Attractions and Places To See around Old Buckenham - Top 20

Old Buckenham and its surroundings offer several historical sites. You can visit the ruins of the 12th-century Old Buckenham Castle, which features earthworks and traces of its former stone curtain wall. Another significant site is Wymondham Abbey, a grand Anglican parish church originally founded in 1107. Also, consider the 17th-century octagonal Wymondham Market Cross in the historic market town of Wymondham.

Yes, the area is home to several historic churches. Old Buckenham's All Saints Church, dating back to the 12th century, is a Grade I listed building known for its circular churchyard and octagonal nave. Further afield, Wymondham Abbey is a prominent Anglican parish church with a rich monastic history. You can also visit All Saints Church, Ashwellthorpe, which features an ornate alabaster tomb from the 15th century.

For nature enthusiasts, Old Buckenham Country Park offers 32 acres of meadows, woodlands, and two natural lakes, ideal for walks and wildlife spotting. The Old Buckenham Green, one of England's largest village greens, is also a pleasant spot for strolls. Additionally, West Harling Common provides diverse landscapes with woodland, the River Thet, and open heathland, featuring multiple footpaths.

The gentle terrain around Old Buckenham is excellent for hiking. You can find various trails, including a moderate 9.5 km loop around Old Buckenham Windmill. Other options include the Wymondham Waterfall Steps – Wymondham Abbey loop, also around 9.5 km, and easier routes like the 7 km OB Café & Deck by the Pond loop from New Buckenham. For more hiking options, explore the hiking guide for Old Buckenham.

Yes, Old Buckenham offers a variety of cycling routes. For road cyclists, there are easy to moderate routes like the 43.9 km Wortham Ling Heath – Angel Café loop. Touring cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 14.2 km Tree Tunnel on Hargham Road – The Hideout loop, which is an easy ride. You can find more detailed routes in the road cycling guide and general cycling guide for Old Buckenham.

The Old Buckenham Windmill, built in 1818, is a preserved brick tower mill notable for having the widest tower and largest cap in England. It originally had eight sails and later four patent sails, ceasing operation in 1926. It is open to the public on selected dates, offering insights into local agricultural heritage.

Many attractions in and around Old Buckenham are suitable for families. Wymondham Abbey and Wymondham Market Cross are both family-friendly historical sites. Old Buckenham Country Park provides open spaces for children to explore, and West Harling Common offers easy footpaths through nature. The Old Buckenham Airfield also hosts aviation events, which can be exciting for all ages.

Old Buckenham village has two public houses, The Gamekeeper and The Ox and Plough, both located by the village green, offering refreshments. There is also a café at Old Buckenham Country Park. For a coffee stop with good food, consider Chestnuts Coffee Shop, known for its sausage rolls and cake.

Old Buckenham Airfield has a significant history, having served as a base for American bombers during World War II and playing a role in D-Day preparations. Actors James Stewart and Walter Matthau were also based here during the war. Today, it remains an active airfield and hosts various aviation events, including an annual airshow that has featured displays by the Red Arrows.

The area around Old Buckenham, with its gentle terrain and rural landscapes, is generally pleasant for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. Summer offers warmer weather for exploring the village green and country park, while spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery for walking and cycling routes through woodlands and open fields.

Beyond the general rural landscape, Old Buckenham Country Park offers tranquil woodlands and two natural lakes, providing serene views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The expansive Old Buckenham Green, surrounded by charming cottages and oak trees, is also a picturesque feature. West Harling Common features a mix of woodland, river, and open heathland, offering varied natural vistas.

Visitors frequently appreciate the historical depth of sites like Wymondham Abbey, noting its impressively intact yet partially ruined structure. The charm of historic market towns like Wymondham, with its Market Cross and local shops, is also highly rated. Nature lovers enjoy the diverse landscapes and walking opportunities at places like West Harling Common, which offers beautiful scenery and multiple footpaths.