It's been compared to a brogue, Holt: sturdy, handsome, and reliable. But in the last week of July the pretty Georgian town kicks off its shoes and puts on its festival. The festival, now only in its third year, is quite a newcomer. Already it has the feel of something that's too good, and too much fun, to be abandoned. It's all made possible by the generosity of benefactors, sponsors and the local council.
Holt's a place where small businesses, butchers, and fishmongers thrive, and where cafés, restaurants and antique shops are plentiful. In the summer months it's a magnet for tourists, and all year round it's where residents of the surrounding countryside, the brick and flint hamlets and villages, gather. During festival week, briefly and dazzlingly, it is home to street performers, musicians, poets, actors, dancers, artists and comedians.
There are venues all over town, in pubs and hotels, in tents and school halls, there are performances at the church, the theatre, in the bookshop, and on the streets.
If you are looking for a quiet time in the countryside, this is not it. If, on the other hand, you're looking for cultural nourishment, some belly laughs, and the pleasure of seeing some top-flight internationally recognised performers, then come along. Wear brogues if you wish.