetford Restaurants for all budgets
Finding the best restaurants that offer delicious food gets a bit risky, especially if you are visiting Thetford for the first time. Although some people prefer eating from popular food chains, many indulge in chasing local flavour and cuisine.
Here we will share with you the top pick for the best restaurants in Thetford, keeping in mind all budgets.
Chase – Best Budget restaurant
For people on a tight budget, Chase Restaurants Thetford is a good option. It has items from British cuisine on its menu, the food is good quality and it doesn’t break the bank. The environment and services are great, you can come any time of the day to enjoy tasty food or drinks in the Hungry Horse Pub. The overall ambiance is immaculate, and the staff is very professional.
DOUGH&co – Best Mid-range
We all need some comfort food, and what is better than having an Italian wood fired pizza from DOUGH&co Restaurants, Thetford? All ingredients are sourced from Italy and freshly prepared by Italian chefs. Check the menu to order other complementary food like pasta, flatbread, desserts, or drinks. You can dine in, DOUGH&co has a nice seating arrangement, or take your order and enjoy it wherever you go. DOUGH&co also provides delivery services within 7 miles of the restaurant. You can order and enjoy great food in the comfort of your own space.
The Mulberry – Best Fine diner
The place where you can have the best fine dining experience in visiting Thetford is The Mulberry. This restaurant offers intimate seating with a greenhouse, and the food served here is modern British cuisine with a European style.
Here you will find vegan and gluten-free options if you follow any strict diet. The Mulberry Thetford is known for their exceptional food, atmosphere, value for money, and best services.
The best part of The Mulberry is its owner Karen, who is a great host and all the staff are welcoming.
Thetford Forest best part – BONUS INFO
This is a hidden gem in Thetford, covering an area of 18,730 hectares. Thetford Forest is England’s largest man-made forest on lowland. Thetford Forest is a natural resort with a lot of fun and adventure activities for people of all ages like trails, archery, picnic areas, & various activities for youngsters. The best part is Lynford Lake, a serene place to relax on holidays. Lynford Arboretum is an ideal place to visit during holidays, immerse yourself in nature, spot birds, and flowers, and enjoy walks in the wild with your dog.
Check out all our other guides for things to do in Norfolk
