King's Lynn, Norfolk travel guide and King's Lynn information

Visit Kings Lynn

King's Lynn is a substantial market town and port situated towards the west of the county of Norfolk, south of Hunstanton and west of Norwich. It is at the south-east corner of the Wash, which led to the towns development as an important maritime centre from the 12th century onwards. It is essentially a lively local town rather than a major tourist destination.

An important local centre, there are several things to explore and enjoy during a visit, as well as all shopping facilities - the town centre in King's Lynn has undergone substantial modernisation in recent years, including a substantial overhaul of the Vancouver Shopping centre, and it is an important local shopping centre.

Buildings and monuments in King's Lynn

There are several interesting buildings and monuments to discover in Kings Lynn - we suggest you visit the Kings Lynn visitor centre first for a leaflet giving information and a suggested route to follow that includes many of the highlights (there is also a 'pilgrimage trail' passing the religious buildings in King's Lynn if that is your interest).

The most important monuments include: the Custom House, dating from the 17th century and now home to King's Lynn tourist office and a small maritime display; the South Gate, the traditional entrance to the town constructed in the 15th century (now on a busy road). The 15th-17th century Town Hall and Guildhall (the largest medieval guildhall in England and now a National Trust property) is another important building, immediately recognisable because of its unusual chequered appearance, while the 15th century Hanseatic Warehouse and Hampton Court are also notable landmarks in the town.

Among the notable religious buildings see the Church of Saint Margaret (13th-15th century) and the All Saints Church, and also the 14th century Chapel of Saint Nicholas. See also the Greyfriars Tower, all that remains of a Franciscan monastery that once stood here (until the dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII), in well-maintained gardens; and the 15th century Red Mount chapel in the park area known as 'the walks', at one time a local pilgrimage centre (note, the red-brick building doesn't look miuch like a chapel...see photo above)

Other attractions

Take time also to stroll through the extensive park area in the town known as 'The Walks' (because it was designed specifically in the 18th century as somewhere for the townsfolk to walk, away from the bustle of the town).

Vist the Discovery Centre in the converted Marriotts Warehouse at Green Quay to learn about the wildlife of the region.

On the edge of King's Lynn the Caithness Crystal glassworks can be visited to learn how the famous glass articles are produced.

You can find more local travel ideas in the Norfolk guide and the Norfolk guide.