Best things to do in Norfolk
21.07.2023 - 07:35
/ roughguides.com
/ queen Victoria
Norfolk is known for endless skies and wide horizons stretching over sandy beaches and a web of waterways. The county is a magnet for fans of the great outdoors, particularly bird watchers and boating enthusiasts. But there are so many other things to do in Norfolk. There are superb medieval churches, fascinating museums and stately homes, as well as lively seaside resorts and bags of entertainment for kids.
The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Norfolk & Suffolk , your essential guide for visiting Norfolk .
Residents of north Norfolk can feel justifiably smug. Holkham Bay is one of the most spectacular beaches in the country and it’s right on their doorstep. A vast, sweeping expanse of golden sand, backed by grassy dunes and pinewoods, and part of a nature reserve, there’s space for everyone, even during high season.
Low tide reveals miles of empty beach, which makes visiting the bay one of the best things to do in Norfolk for long walks and for four-legged friends to stretch their legs. You might also see people on horseback cantering along the shoreline. During the summer a delightful blanket of blooming purple lavender spreads across the salt marsh behind the dunes.
If a beach holiday is what you're looking for, explore our guide to the top beaches in Britain.
Walking along the sand dunes at Holkham Bay is one of the best things to do in Norfolk ©Andy333/Shutterstock
Not many people receive a country estate as a birthday present. But we have all benefited from Queen Victoria presenting Sandringham as a gift to the Prince of Wales (Edward VII to be) and his wife, Princess Alexandra, in 1862. Although the estate now serves as the King's bolthole, ordinary Joes can visit the surrounding 600-acre country park for free.
There are two main trails for walking or cycling, but there are many other woodland paths and open grassland for strolling or laying down a picnic blanket. Sandringham House itself is open to the public. You can also wander the glorious gardens and visit the museum. Home to royal memorabilia, it includes a fantastic collection of vintage vehicles and an assortment of gifts given to the Queen.
Sandringham Estate in Norfolk ©mrmhf/Shutterstock
The system of waterways that form the Norfolk Broads are the county’s jewel – and we’ve got medieval peat diggers to thank. The pits left behind from extensive digging gradually flooded to become the network of wetlands and National Park we have today.
One of the best things to do in Norfolk is to row a boat or canoe in Broads. What could be more relaxing than gliding along, listening to the sounds of bird calls, the rustling of reeds and the creak of the oars, and the gentle swoosh of water – especially if someone