Norfolk things to do
Norfolk is one of England’s most charming counties, known for its wide sandy beaches, nature reserves and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer escape, Norfolk offers something for everyone. Below is a guide to some of the best things to do in Norfolk.
Where to stay in Norfolk
We have visited Norfolk twice recently. The first time we stayed at Fox Burrows near Lenwade — a small collection of luxury holiday cottages tucked away in the countryside. Aptly nicknamed the “middle of nowhere”, the cottages are surrounded by fields and nature, making it the perfect place to slow down and unwind.
Our lodge had modern interiors, an open-plan living space and a private garden with a hot tub overlooking the countryside. The peaceful setting made it a great base for exploring the surrounding Norfolk villages and nearby attractions.
On a separate trip we stayed at Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa which offers stylish lodges along with plenty of facilities on site.
Our two-bedroom lodge was modern, clean and surprisingly spacious, with plenty of room for everyone to relax. There was an open-plan living area and a fully equipped kitchen which was handy for preparing meals and snacks during our stay. Having two separate bedrooms was ideal, particularly for a family trip, giving everyone a little more space!
There’s plenty to enjoy without even leaving the resort, including an indoor heated swimming pool, spa treatments, steam room, bar and restaurant. For families, there are also activities such as archery and adventure play areas to keep children entertained.
Best Things to do in Norfolk
The North Norfolk coast is famous for its natural beauty, wildlife and traditional seaside towns. It’s perfect for long beach walks, fresh seafood and relaxing coastal views.
Hunstanton
If you’re heading to Hunstanton as part of your Norfolk adventures, there’s plenty to keep you busy! It’s known for its red and white striped cliff layers of chalk and sandstone. You can walk down on the beach and see them up close although there are warning signs about falling debris!
Just a short stroll along the promenade you’ll find the buzz of the arcades and amusements. Isn’t it great the 2p machine still exists after all these years?! Just above the seafront you can walk through Esplanade Gardens with its flower beds and children’s park.
A visit to Rainbow Park is very much that classic seaside fairground experience with its neon lights, music, and rides for all ages right on the seafront. You’ll find a mix of traditional favourites like dodgems and waltzers alongside bigger and more thrilling rides. It’s all pay-as-you-go, with most rides typically costing around £3 each.
There are plenty of places to eat in Hunstanton along the beach front, both sit down and kiosks. Just above the seafront is Henry’s of Hunstanton, a popular local favourite for great fish & chips. We also heard great things about Sofia’s 22 offering a mixture of tapas.
Wells-next-the-Sea
Wells-next-the-Sea is known for its colourful beach huts, historic harbour and charming streets filled with independent shops and cafés. Take a stroll along the harbour, browse the small boutiques and have fun in the arcades with the kids. We had lunch at The Golden Fleece serving pub classics at affordable prices.
Nearby the main car park there is a large children’s park with a pirate ship and plenty of play equipment. There’s a path to the beach nearby for a walk along the coast.
Holkham Beach
Holkham Beach offers miles of open sand backed by dunes and pine woods. It’s part of the wider Holkham National Nature Reserve, making it ideal for nature lovers.
‘
You can walk for hours across the huge sandy flats, explore the dunes or cycle through nearby woodland paths. From here you can reach Blakeney Point on an organised boat tour which is one of the best places in Norfolk to see seals in their natural habitat.
Cromer
Cromer is one of those classic North Norfolk spots that just feels like a proper British seaside day out. The seafront is centred around its beach and historic pier, with a lively promenade. It was full of cafés, fish and chip shops, and a few traditional arcades adding that nostalgic holiday buzz.
The rows of colourful beach huts dotted along the promenade are bright, cheerful, and perfect for soaking up the sea views. If you fancy stretching your legs, Cromer is brilliant for coastal walks too taking the clifftop paths with sweeping views out over the North Sea.
Horsey Gap
Horsey Gap is one of Norfolk’s most famous wildlife locations and a must-visit if you want to see seals. Hundreds of grey seals often rest along the beach here, especially during the winter pupping season. Visitors can walk along the dunes and wooden boardwalks to safely observe the seals in their natural environment. It was a really special experience for animal lovers.
The Norfolk Broads
The Norfolk Broads is a unique network of rivers and lakes, often described as Britain’s largest protected wetland.
One of the best ways to experience the Broads is by hiring a small boat and exploring the waterways yourself. Many places offer simple self-drive boats, often around £35 for two hours, and no boating experience is required.
Cruising along the calm rivers lets you enjoy peaceful countryside views, riverside pubs and plenty of wildlife along the banks.
North Norfolk Railway
The North Norfolk Railway, also known as the Poppy Line, is a wonderfully nostalgic heritage railway running between the seaside town of Sheringham and the Georgian market town of Holt.
At Christmas, the Santa Special adds a magical festive twist. The traditional steam train travels from Sheringham to Holt before heading back to Weybourne, where families enter a Christmas Tree Kingdom, meet Santa and receive a wrapped present. There are also festive refreshments, children’s activity booklets and entertainers.
Visit Norwich
Visit the magnificent Norwich Cathedral, wander through the medieval lanes known as the Norwich Lanes and browse the vibrant market at Norwich Market.
The city is also known for its independent shops, cosy cafés and historic buildings and just nice for a good mooch!
Family-Friendly Attractions
Norfolk is full of great attractions for children, especially outdoor adventure parks.
BeWILDerwood
BeWILDerwood is an imaginative outdoor adventure park set in woodland near the Norfolk Broads. Kids can explore treehouses, rope bridges, zip lines and giant slides while following magical storytelling trails through the forest.
ROARR! Dinosaur Adventure
Perfect for young dinosaur fans, ROARR! Dinosaur Adventure is a fun-filled theme park packed with prehistoric-themed attractions. Children can explore dinosaur trails, adventure playgrounds, splash zones, huge soft play and interactive exhibits.
Sandringham
Sandringham is a lovely option for a family day out if you want to enjoy the estate without paying for entry. The Royal Parkland is free to access all year round, with only parking to pay for. There are walks, woodland paths and a large children’s play area,aking it an easy place to spend a few hours.
Visiting the famous Sandringham House and formal Gardens is a separate ticketed experience.
Snettingsham Park
Snettisham Park is a brilliant family day out in Norfolk, combining a working farm with plenty to keep children entertained. The highlight has to be the 45-minute deer safari, where you travel by tractor and covered trailer to meet the impressive red deer herd. You also get to hand-feed them while learning all about the animals and the farm.
There’s plenty to do beyond the safari too, including the farmyard, animal encounters, walking trails and a children’s outdoor play area. Depending on the season, children can also enjoy activities such as bottle-feeding lambs, collecting eggs and pony rides.
With a tearoom, picnic area and open countryside to explore, you can spend a few hours at Snettisham Park. The deer safari is also something a bit different!
East London Girl: Best things to do in Norfolk
No Comments