There are several distinct highlights to consider when planning a trip to Aylsham: a historic narrow-gauge steam railway, walking and cycling trails, town history and markets. When choosing a holiday rental, it may help to decide first whether you would rather plan a train ride, visit historic sites or take a trip along one of the routes. Timetables, booking times and market days have their own schedules, so check these before your trip.
Steam train at the terminus
Aylsham Station is the northern terminus of the Bure Valley Railway. Steam train rides to Wroxham start here; the historic narrow-gauge railway runs between Aylsham and Wroxham. At the station, there is a miniature version of Thomas the Tank Engine, as well as a small exhibition on railway history in the Interpretation Centre. The station exhibits may change.
Walking and cycling routes of different lengths
The Bure Valley Path starts at the Bure Valley Railway terminus and runs as a nine-mile walking and cycling route between Aylsham and Wroxham. Near Aylsham, it connects to Marriott’s Way. This 26-mile, traffic-free walking and cycling route follows two disused railway lines between Aylsham and Norwich. In Aylsham, the route starts on Norwich Road opposite the Bure Valley Railway station. Comparing the lengths provides a practical guide for planning; access conditions may change, so it is worth checking the latest notices before setting out.
Marriott’s Way is also designated a County Wildlife Site and includes a range of habitats, including the Wensum river valley and Whitwell Common. If this aspect of nature is important to your plans, check the latest information on its status and management.
Town history on walks and at the Heritage Centre
The Aylsham Heritage Centre features exhibitions on various aspects of the town’s history. Visitors can also view archive photographs of the town and its history. Exhibitions change periodically, and the selection and presentation of photographs may also change. For families, the Centre offers individually tailored guided walks, with several routes to choose from and times available for booking. Check booking options before you arrive.
The Aylsham Heritage Snail Trail runs through historic streets and links snail-themed artworks, QR codes, historic buildings and local stories. The family-friendly trail features 22 artworks at historic locations; the artworks and information may evolve over time. This makes the walk a different way to discover the town’s history than the exhibitions at the Centre.
St Michael’s Church, Aylsham’s oldest building, stands at the north-west corner of the Market Place in the town centre. In 1372, John of Gaunt provided funds to build a large new church in Aylsham dedicated to St Michael and All Angels. The 11-acre Aylsham Recreation Ground also has a historical connection: it was donated as a public memorial in remembrance of the First World War.
Markets and other places to visit
The Aylsham Food and Craft Market takes place on the first Saturday of each month in the Market Place. It offers local produce, handcrafted goods, street food and live music; the selection and programme may vary. The weekly market takes place on Mondays and Fridays, except on public holidays, and has stalls selling food and household goods. The two market days therefore differ in both their frequency and the range of goods described.
At Redwings Aylsham, visitors can see dozens of rescued horses and ponies for free. If you plan to visit, follow the latest visitor information.
Discover more destinations: Hockering, Wighton, Northrepps, Taverham, East Runton, Hockwold Cum Wilton, Yelverton, Brancaster.
For the broader travel overview: Norfolk.
