Norfolk, located in the East of England, is a captivating blend of beautiful landscapes, historical landmarks, and stunning coastline. This county offers a perfect getaway for tourists seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and discovery. From the scenic Broads to medieval architecture and charming seaside towns, Norfolk has something for everyone. Here are seven must-visit attractions that showcase the best of this enchanting region, along with accommodation and café suggestions to enhance your stay.
1. The Norfolk Broads
The Norfolk Broads is a network of rivers and lakes, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity. The Broads are ideal for boating, fishing and wildlife spotting. Rent a boat for a leisurely cruise through the waterways, where you’ll encounter picturesque villages, historic windpumps, and an array of bird species. Notable Broads include Wroxham Broad, Hickling Broad, and Ranworth Broad. The tranquil waters and lush greenery make this a perfect spot for photography and nature walks.
Accommodation: Hotel Wroxham – Located right on the waterfront in Wroxham, this hotel offers stunning views of the Broads, comfortable rooms, and an on-site restaurant. It’s an ideal base for exploring the waterways.
Café: The River Kitchen – Situated on the banks of the River Bure in Wroxham, this café offers a delightful menu of locally sourced food, perfect for a relaxing meal with a view of the river.
2. Norwich Cathedral
Norwich Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe, stands as a testament to over 900 years of history. Founded by Bishop Herbert de Losinga in 1096, the cathedral was completed in the early 12th century. This awe-inspiring structure features a stunning Romanesque interior, beautiful stained glass windows, and an impressive cloister. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the cathedral’s history, explore the tranquil cathedral grounds, and even climb the spire for panoramic views of Norwich. The cathedral also hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year, adding a contemporary touch to its ancient charm.
Accommodation: The Maids Head Hotel – Situated in the heart of Norwich, this historic hotel offers elegant rooms and is just a short walk from Norwich Cathedral. The Maids Head Hotel blends modern comfort with historic charm, making it a perfect stay for exploring the city.
Café: The Refectory Café – Located within the cathedral grounds, this café offers a peaceful setting for enjoying light meals, snacks, and beverages, with views of the beautiful cloister and gardens.
3. Sandringham Estate
The Sandringham Estate, the private residence of the British Royal Family, offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle. The estate’s expansive grounds include beautifully manicured gardens, woodlands, and a stunning lake. The Sandringham House, open to the public during certain times of the year, showcases an impressive collection of royal memorabilia, art, and furnishings. Visitors can also explore the museum and enjoy a relaxing walk through the gardens and parkland, which are especially picturesque during the spring and summer months.
Accommodation: The Ffolkes – Located a short drive from Sandringham Estate, this charming inn offers comfortable rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and an excellent restaurant serving locally sourced food.
Café: Sandringham Café & Coffee Shop – Situated within the visitor centre at Sandringham Estate, this café offers a variety of hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages, making it a convenient stop during your visit.
4. Deep History Coast
The Deep History Coast is a fascinating stretch of coastline in North Norfolk, renowned for its rich prehistoric heritage. This area is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Europe, where evidence of the earliest humans in Britain has been discovered. The Deep History Coast Discovery Trail offers visitors an immersive experience with interactive information points and augmented reality experiences that bring the ancient past to life.
The coastline reveals remnants of the past that date back hundreds of thousands of years, including fossils and artifacts from different prehistoric periods. Among the most notable discoveries are the footprints of early humans, specifically Homo Antecessor, an extinct hominin species that lived approximately 850,000 to 950,000 years ago. These footprints, found on Happisburgh Beach, are the oldest known human footprints outside of Africa and provide crucial insights into the migration and lifestyle of early humans in Europe.
One of the most famous finds along the Deep History Coast is the West Runton mammoth. Discovered in 1990, the West Runton mammoth is the largest and most complete example of the species found in Britain. The mammoth dates back around 600,000 years and provides invaluable information about the environment and climate of the time. The well-preserved skeleton includes parts of the skull, tusks, and limbs, offering a rare glimpse into the Pleistocene era. Visitors can learn more about this incredible find at local museums, which often feature exhibitions dedicated to the mammoth and other prehistoric discoveries from the region.
Accommodation: The Pheasant Hotel – Nestled in the countryside near Kelling, this elegant hotel offers luxurious rooms, beautiful gardens, and easy access to the Deep History Coast. It’s a perfect retreat after a day of exploring.
Café: Smallsticks Café – Located at Cart Gap, Happisburgh, this charming café offers delicious homemade meals and a warm atmosphere, making it an ideal stop after a day of exploring the Deep History Coast and hunting for fossils.
5. Blickling Estate
The Blickling Estate, managed by the National Trust, is a stunning Jacobean mansion surrounded by picturesque gardens and parkland. The estate is steeped in history, with connections to Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII. Visitors can explore the beautifully furnished rooms, extensive library, and fascinating exhibitions that delve into the estate’s rich past. The gardens, with their formal parterres, ancient yew hedges, and vibrant flower displays, are a delight to explore in every season. The estate also offers various walking and cycling routes, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Accommodation: The Saracen’s Head – Located in the nearby village of Wolterton, this boutique hotel offers charming rooms and an excellent restaurant. It’s conveniently situated for visiting Blickling Estate and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Café: The Farmyard Café – Situated within the Blickling Estate, this café offers a variety of hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages, with outdoor seating available for enjoying views of the gardens.
6. Cromer Pier
Attraction: Cromer Pier, a traditional seaside pier, is a beloved Norfolk landmark that captures the charm of British coastal towns. The pier is home to the Pavilion Theatre, which hosts the famous Cromer Pier Show, a traditional variety show featuring comedy, music, and dance. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pier, take in the stunning sea views, and indulge in classic seaside treats like fish and chips and ice cream. Cromer itself is known for its fresh crab, so be sure to sample this local delicacy while you’re there. The town also offers a lovely beach, quaint shops, and historic architecture, making it a perfect day-trip destination. It also has an artwork by Banksy on one of its beach groynes.
Accommodation: The Red Lion Hotel – Located directly on the seafront in Cromer, this historic hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea views, a traditional bar, and a restaurant serving delicious local seafood.
Café: The Rocket House Café – Located near Cromer Pier, this café offers spectacular sea views, a range of light meals, and an excellent selection of cakes and beverages. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery.
7. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts
Attraction: The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, located on the University of East Anglia campus in Norwich, is a world-class museum and art gallery. The centre houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts, spanning from ancient civilizations to contemporary works, speialising in ethnic art from around the world. The striking modernist building, designed by renowned architect Norman Foster, is an attraction in itself and is used in the Avenger movie franchise. Visitors can explore the diverse exhibitions, participate in workshops and events, and enjoy the beautiful sculpture park surrounding the centre. The Sainsbury Centre offers a unique blend of art, architecture, and nature, providing a rich cultural experience for all.
Accommodation: The Assembly House – This luxurious hotel in Norwich offers elegant rooms and a fine dining restaurant. It’s conveniently located for visiting the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts and exploring the city.
Café: Modern Life Café – Situated within the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, this café offers a variety of hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages, providing a relaxing spot to enjoy a meal or a drink before or after exploring the exhibitions.
Getting to Norfolk
Norfolk is easily accessible by various modes of transport. By car, major roads such as the A11 and A47 connect Norfolk to London and other major cities. Train services from London Liverpool Street to Norwich offer a fast and comfortable journey, taking around two hours. For those traveling by air, Norwich International Airport provides connections to several UK and European destinations. Once in Norfolk, a robust network of buses and local trains makes it easy to explore the county’s attractions.
Norfolk’s diverse attractions offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the serene waters of the Broads, marvelling at the grandeur of Norwich Cathedral, or enjoying the royal elegance of Sandringham Estate, there’s something to captivate every visitor. The Deep History Coast offers a fascinating journey into the prehistoric past, with significant discoveries like the Homo Antecessor footprints and the West Runton mammoth. These finds provide a unique glimpse into the region’s ancient history and the lives of the creatures and humans that once roamed this area.
The Blickling Estate provides a glimpse into the opulent lives of the English aristocracy, while Cromer Pier brings the nostalgic charm of a traditional seaside resort. The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts offers a rich cultural experience with its extensive art collections and striking architecture. With its unique blend of attractions, Norfolk promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.
Photo by Steven Winter on Unsplash
