King’s Lynn is an historic market town, and the third largest centre in Norfolk. It was also once one of the UK’s most important ports — despite not being on the sea. It was known as ‘the warehouse on the Wash’, and supposedly in the town’s heyday you could walk across the River Ouse, against which the town sits, by just stepping from boat to boat. These days you will need to use the ferry! But King’s Lynn’s regal churches, impressive merchant’s houses, and lively market are all reminders of the town’s historic wealth and importance. Some of the best places to stay in King’s Lynn have been converted from the town’s elegant, historic buildings, including a Georgian bank, and an old inn.

If you’re considering King’s Lynn for a mini-break, you’ll be pleased to hear that this town’s lively market — dating from the 12th century — and wonderful architecture are just the entertainment for the first day. King’s Lynn also has a fascinating collection of museums and two theatres. To explore the town follow one, or several, of the local tourist trails, which are self-guided walking routes around the town’s highlights. The town also makes a good base visiting the picturesque North Norfolk Coast, known for its birdlife, views and walking paths, and for the Norfolk Broads. There are also a number of important National Trust properties a short drive away.

The best places to stay in King’s Lynn may also appeal to foodies, because the Georgian marketplace is still awash with produce — try the local brown shrimp on Tuesdays or Saturdays, and the local fruit and veg and cakes, breads and preserves on Fridays.

The Best Places to Stay in King’s Lynn

For Historic Charm

• One of the most impressive buildings in the centre of King’s Lynn is the Bank House, a beautiful Georgian townhouse, turned bank, turned charming, eleven room hotel. Each of the guest rooms has been individually designed and decorated, making the most of the many original features, but with fresh, unfussy furnishings, and state of the art bathrooms. Our favourite rooms have views of the river. The brasserie has a well deserved local following, and is open all day for coffee and cakes etc.

The Best Pubs with Rooms

• Goldings is an historic Norfolk pub that’s been given a chic and cheerful makeover. The pub itself has remained cosy, but is lighter and brighter, with more of a focus on the food offering, and upstairs are six guest rooms — two suitable for families, and two for dogs. Located in the heart of King’s Lynn, this a great pick for exploring town.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• You can get to King’s Lynn from London in just under two hours by rail, or in about two hours by car. If you’re thinking of flying in, the closest international airport as the crow flies is probably Norwich International Airport which is about an hour away by car or taxi, or about two and a half hours away by public transport. London Stansted Airport is about an hour and a half away by car or taxi, or just under two hours by train; London City Airport is about two hours by car or taxi, and three hours by train; and Heathrow, which is on the opposite side of London from King’s Lynn, and just over three hours by train, or two hours by car or taxi.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Norfolk doesn’t have extreme weather, and while it’s undoubtedly lovelier under a sunny sky in July or August, Norfolk can also be charming in the spring and summer, and even on a crisp, clear winter day. Norfolk hosts a number of Christmas fairs in November and December, and that adds to the cheer in the towns and centres. The Norfolk Broads are busiest in the school holidays, especially during the summer, but many people enjoy the added bustle on the water, if not the higher priced boats. Norfolk gets rain throughout the seasons, so just come prepared!

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Norfolk
• Consider the best places to stay in nearby Norwich, Holt or on the North Norfolk Coast
• Search by the kind of accommodation you’re looking for. For example the best Norfolk beach hotels, the best pubs with rooms in Norfolk, the best hotels for families or the best country house hotels
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.