Fakenham

Situated on the River Wensum, Fakenham is a Norfolk market town 25 miles from Norwich, around 19 miles from King's Lynn and 19 miles from Cromer. It is not clear when Fakenham had its first settlement, but the discovery of flint tools and weapons suggest the area was inhabited during Neolithic time. There is also evidence of a settlement in Roman times on Beacon Hill. Fakenham Racecourse is the only National Hunt Racecourse in Norfolk and had its first meeting in 1905, attracting 37 runners. Just one meeting per year was held on Easter Monday, with racing continuing each year except for enforced breaks during war years. Racing fixtures have increased over the years and Fakenham racecourse continues to draw in the crowds.