Kings Lynn in England is a charming town with a rich history and plenty of things to do.
From exploring the ancient castle to relaxing in the King’s Gardens, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, I’ll be taking you through 15 of the best things to do in Kings Lynn.
From catching a show at the Kings Lynn Arts Centre to going on a guided tour of the town, you’ll be sure to find something that takes your fancy.
So, let’s get started!
Visit the Ancient Castle
Immerse yourself in the history of King’s Lynn and visit the ancient castle for a chance to explore a piece of England’s past!
Heading to the castle is a must for anyone looking to explore the culture and history of the area. The castle is thought to have been built in the late 11th century, and it was once the main stronghold of the port of King’s Lynn.
The castle has been well preserved and is one of the best-preserved examples of Norman architecture in England. It is also home to a museum and art gallery, which feature a range of artifacts and displays from the area.
The castle is open to the public, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the castle. There is also a café on the grounds, so visitors can take a break and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while taking in the history of the castle.
See the Stunning Architecture of the Town Hall
Step into the glorious history of the Town Hall in Kings Lynn and marvel at its stunning architecture. Built in 1746, the Town Hall has been in continuous use for the past 270 years.
The exterior of the building is a mix of brick and stone, with the pediment of the clock tower featuring a stunning carving of Britannia surrounded by dolphins. The Town Hall also features a large bell, weighing nearly half a ton, which is still rung to commemorate special occasions.
Inside the Town Hall, visitors can explore the grand council chamber, which features a stunning domed ceiling and ornate woodwork. The walls of the chamber are adorned with paintings and portraits of the town’s mayors, while the floor is made of black and white marble in a checkerboard pattern.
The Town Hall also features a grand staircase, which is lined with stained glass windows, making it the perfect backdrop for a photo.
The Town Hall is a must-see for any visitor to Kings Lynn, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich history and beautiful architecture.
Relax in the King’s Gardens
Take a stroll through the King’s Gardens and relax amidst lush greenery. The King’s Gardens is a peaceful haven for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
With winding paths and plenty of benches, it’s easy to find a quiet spot to just sit and enjoy the beauty of the area. The gardens are filled with plenty of trees and plants, providing a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of shade.
There’s also a variety of flowers, from roses to daffodils, that bring the gardens to life. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the gardens, admiring the stunning beauty of each individual flower, or take a break and sit on one of the many benches scattered throughout the gardens.
The King’s Gardens also offer a variety of activities for visitors. There’s a pond with plenty of fish, perfect for fishing, and a playground for kids. There are also plenty of walking paths that meander through the gardens, providing visitors with a chance to explore and discover the hidden gems of the area.
During the summer, the gardens host a variety of events, from concerts to outdoor theatre performances, providing even more opportunities for visitors to enjoy their time in the gardens. King’s Gardens is a fantastic place for visitors to enjoy some peace and relaxation, surrounded by nature and beauty.
Take a Riverside Stroll Along the Ouse
Stroll along the banks of the Ouse and take in the scenic views of King’s Lynn, England. With its tranquil, winding waters, and picturesque backdrop of lush greenery, a leisurely walk along the Ouse is one of the best ways to explore the area.
Enjoy the sight of historic boats, the smell of nature, and the sound of birds chirping in the trees. The river provides visitors with plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty of the area, with its various pathways and bridges, that each offer unique perspectives of the town.
From the Lynn Bridge and the South Gate Bridge to the Albert Bridge, each bridge offers a different view of the river and the town’s architecture. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a few of the local wildlife, such as swans, ducks, or herons.
No matter the time of day, there’s always something to see and enjoy along the Ouse. Pack a lunch and make a day of it, or simply take a leisurely stroll and soak in the beauty of the area.
Explore the Town’s Long and Rich History
Immerse yourself in the long and rich history of King’s Lynn and explore the town’s centuries-old architecture, art, and culture.
From the medieval town walls to the unique Georgian architecture, there is much to discover in this charming English town.
Make sure to visit the town’s majestic churches, including St. Margaret’s Church, which dates back to the 13th century and is the oldest building in King’s Lynn.
Admire the fascinating murals, stained glass windows, and the intricate carvings that make this church so special.
Stop by the nearby Museum of King’s Lynn to explore the history of the town and its people.
Spend time admiring the artifacts, such as the famous local ‘Lynn Town Chest’, which dates back to the 15th century.
Learn about the town’s maritime legacy, its important role in the wool and coal trades, and the stories of its famous residents.
After a day of exploration, take some time to relax and enjoy the beauty of King’s Lynn.
Enjoy a Performance at the Alive Corn Exchange
Head to the Alive Corn Exchange for a night of entertainment and experience King’s Lynn’s vibrant performing arts scene. The Alive Corn Exchange is a listed building in the heart of King’s Lynn and has been entertaining the local community since the 19th century. It hosts a wide range of performances from comedy, music, and theatre to dance, special events, and even pantomimes.
From international touring acts to local talent, there’s something for everyone. The Alive Corn Exchange offers a range of seating options, from traditional theatre seating to cabaret-style tables, so you can enjoy a show in comfort. The venue also has two bars featuring local ales, wines, and spirits, plus pre-show meals available in the restaurant.
With regular comedy, music, and theatre nights, there’s always something to enjoy at the Alive Corn Exchange. So why not come along and experience King’s Lynn’s rich performing arts scene.
Experience Local Shopping and Markets
Shop ’til you drop in King’s Lynn, where there’s something for everyone to enjoy! From traditional markets to boutique stores, there’s something for shoppers of all ages and tastes.
Located in the heart of the town, the historic Saturday Market is a great place to pick up fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and delicious treats.
On Tuesdays, head to the Tuesday Market and explore the bustling street stalls, where you can find everything from antiques to homewares.
For those looking for something unique, there are plenty of independent stores and boutiques in King’s Lynn, offering a wide variety of items from vintage clothing to handmade jewellery.
For a truly special shopping experience, don’t miss the monthly Open-Air Market. Held on the second Sunday of the month in the cobbled streets of the historic King’s Lynn, the market features over 100 stalls selling a range of items from clothing to plants to vintage furniture.
Whether you’re looking for a bargain or a special something, the Open-Air Market is sure to have something for everyone. So come on down and explore the wonderful world of shopping in King’s Lynn!
Visit the Historic Churches and Chapels
Experience the rich history of King’s Lynn by visiting its many historic churches and chapels.
St. Margaret’s Church, located in the centre of the city, is a Grade I listed building that dates back to the 1300s. The church is known for its iconic medieval spire, which towers above the town. Inside the church, you can find a range of medieval monuments, including a memorial to the Wodehouse family, a wealthy local family.
Other churches worth visiting include St. Nicholas Chapel, a Grade II* listed building that was built in the 15th century, and St. George’s Guildhall, which dates back to the 13th century.
In addition to these churches, you should also visit the Greyfriars Tower, which is the only remaining part of the Franciscan Friary that was established in 1230. The tower is located in King Street and offers a great view of the town.
There are many other historic churches and chapels located in the area, such as St. Michael’s Church, St. Mary’s Church, and St. John’s Church. No matter which one you choose to visit, you’ll get to experience a bit of the town’s rich history and culture.
Take a Boat Trip on the River Great Ouse
Take a scenic boat trip on the River Great Ouse and marvel at the stunning beauty of King’s Lynn.
Boats of all sizes, from small rowing boats to large yachts, cruise the river, providing the perfect opportunity to take in the sights.
The River Great Ouse meanders through the charming town of King’s Lynn, giving visitors a taste of the area’s rich history and natural beauty.
Whether you choose to take a relaxing trip along the river or want to go on a fishing expedition, you’ll be delighted by the array of wildlife that call the river home.
From swans and ducks to cormorants and kingfishers, you’re sure to see a variety of species along the way.
The banks of the river are lined with lush vegetation, providing a peaceful setting to take in the views.
After your boat trip, there are plenty of pubs and restaurants to explore, making the River Great Ouse a great destination for a day out.
Step Back in Time at Sandringham Estate
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Sandringham Estate and get a glimpse of history like no other. Located in the west of Norfolk, Sandringham Estate was the much-loved private residence of Queen Victoria and her descendants.
This magnificent estate, surrounded by sprawling gardens and a beautiful lake, offers visitors a unique insight into the royal family’s history and lifestyle. Take a stroll around the grounds and admire the wonderful architecture of the grand house and surrounding buildings.
You can also visit the museum, which is full of artifacts and memorabilia from the royal family’s past. Spend time discovering the royal family’s collection of paintings, porcelain, and furniture, all of which are beautifully displayed.
If you’re lucky, you may even get to see a royal family member on the grounds or at the church. Visiting Sandringham Estate is a must-do for anyone wanting to connect with history in a unique and memorable way.
Go Birdwatching at Snettisham RSPB Reserve
Gain a unique perspective of the English countryside as you explore Snettisham RSPB Reserve and its abundant birdlife.
Snettisham is a nature reserve located on the north coast of Norfolk, England, offering breathtaking views of the North Sea and the Wash estuary.
The reserve is home to a wide variety of birds, including marsh harriers, lapwings, and avocets.
Bring your binoculars and watch for rare species, such as the Caspian tern, common tern, and little tern.
You can also take a guided boat tour to observe the resident birds from the water.
The reserve is open all year round, with the best birding conditions occurring between May and August.
In addition to its plentiful birdlife, Snettisham is also home to several rare species of plants, including marsh marigolds, marsh thistles, and marsh orchids.
Take your time to explore the reserve and discover the unique wildlife that inhabits this area of England.
Visit the Interesting Museums and Art Galleries
Spend a day exploring the fascinating museums and art galleries of King’s Lynn, England and get lost in the beauty of its cultural heritage.
With its rich history, King’s Lynn offers a wide variety of interesting museums and galleries that are worth a visit.
The True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum is a unique museum that showcases the history of fishing in the area, from its traditional roots to its modern form.
The King’s Lynn Arts centre is another great destination where you can explore contemporary art and sculpture from around the world.
The Lynn Museum has a varied collection of artifacts from local and international sources, including an impressive display of local pottery and a selection of toys from the Victorian era.
You can also visit the Wisbech and Fenland Museum to learn about the area’s agricultural history.
Finally, the Fermoy Gallery is a great place to admire the artwork of local and international artists.
Whether you’re looking to learn about the area’s history or find a unique piece of art, King’s Lynn has a museum or gallery to suit your needs.
Catch a Show at the Kings Lynn Arts Centre
After exploring the museums and galleries in Kings Lynn, why not catch a show at the Kings Lynn Arts Centre?
Located in the centre of the town, this venue is well-known for hosting a wide variety of events, performances, and exhibitions.
From theatre to art, live music to comedy, the Kings Lynn Arts Centre has something to offer everyone.
When you arrive at the centre, you’ll be welcomed by a friendly staff that will help you find the perfect show for you.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly show or a night of entertainment, you’ll find something to suit your needs.
In addition to the variety of shows, the Arts Centre also offers workshops and classes throughout the year, allowing you to learn something new and expand your skills.
From pottery to painting, theatre to photography, there’s something for everyone.
With a range of ticket prices, you’re sure to find an event that fits your budget.
So why not head to the Kings Lynn Arts Centre and enjoy a show?
Go on a Guided Tour of the Town
Take a break from museum-hopping and join a guided tour of Kings Lynn to get an insider’s look into the town. Guided tours of Kings Lynn are a fantastic way to learn more about the town’s history, culture, and architecture.
The tours are led by knowledgeable local guides who have a deep appreciation for the town. During the tour, you’ll get to visit some of the town’s most iconic landmarks, such as the old Town Hall, St Margaret’s Church, and the Saturday Market Place.
You’ll also get to explore the less noticed parts of the town, such as the hidden alleyways and cobbled streets. You’ll also get to hear stories and anecdotes from the tour guide, giving you a unique insight into the town.
The tour usually lasts around two hours, but you can also book private tours that are tailored to your interests.
Enjoy the Local Cuisine and Pubs
Sample Answer: Enjoying the local cuisine and pubs in King’s Lynn is a great way to truly immerse yourself in the town’s culture and history. The pubs offer a wide array of local beers and ales, as well as traditional English dishes, such as shepherd’s pie and fish & chips.
Many of the pubs also feature live music, with bands playing everything from classic rock and blues to modern pop and indie tunes.
The cuisine is just as varied, with restaurants offering everything from traditional roast dinners to contemporary fusion cuisine. There are also plenty of cafes, tearooms, and bistros to suit any budget or preference.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, there is something for everyone in King’s Lynn. With its charming atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent selection of drinks, exploring the local pubs and restaurants is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Conclusion
I had a great time exploring Kings Lynn.
From visiting the ancient castle and admiring the stunning architecture of the Town Hall, to relaxing in the King’s Gardens and taking a riverside stroll along the Ouse, I’m sure I’ve only scratched the surface of the town’s long and rich history.
I also enjoyed visiting the interesting museums and art galleries, catching a show at the Kings Lynn Arts Centre, and going on a guided tour.
The local cuisine and pubs were a great way to end my day. Kings Lynn truly has something for everyone, and I’m already planning my next visit.