Great nostalgic pictures of Holt through the years

Tony Wenham

Published: 6:30 PM October 25, 2017 Updated: 9:21 AM October 11, 2020

Holt Hall endeavour course was nearing the end of its two week run when Peter Lown, of Lowestoft, and Roger Booth, of King's Lynn, were caught going over the assault course in January 1964. Picture: Archant Library - Credit: Archant Library

Take a trip down memory lane with our fabulous photographic celebration of East Anglian life through the decades. Today we take a nostalgic look back at Holt, a historic market town situated 9.5 miles West of Cromer.

Contestants come under a barrage of water as they go round the course during the wheel barrow relay race in Holt main street, July 1982. Picture: Archant Library - Credit: Archant Library

Its quaint Victorian shopping yards and beautiful Georgian buildings are among one of the reasons Jolt remains one of Norfolk's most popular locations.

But the town's history actually goes much further back than its architecture suggests - no one is sure of its exact beginnings but it is mentioned in the Domesday book in 1086 when 60 men and 90 sheep were listed as living there.

A major fire in 1708 destroyed most of its early buildings and much of the town was rebuilt in the distinct flint and stone which gives it so much of its character today. The higgledy-piggledy cafe Byfords is thought to be the oldest house in Holt with its cellar dating back to the 15th century, having survived the fire.

Copies of the images featured in this story are available to buy via our photo sales website.