The Breckland village of Thompson is reached by a back-road off the A1075, itself one of the quieter highways in a quiet county. This then is a peaceful village for those wanting some repose, or perhaps a base from which to tour this part of Norfolk. Many will wish to start their tour at The Chequers, a white-washed and thatched pub that ticks all the country inn boxes. Yet the curious should not end their exploration there. The strangest find in the area is its pingos. Pingos are shallow ponds formed during the ice age, after frozen “lenses” of water beneath the surface of the land pushed soil up and then off, creating craters that eventually became ponds. Thompson Common is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, from which dogs are banned in order to protect the rare fauna and flora found there. Thompson Water, these days run by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, is a beautiful little lake created in 1854 on the site of Sandwade Fen, a peat common (so is in effect a late addition to the Broads, but distant from that part of the county). The Watering as the lake is known locally has pretty wooded walks around it, and fishing permits can be procured for those in search of sport. The village church, St Martin’s, is a typical Norfolk perpendicular style building that dates from 1349, as does College Farm next to it, once housing the five priests of the collegiate church, now a B&B, like the lovely Thatched House in the village. The church was founded by local magnates the Shardlows, probably in the hope of winning some divine protection from the Black Death. As Thompson even in Tudor times was off the beaten track, where its neighbours were “improved” over the years, much of St Martin’s is untouched, and like the village all the better for it.
Pub and Bar
School
Places to Stay near Thompson
College Farm (0.52 miles)
The Penthouse (2.63 miles)
The Penthouse at Watton sleeps 3.On entrance through the flat door you enter into the inner hall. To the left is the bedroom with a 5ft and 3ft bed, hand ... More
The Willow House (2.65 miles)
Located in Watton, a Market Town in Central Norfolk, The Willow House is a beautiful sixteenth century thatched, grade two listed building. The Inn and restaurant were cottages that have now been converted into a period ... More | visit website
The Willow House (2.65 miles)
Located in Watton, a Market Town in Central Norfolk, The Willow House is a beautiful sixteenth century thatched, grade two listed building. The Inn and restaurant were cottages that have now been converted into a period ... More | visit website
The Hare & Barrel Hotel (2.75 miles)
We would like to wish you a very pleasant stay in our Hotel where we try and create a traditional family atmosphere for both our daily customers and residents alike. Here at The Hare & ... More | visit website
Broom Hall Country Hotel (3.23 miles)
Brovey Lair (3.57 miles)
The Olde Windmill Inn (5.78 miles)
A village inn since circa 1650. The hostelry has built its reputation on serving high quality competitively priced food, from an extensive menu with changing daily specials; plus six real ... More
Aldercarr Hall (6.29 miles)
Hilborough Swan Inn (6.43 miles)
As well as unwinding and relaxing with us, we provide an ideal base from which you can explore Norfolk. The Swan Inn is also a wonderful place in which to celebrate a variety of ... MoreBrit Quote: |
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