Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
The history of Blakeney
Blakeney is recorded as ‘Esnuterle’ in the 11th-century Domesday Book, and via another name, Snitterley, it was eventually known by its present-day name by the end of the 14th century. The village was granted a market by King Henry III in the 13th century and proceeded to become an important centre of local commerce, helped by its natural harbour looking out onto the North Sea.
Blakeney has a dubious connection with the darker side of seafaring – piracy and smuggling. There are many documented cases of ships having their cargo stripped while docked at Blakeney, and when asked to supply a ship for the fight against the Spanish Armada in 1588, the lawless residents of the village flatly refused.
Things to do and see around Blakeney
The striking beauty of the area is the main attraction of this part of Norfolk. The Blakeney National Nature Reserve is managed by the National Trust and includes wide open spaces and uninterrupted views of the dynamic North Norfolk coastline. Extensive area of saltmarsh, vegetated shingle, dunes and grazing marsh are there to be carefully explored, and wildlife abounds in the form of various sea birds and seals.
One of the best ways to get up close to the various creatures who make Blakeney and its surrounds their home is by boat. Locally operated ferry trips depart from Morston Quay to Blakeney Point, a four-mile-long sand and shingle spit. The sand dunes on Blakeney Point have formed over hundreds of years and form a rare habitat valuable for unusual plants, insects, birds and seals.
The Norfolk Coast Path passes through Blakeney, offering a walking route eastwards towards the town of Cromer or westwards towards Huntstanton. The full distance of the path is 45 miles so you’ll want to devote a few days to it if you plan to explore the entire Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
An interesting attraction just a mile or so to the west of Blakeney is Cley Windmill. A grade II listed classic windmill which has been converted to residential accommodation, it was built at the beginning of the 19th century and stands as an unlikely sight overlooking the River Glaven.
Back in Blakeney, those in need of a bite to eat and a drink will find pleasant shelter at the Kings Arms, a traditional Norfolk inn just yards from the Quay that has been serving locals and visitors for around 350 years. For a more refined dining experience, you could opt for the White Horse, where local produce is used to produce top quality meat and fish dishes to round off your exploration of Blakeney in perfect style.