Norfolk Holiday Destinations Every Tourist Should Visit
It’s not all just Alan Partridge and Coleman’s Mustard, Norfolk has some of the most stunning nature, architecture and coastal walks in the country. Here’s some of our favourites here at Norfolk Holiday Properties!
The Broads National Park
For me personally, it’s always going to be difficult to not mention The Broads when I talk to anyone about Norfolk. With over 200 km of navigable waterways, there is nothing quite as peaceful nor as enjoyable than spending a day cruising under huge open blue skies through the natural peaceful tranquillity that the broads has to offer.
There’s a number of wonderfully picturesque villages that often have a riverside pub, perfect for mooring up and having a bite to eat and a locally brewed ale.
There’s a whole host of natural spots to stop and explore all along the many different waterways, whether you’re looking for woodland or windmills, the broads have so much to offer! You can hire a boat from various boating companies in Wroxham such as Broads Tours and Richardson’s boating holidays.
If you want to start somewhere other than Wroxham, then there are various other starting spots such as Horning and Potter Heigham.
Looking for somewhere to stay after a long day cruising the broads, try Quayside cottage.
Cromer Pier
Famous for being the only pier in the world to host a show at the 510-seater Pavilion Theatre, Cromer Pier has become renowned in Norfolk and beyond. Technically it has been around since the 14th century, the pier we see today has changed drastically having been rebuilt a number of times and has had several restorations over recent years. Most recently after a tidal surge in 2013.
Whether you go to see a summer or Christmas show at the Pavilion, or just want to take in the stunning views with some fish and chips or an ice cream, Cromer Pier is a delightful destination to visit!
Looking for somewhere to stay? Try Fisherman’s or Shoemaker’s cottage.
Wells-next-the Sea and Blakeney Point
A port on the North Norfolk coast of England, and probably the nicest beach in the county! A perfect place to holiday! In addition to the stunning beach there’s many scenic walks, lovely places to eat and nature reserves to explore. Walking from the town, you’ll likely wander through shady pinewoods towards the sandy beach where you’ll be greeted by an array of colourful stilted beach huts. If you’re lucky, you’re also likely to come across some friendly sun bathing seals chilling on the sand banks!
For wildlife lovers, Blakeney point is just a short drive away, and is home to the largest grey seal colony in England! Get up close and personal and go with one of the ferry tour operators which departs from Morston Quay.
Looking for somewhere to stay? We have a whole host of terrific properties for all sized groups such as Laylands Yard or The Nest. OR if you’re just having a day or two at the beach check out The Blue horizon beach hut.
Find a further array of wonderful options here.
Norwich Cathedral and Norwich Castle
Completed in 1145, taking 50 years to build, Norwich Cathedral is one of the greatest architectural structures in the county. An astounding, iconic structure which boasts the second highest spire in England, standing 315ft as well as the second largest Cloisters. There are free guided tours available which are a perfect way to take in the 900-year history of the Cathedral. If you’re very lucky, you may see the Peregrine Falcons which have nested on the spire! You’re most likely to catch a view of these magnificent creatures between March and June from the observation point located in Cathedral Close.
Norwich Castle was completed in 1121, although originally designed to be a Royal Palace, no Norman King actually ever lived in it. In 1883 worked started to convert the Castle into a museum, opening in 1894, which it still exists as today! The Museum has incredible archaeology, natural history, regimental history galleries, as well as fine decorative and contemporary art. Tours of the castle keep, battlements, dungeons and Victorian Shirehall courthouse are available.
It’s a great day out for kids and adults alike and is a wonderfully interesting educational environment. The castle is open all year round, Monday to Sunday with admissions for a family (with 2 adults) available at £34.85. Visit here for more information and prices.
Need somewhere to stay for your Norwich visit, find some of our favourite city accommodations here.
The Salthouse Marshes
Salthouse Marshes is an area of small pools and extensive grazing marsh, a true nature and wildlife lover’s dream hosting a variety of rare and common birds.
It is the oldest wildlife trust reserve in the county, originally purchased in 1926 as a bird breeding sanctuary. Salthouse Marshes are now one of the most popular bird watching sites in the entire country. This area of small pools and extensive grazing marsh offers close views of waders and wildfowl.
The marshes are brought to life in Winter, when wintering Snow Buntings usually take up residence. You also regularly see barn owls and Marsh Harriers hunting over the marshes.
Need somewhere to cosy up after a day at the marshes? Tystie and Marlpit Cottage are the perfect places to spend a weekend whilst exploring Norfolk!
Norfolk has so much to see, and so many exciting things to do and enjoy. Don’t miss out on the joys of exploring your own country!
Want to read more? Check out Five Reason’s a Staycation Beats a Vacation.
Author: Joe Papworth
Date: 08/01/2020