20 Best Things To Do In Norfolk, UK – 2023

Are you wondering what are the best things to do in Norfolk in the UK? I have lived in the UK for more than a decade now. I love to share with you the county made popular by the Royal Family Christmas tradition in East Anglia.

Norfolk is a gem on the eastern coast of England. It is characterized by its charming countryside, stunning coastlines, and a rich tapestry of history and culture. Whatever your vibe is, Norfolk has something for you. From the waterways to the cathedral, and its local produce, Norfolk is a destination that will captivate and surprise you. So read on and learn about the best things to do in Norfolk.

Best Things to Do in Norfolk, UK

Natural Wonders of Norfolk

As mentioned, Norfolk is a gem of England that offers a lot of attractions to both local and foreign tourists. But perhaps the most compelling ones are the natural wonders scattered around the county. Norfolk offers you an opportunity to leave behind the busy city streets and immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes. Here are some of the Norfolk’s wonders.

1. Norfolk Coast and Beaches 

Long stretches of sand and clear waters are a defining feature of Norfolk’s coastline. Be it the charming seaside town of Cromer with its classic Victorian pier or the captivating views from the cliffs of Hunstanton, the coast is brimming with attractions. There’s an inherent tranquility to these places that really offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This is good for relaxation or a leisurely walk with your loved ones and pets.

2. Norfolk Broads National Park 

Venture somehow inland, and you’ll find the mesmerizing Norfolk Broads National Park. The area is a network of rivers and lakes, that spans 303 square kilometers, making it Britain’s largest protected wetland. This expansive aquatic landscape is a boater’s paradise, and there’s no better way to spend a sunny day than cruising down the waterways, taking in the sights. The Park is also home to several villages where traditional windmills decorate the skyline – a perfect embodiment of the timeless charm of the English countryside.

Read More: 15 Beautiful National Parks in the UK Worth Visiting

3. Wildlife and Nature Reserves 

Norfolk’s nature reserves are a testament to the county’s commitment to protecting and nurturing its diverse wildlife. One example is the Cley Marshes. It is a birdwatching haven with its variety of species. It’s not uncommon to spot an Avocet, the iconic bird of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, while walking along the Marshes’ meandering footpaths. Then there’s the Pensthorpe Natural Park, a family-friendly reserve that promotes conservation through interactive exhibits and walking trails. 

Norwich Castles and Stately Homes

When you step into Norfolk, you basically stepped into the pages of history itself. From ancient castles to grand stately homes, Norfolk is an architectural treasure chest. There’s an awe-inspiring range of historical structures to explore, each with its unique tale to tell. Here are three captivating landmarks that truly represent Norfolk’s rich past: Norwich Castle, Castle Acre, and the Sandringham Estates.

4. Norwich Castle

Located on a hill overlooking the city, Norwich Castle is a splendid spectacle. The keep, built over nine centuries ago by the Normans, now houses a museum and art gallery. It’s like stepping back in time as you wander through the decorated chambers, marvelling at the collections of archaeology, fine art, and natural history. With interactive exhibits and immersive experiences, you’ll truly appreciate the castle’s multifaceted history.

5. Castle Acre

Next is the village of Castle Acre. It is home to the ruins of a Norman castle and a splendid Cluniac Priory. The castle offers a glimpse into medieval fortress architecture, with its old bailey, walls and great tower. Roaming around the ruins, you’ll be struck by the impressive scale of the fortifications and the stunning views over the village. Now, just a stone’s throw away is the Priory. It is an equally fascinating with its historical charm and tranquil gardens. 

6. Sandringham Estates

Finally, a visit to Norfolk wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Sandringham Estates, the Queen’s private home during winter. This royal retreat boasts an Edwardian mansion set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. The estate also includes the Sandringham Museum, where a variety of royal memorabilia is displayed, and the St Mary Magdalene Church, an architectural gem in its own right. Visitors can tour parts of the mansion, stroll through the gardens, or enjoy a leisurely walk in the surrounding woodland. 

Museums and Galleries

From the intriguing history of seaside life to the compelling tales of the World War era, Norfolk’s diverse range of museums and galleries offer a rich tapestry of experiences for every visitor. Here are three cultural highlights that you must visit when you are in Norfolk: the Time and Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth Life, RAF Air Defence Radar Museum, and Dad’s Army Museum in Thetford.

7. Time and Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth Life

First is the well-loved Time and Tide Museum in Great Yarmouth. This is a fascinating exploration of the town’s long-standing maritime heritage. Housed in a converted herring curing works, the museum guides you through a labyrinth of recreated streets and homes from the Victorian era. With its mix of interactive exhibits, from the fragrant smokehouse to the eerie Row Houses, the museum captures the soul of a community shaped by the sea.

8. RAF Air Defence Radar Museum

Next is the RAF Air Defense Radar Museum. At the RAF Air Defence Radar Museum in Horning, you’ll dive headfirst into the nerve centre of Britain’s aerial defence during the Cold War. Located in an original Cold War Operations Room, the museum offers a perspective on the development of radar and its crucial role in the country’s defence history. You can inspect vintage radars and computers, engage with interactive exhibits, and hear personal accounts of radar veterans, making for an enlightening journey through time.

9. Dad’s Army Museum Thetford

Last is the Dad’s Army Museum in Thetford that provides a fun and nostalgic trip down memory lane. The museum celebrates the classic BBC television comedy series, which was filmed in and around the town. You can wander through Walmington-on-Sea, meet life-size models of the beloved characters, and even sit in Captain Mainwaring’s office. The museum brings the laughter and camaraderie of the Home Guard to life, offering a unique way to experience a beloved piece of British television history.

 Activities and Adventures

Adventure-seekers, nature enthusiasts, and family fun lovers will find an abundance of activities to indulge in within Norfolk’s borders. Here are some of the things you can do in Norfolk whether you prefer strolling, sailing, or seeking out family entertainment: 

10. Walking and Hiking Trails

Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path National Trail are a favourite among keen hikers. This trail blends the tranquillity of the countryside with the refreshing coastal air, offering views that are nothing short of breathtaking. On the other hand, the Bure Valley Path will lead you through scenic landscapes following the route of the historic railway. From forests to open farmland, these trails indeed provide a refreshing journey into the heart of Norfolk’s nature.

11. Boating and Sailing Adventures

If you’re more at home on the water, there is no need to worry because there is also a boating adventure on the Norfolk Broads. Here you will navigate through a labyrinth of waterways in a self-drive boat, a traditional wooden sailing boat, or even a modern electric cruiser. The beauty of this activity is you don’t have to be an experienced sailor to enjoy the journey. The calm waters, punctuated with thatched cottages and charming windmills, offer a distinctive experience that’s quintessentially Norfolk.

12. Family Friendly Attractions

Now, when it comes to fun-filled outings for the entire family, Norfolk doesn’t disappoint. BeWILDerwood, a magical forest adventure park, is a world of treehouses, zip wires, and jungle bridges where imagination runs wild. Then, there’s the Dinosaur Adventure, a prehistoric paradise packed with life-size models of dinosaurs, interactive displays, and adventure play areas. Or take a journey on the Bure Valley Railway, a narrow gauge steam train that weaves through stunning countryside. 

Pretty Norfolk Villages

Distributed across Norfolk’s landscapes are villages that charm visitors with their unique character and beauty. Each of these havens encapsulates a slice of the original English life, adding another layer to the captivating Norfolk experience. If you are up to this, you may check some of these charming locales: Wroxham, Horning, Wells-next-the-Sea, Blakeney, and Walsingham.

13. Wroxham

Wroxham, often referred to as the ‘capital of the Broads,’ is a popular starting point for boat hire and river trips. Its riverside has shops, restaurants, and pubs, making it a lively base for those exploring the Broads. And if you have an affinity for miniature wonders, you should not miss the Wroxham Miniature Worlds. It is the largest indoor modeling attraction in the UK.

Besides being a boating hub, Wroxham is home to the world’s largest village store, Roys of Wroxham. A must-visit for shopaholics, Roys spans across multiple buildings, offering everything from food and fashion to toys and home goods. The Bure Valley Railway, a steam and diesel heritage railway, also starts here, providing a nostalgic trip through the picturesque Bure valley.

14. Horning

Set along the River Bure is the delightful village of Horning. With its waterside homes, pretty pubs, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s easy to see why it’s considered a gem of the Norfolk Broads. A river cruise is a perfect way to enjoy Horning’s charm, providing a tranquil backdrop for a relaxing afternoon.

Horning’s appeal extends beyond its serene riverside setting. The village has a rich sailing heritage, demonstrated by the many traditional wherries and sailing cruisers often seen on the river. For fans of Arthur Ransome’s ‘Coot Club’ and ‘The Big Six,’ Horning is a place of pilgrimage, with many landmarks recognisable from these classic tales. And let’s not forget the local eateries! One example is  the renowned Swan Inn. Here, you can savour a hearty meal as you watch the world drift by on the River Bure.

15. Wells-next-the-Sea

Wells-next-the-Sea is a coast known for its beach huts, harbour and gauge railway. Its beach is a spectacle, boasting soft sand and a pine forest backdrop. The town’s quay is a hive of activity with fishing boats, crabbing, and the chance to sample some delicious local seafood.

In addition to its stunning beach, Wells-next-the-Sea offers a multitude of other attractions. There’s the historic granary with its distinctive overhanging gantry, a reminder of the town’s rich maritime past. The narrow, winding streets are filled with independent boutiques, galleries, and delis, making Wells an excellent destination for leisurely shopping. The town also boasts the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway, the world’s smallest public railway, which offers a unique and delightful journey to the pilgrimage town of Walsingham.

16. Blakeney

Blakeney is a coastal village that perfectly embodies the beauty of the North Norfolk Coast. Its streets are lined with flint cottages and the quayside offers a majestic view over the salt marshes. You can say that It’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts; Blakeney Point is home to England’s largest grey seal colony.

Blakeney’s charm also lies in its network of narrow lanes and alleyways lined with traditional Norfolk flint cottages. For birdwatchers, the Blakeney National Nature Reserve is a treat, offering opportunities to see a variety of birds, including terns, avocets, and waders. Boat trips to Blakeney Point to see the seals are also a popular pastime, with the possibility of seeing common and grey seals basking on the sandbanks.

17. Walsingham

Last is the Walsingham, a village steeped in religious history. Known as England’s ‘Nazareth’, it has been a place of pilgrimage since the 11th century. You can visit the stunning ruins of the Priory, walk the tranquil Stations of the Cross, or simply take in the peaceful atmosphere of this spiritual centre. 

Walsingham is not only a place of great spiritual but also of great historical significance. The Anglican and Roman Catholic Shrines of Our Lady of Walsingham are central to the village’s religious character. Apart from the spiritual sites, Walsingham hosts the Norfolk Riddle, a restaurant serving local produce. The village is also a gateway to long-distance pilgrimage walking routes, such as the Walsingham Way, providing a journey of discovery through Norfolk’s picturesque countryside.

I wrote another article about our Pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of Walsingham Shrine in Norfolk for Lent.

Norfolk Seaside Resort and Entertainment

Norfolk’s coastline is a beautiful blend of sandy stretches and charming resorts. It also offers a different seaside experiences that will leave you longing for more. Whether it’s the buzzing entertainment, the historic pier, or the expansive beaches, Norfolk’s coastal scene is a sensory delight. Here are some places you may want to visit: Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile, Cromer Pier and its beach huts, and the vast expanse of Holkham Beach.

18. Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile

Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile is a beautiful beachside stretching between the two piers, sandy beaches, amusement arcades, crazy golf, and plenty more. The Pleasure Beach, with its blend of rides and traditional attractions, is a hit with thrill-seekers of all ages. And for those interested in the marine world, SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth offers a chance to get up close with an array of underwater creatures, from penguins and sea turtles to tropical fish and sharks.

19. Cromer Pier and Beach Huts

Next is the Cromer. Cromer Pier, with its vintage charm, is a testament to the quintessential British seaside resort. Its iconic pier, home to the only remaining full-season end-of-the-pier show in Europe, juts out into the North Sea and provides excellent crab fishing opportunities. Along the beachside, the brightly coloured beach huts add a dash of playfulness to the landscape. Cromer is also famous for its tasty crabs, and there’s nothing better than sampling a fresh crab sandwich while taking in the sea view.

20. Holkham Beach

Last is the Holkham Beach. It is a serene spectacle of golden sand and shimmering sea that stretches as far as the eye can see. Its an unspoiled and big landscape backed by a forest of pines which create a very peaceful setting for walks, picnics and even horse riding. Part of the Holkham National Nature Reserve, the beach is also a haven for birdwatchers. At the end of a perfect beach day, make your way to The Victoria Inn which is a nearby pub serving delicious locally sourced food, for a satisfying sundowner.

If you’re planning a visit to Norfolk, UK, you’re in for a treat! This charming county has so much to offer, and you won’t want to miss out on the best things to do in Norfolk.

So, whether you’re into nature, or history, or just want to relax on a beautiful beach, Norfolk has something for everyone. It’s a destination that will leave you with lasting memories and a desire to explore the best things to do in Norfolk.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Everything Zany

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