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Explore the seven areas of Norfolk – each one offering a superb range of things to do and see, attractions and accommodation…

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Whether this is your first time planning a vacation to Norfolk or your tenth time,  we are here to help you with ideas, itineraries and guides to make sure you make the most out of your time off in Norfolk. 

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Norfolk Travel Guide

Home to futuristic art and a strong marine heritage, Norfolk is the unspoilt metropolis and undiscovered gem of the Southern US.

Positioned on the glistening shores of the Elizabeth River, Norfolk is most well-known for its maritime presence and operational NATO base. And yet, situated on the stunning waterfront of Virginia, this highly underappreciated city is one of the best up-and-coming holiday destinations in the Southern US.  

As one of the oldest urban areas in the state, Norfolk is the perfect location for history lovers who are eager to learn about the culture behind the ‘Old Dominion’, as the city is locally known. This is complemented by a picturesque riverside district, one of the city’s most charming features. Consequently, the region boasts a rich naval heritage, with a multitude of nautically decadent attractions for any boating fanatic. 

Similarly, Norfolk also heralds a bustling downtown area that possesses restaurants and bars galore, allowing visitors to immerse in an array of diverse cultures which reflects the melting pot of ideas that the city encapsulates.  

The flourishing city further showcases a spectacular arts scene, with over 50 galleries presenting a plethora of craftsmanship, from conventional fine art to the wondrous spectacle of glass art. The Chrysler Museum of Art in particular is a must-see for those who want to the get lost in art innovations from across the world.  

As a hidden treasure, Norfolk is positioned as the blossoming centre to some of the US’s best maritime marvels. Accompanied by a deep appreciation of different cultures, it would be a shame to miss. 

TOURISM INSIGHTS: VISITNORFOLK

VisitNorfolk is the place to go for planning your trip around the hidden treasure of Norfolk, placing this stunning destination on the map of Southern US hotspots. CEO, Kurt Krause , tells us why this historically diverse city is on the rise.

Q&A WITH KURT KRAUSE, CEO, VISITNORFOLK

Can you talk us through the origins of VisitNorfolk and its ongoing vision?

Kurt Krause, CEO (KK): VisitNorfolk is a non-profit organisation that positively promotes the City of Norfolk’s unique experiences and expansive amenities to residents and visitors, as the best city of its kind to start, study and stay. Our mission is to elevate Norfolk, Virginia, from a “nice to see” destination to a “necessity” destination by working with our community to better share the stories and accomplishments of our locals, all while highlighting what the city has to offer our visitors. 

Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Norfolk?

KK: Norfolk’s unique positioning on the East Coast puts two-thirds of the US population within easy driving distance. Once you arrive, you will be welcomed into a city of mermaids anchored by a vibrant downtown and steeped in maritime history. Home to the world’s largest naval base and the North American headquarters for NATO, Norfolk is known for its Navy presence and so much more. The city’s rich and proudly diverse culture flows through its museums, burgeoning performing and visual arts scenes, and fabulous festivals, giving visitors an abundance of activities to do. 

What kind of travellers does your region appeal to most?  

KK: We welcome all travellers looking to chart their course and experience our beautiful city. With a wide range of activities from kayaking along the Elizabeth River to exploring our beautiful glass art in the Chrysler Museum of Art, Norfolk is perfect for families, couples, solo travellers and anyone looking to enjoy all the city has to offer. 

How have you worked towards putting Norfolk on the map for potential visitors?

KK: Part of what makes Norfolk special is the people and natural attributes that make up the city. Being home to the largest naval base in the world, you will find people from all over the globe that decide to settle and open their own businesses. There are over 600 independently-owned restaurants in the city that boast big flavours. To help visitors gain an understanding of the great cuisine that Norfolk offers, the video series “City With Bite” was born as a new way to highlight the culinary scene in an engaging way.  

The arts and entertainment scene is also worth mentioning, particularly since Norfolk is home to the largest collection of glass art, which is free for visitors to see. Travellers can stay at a boutique hotel with glass art, visit the Chrysler Museum of Art, see pieces throughout the ages, or get a full immersion by blowing a glass piece themselves at the Perry Glass Studio.

What is Norfolk’s most underrated attraction?

KK: Something incredibly unique about Norfolk is its maritime history and its role in building and shaping our city as we know it today. While exploring downtown, visitors will be surprised to see the Battleship Wisconsin situated at the end of the street. Located next to our maritime discovery centre, Nauticus, the battleship and Nauticus itself provide visitors with an immersive look into our maritime industry and how vital it is. The newly renovated third floor features Aquaticus, a permanent exhibit devoted to young visitors that encourages experience-based play and discovery with a fun, engaging underwater theme. Then, continue through Norfolk in Time, a highly interactive exhibition weaving stories of history, culture, science, technology and industry to showcase Norfolk’s unique resilience in the face of continual challenge and change.  

What does Norfolk have to offer in terms of sustainable or eco-friendly travel experiences?

KK: Whether you’re aiming to reduce your carbon footprint as you travel or are interested in supporting eco-friendly businesses, there are many reasons to keep sustainability at the forefront these days. The City of Norfolk’s Environmental Sustainability and Climate Action Team is focused on several key initiatives to combat climate change and its impacts. These include advancing climate justice, facilitating green living, and greening city operations. We are proud to have incredible attractions like the Norfolk Botanical Gardens, which is undergoing a major renovation to better improve its sustainability efforts, along with the Elizabeth River Trail (ERT), Norfolk’s 10.5 mile-long walkable and bikeable pathway. Efforts led by the Elizabeth River Trail Foundation aim to expand, enhance and transform the ERT as a recreational, social and educational destination that improves environmental awareness, neighbourhood connectivity and innovative economic development.

Could you tell us more about the influence of Native American culture, and how it is showcased in the region’s tourist industry?

KK: Norfolk has a long history, and that history has shaped the city it is today. We try to recognise those that lived on this land before us as often as we can through land acknowledgments. We are continuously evolving and working to better represent Native American culture in Norfolk. We continue to grow and strengthen our relationships with the active native tribes throughout different projects. 

How is the city celebrating Juneteenth this year?

KK: Every year, various organisations throughout Norfolk host Juneteenth events. Juneteenth in the Park is an annual event with a focus on career and professional development. This educational festival is designed to help those in our community with on-site interviews, health, wellness and finance education sessions, live music, presentations and networking opportunities all along Norfolk’s waterfront. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the day and the growth of the community. We also encourage visitors and locals alike to take the time to explore our city and learn from its history through the Waterways to Freedom. This self-guided tour takes you back in time to see how Norfolk was involved in the Underground Railroad.

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

Sleep:  

FOR SAILING TO THE BLISSFUL LAND OF NOD…  

Just a short stroll away from the beautiful Elizabeth River, the Hilton Norfolk The MAIN Hotel be top of your list for a scenic stay. Providing the perfect base for your travelling adventures across the city, the Hilton has a wide variety of rooms to suit your holiday needs, with a highly luxurious and affordable range of suites. Furthermore, with access to a rooftop bar, you and your friends can be at the height of sophistication as you look over the shimmering water, before passing a curated selection of art on the way to a delectable range of dining choices.

PERRY GLASS STUDIO IN FOCUS

One of the most spectacular and widely regarded sectors of Norfolk is its thriving arts scene, presented in avenues both new and old. More than just an art studio, Perry Glass Studio is at the cutting edge of inventive art pieces, as thousands of visitors flock to blow their own glass at the only facility of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic region. As a subsector of the highly reputable Chrysler Art Museum, the Perry Glass Studio highlights the wonders of glass art, as it provides visitors with the opportunity to see how such marvels are created.  

Visitors can witness the futuristic side to this beautiful tradition through the studio’s performance nights, creating vibrant spectacles of colour. Additionally, for those who are more creative, the studio provides the exciting opportunity to bend and build your own glass creation, through glass blowing workshops which cater to everybody, from first-time glass blowers to masters of the art. In this other-worldly creative session, visitors can learn a variety of processes including glassblowing, fusing, flameworking, coldworking and neon. One particularly fascinating event is the ‘Glass After Dark’ workshop, where lively music and art come together once a month, for a night of visionary creation. The evening showcases emerging artists in the local music scene, working alongside world-acclaimed artists in glass blowing, to create an unbeatable atmosphere which encapsulates artistic excellence.  

Thus, be sure to experience this wondrous art form as it bends and twists the limits of what art can do, to create something truly spellbinding.

LANDMARK ATTRACTIONS

Norfolk Botanical Gardens

At the heart of Norfolk lies the beautifully bountiful Botanical Gardens, encompassing an emerald blanket of 175 acres. Spilt into seven themes, the 60 different gardens have a stunning view for everybody, regardless of season, taste or age. This is unmissable for those with or without a green thumb as the garden holds thousands of varieties of plants and flowers, creating remarkable natural scenes.  

Chrysler Museum of Art   

As one of Norfolk’s most cherished and prized tourist attractions, you would be remiss not to visit the Chrysler Museum of Art when in the city. Having been founded in 1933, it houses some of the most unmissable pieces of art, as visitors can feast their eyes on the more than 30,000 displays from numerous different mediums and areas of the world.

Neon District  

The NEON (new energy of Norfolk) District has an eclectic selection of murals and is becoming the secret treasure of Norfolk’s art collection. With no interest in staying hidden, the public art murals are bold and daring, flooding the local neighbourhood with colour. As street art, it is openly accessible to everybody, from intricate, tiny paintings to huge bursting murals, so you never know what you might find.

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

When travelling across the city, it is important to take advantage of the numerous transportation opportunities that are offered to tourists and residents alike. Once travellers arrive fresh off a plane at Norfolk International Airport, they can enjoy the convenience of an airport located just from downtown Norfolk.  

To quickly zip around the city, Norfolk offers a bikeshare programme which provides an environmentally friendly way to see its sites, through perfectly planned bike lanes and routes. Furthermore, to truly see the wonders of the Elizabeth River, Norfolk has a world-class waterside marina at the core of the downtown district, which lets you take a relaxing Rover Cruise or City Cruises.  

The city also provides comprehensive taxi links so you can catch a ride with ease, particularly with the vital aid of the Downtown Attractions Map that lets you browse through Norfolk’s attractions instantly. Finally, everything visitors may need to get around can be found in the Amtrak Station, a 3,500 square foot station that provides visitor information, a bus stop, short/long term parking, bike racks and much more.

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Norfolk travel guide

Norfolk tourism | norfolk guide, you're going to love norfolk.

With a population of 242 803, Norfolk is a must-see destination in Virginia, United States. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Norfolk deserves at least 2 full days for you to see its main sights.

Where to Eat in Norfolk

Downtown is the neighborhood with the most restaurants in Norfolk. These include popular favorites such as Byrd and Baldwin Bros. Steakhouse (116 Brooke Avenue), Glass Light (201 Granby St) and Leone's (455 Granby St). If you’re looking for affordable options, Texas de Brazil - Norfolk (300 Monticello Ave, Space #147) and Stripers Waterside (333 Waterside Dr) are great picks.

Most popular restaurants in Norfolk

When to visit norfolk.

Looking for warm weather? Then head to Norfolk in July, when the average temperature is 78.8 °F, and the highest can go up to 86 °F. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 32 °F, with an average temperature of 42.8 °F. You’re likely to see more rain in July, when precipitation is around 5.8″. In contrast, November is usually the driest month of the year in Norfolk, with an average rainfall of 2.9″.

How to Get to Norfolk

When flying to Norfolk, you’ll arrive at Norfolk Airport (ORF), which is located 9 km from the city center. Airlines that fly from the United States to Norfolk include Spirit Airlines, American Airlines and Delta. The shortest domestic flight to Norfolk departs from Boston and takes around 1h 37m.

Amtrak is the only carrier operating train routes to Norfolk. The train station in Norfolk is called Norfolk, and is located 1.5 km from the city center.

Another option to get to Norfolk is to pick up a car rental from Washington, D.C., which is about 238 km from Norfolk. You’ll find branches of Hertz and Sixt, among others, in Washington, D.C..

Several bus lines operate bus routes to Norfolk, including FlixBus, Greyhound and Busbud. From Newark, the bus ride to Norfolk takes 692 km and will cost you around $50. From Raleigh, the ticket costs about $46 for a journey of 772 km. The most popular bus station is Norfolk Best Square, located 7 km from downtown Norfolk. Norfolk Brambleton & Landing is also a commonly used station, and is 1.1 km from the city center.

Airports near Norfolk

Airlines serving norfolk, where to stay in norfolk.

Average rates range from around $276 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to $160 and up for a 5-star experience. If you’re on a budget, well-reviewed accommodations include Tru by Hilton Norfolk Airport and Hampton Inn & Suites Norfolk-Airport . There are also lots of vacation rental options in Norfolk, with prices from $56 to $1,640 per night. Ocean View is the neighborhood with the highest amount of rentals to choose from. On average, vacation rentals in Norfolk are about 38% more expensive than a hotel room in the city.

Downtown - Here you’ll find travelers’ favorites such as Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, Autograph Collection , Hilton Norfolk The Main and Courtyard by Marriott Norfolk Downtown . The average nightly price for a double room in Downtown is $117.

Where to stay in popular areas of Norfolk

Most booked hotels in norfolk, renting a car in norfolk.

Renting a car in Norfolk costs $63 per day, on average, or $126 if you want to rent if for 2 days. Alamo, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Thrifty are the agencies with the best reviews in the city. The most popular location to rent a car in Norfolk is the Dollar branch at 2200 Norview Ave, which is 9 km from the city center.

It’s generally cheaper to rent your vehicle outside the airport: locations in the city are around 2% cheaper than airport locations in Norfolk.

Expect to pay $3.90 per gallon in Norfolk (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $46.79 and $62.38. The most frequently booked car type in Norfolk is Compact (Nissan Rogue or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Mini rental cars (Smart Fortwo or similar) are, on average, 67% cheaper than other rental car types in the city.

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Norfolk Travel Guide

Why visit norfolk.

Beaches and watersports abound in Norfolk, located where the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean meet. Not up for swimming, fishing, or kayaking when you visit Norfolk? Check out the collections at the Chrysler Museum of Art, or enjoy dining and drinking in the new Waterside District. Norfolk also hosts nearly 100 festivals each year.

When to Visit Norfolk

Although summer is the most popular time to visit Norfolk thanks to its beaches, the city has plenty to offer visitors year-round. During the spring and fall you can enjoy numerous festivals, including the Virginia Beer Festival and the Norfolk In-Water Boat Show. And during the holidays, Norfolk plays host to a Christmas market.

Weather in Norfolk

Norfolk's average summer high temperatures are typically in the 80s Fahrenheit, with lows in the 70s, and it can be humid. If you plan your Norfolk travel for the spring and fall, you'll find pleasant weather with less humidity. Winters can be cold, with lows in the 30s, but snow is relatively rare (with an average of just five inches a year).

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written by Michelle Bhatia

updated 14.03.2023

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.

1. Visit the glorious beach at Holkham Bay

2. learn about history and royalty at sandringham estate, 3. enjoying boat rides in the broads national park - one of the best things to do in norfolk, 4. wander around norwich, 5. spot grey seals, 6. have some seaside fun at wells-next-the-sea, 7. discover a great foodie scene, 8. visiting bewilderwood adventure park - one of the best things to do in norfolk with kids, 9. get amazed at holkham hall, 10. go bird-watching, 11. admire the architectural splendour of norwich cathedral, 12. enjoy great cycling routes, 13. get outdoor thrills in thetford forest.

• 14. Discover Norfolk's Pretty Villages

15. North Norfolk Railway

16. bure valley railway, 17. norfolk coast path, 18. west runton mammoth, 19. great yarmouth hippodrome circus, 20. norfolk lavender fields, 21. pensthorpe natural park, 22. gressenhall farm.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Norfolk & Suffolk , your essential guide for visiting Norfolk .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for England, created by local experts

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Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

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 else is doing the rowing?

It’s a great way to get up close with the wetland wildlife and, as Canadian canoes can carry up to three adults, it’s an ideal activity for the whole family.

Boating on the River Bure on the Norfolk Broads © Brendan M. Allis/Shutterstock

Norwich is a small city that packs a lot of things to do in Norfolk. Along its narrow alleys and streets are splendid medieval churches and historic houses – reminders of its prosperous past – a lively market, and an array of great independent shops, cafés and restaurants. There are museums, art galleries, even a castle. Plus, of course, there’s the city’s major landmark – the stunning Romanesque cathedral.

On your wander around the city be sure to climb the steep, cobbled Elm Hill to admire the wonderfully preserved 16th- 18th-century houses. Museums worth a visit include the Museum of Norwich , for a history of the city, and the Castle Museum and Art Gallery . For art lovers, the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts is one of the best reasons to visit Norfolk. Standouts include works by Picasso, Henry Moore and Giacometti.

Where to stay in Norwich:

• For families: Holiday Inn Norwich City
• For price and quality: Marlborough Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Norwich

Cobbled streets and pretty houses alongside the river Yare in Norwich © Helen Hotson/Shutterstock

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Where better to go seal spotting than at the sand and shingle spit of Blakeney Point, home to the largest seal colony in England? With more than 3,000 common and grey seals now born each year, this is the prime spot to see the adorable pups basking on the sands at low tide. From March until October seal-spotting ferry trips run from Morston quay.

When tides and conditions are right, stop at Blakeney Point Nature Reserve – so trip times can vary from an hour to two and a half hours. Bring binoculars to see the animals up close, as well as for spotting the dozen or so species of seabirds, which settle there in summer. There’s also a large colony of seals at Horsey, where you can see them bobbing about in the water, and you may even catch sight of them in Wells harbour.

Grey seal pups at Blakeney Point © Alan de Witt/Shutterstock

A visit to Wells-next-the-sea is one of the best things to do in Norfolk. It offers the perfect combo of lovely beach and small, but lively resort town, which keeps the whole family happy. As at Holkham Bay, the beach is a broad sweep of sand fringed by pinewood dunes. In front of the pine trees stands a row of beach huts in colourful candy shades, reminiscent of those sweet sticks of rock, a feature of every British seaside shop.

Low tide is a child’s playground, with seashells to gather and decorate sandcastles with, and shallow pools of seawater in which to splash about. If you’re having a snoozy sunbathe, though, watch out for the incoming tide: it creeps in quickly and many have had to hurriedly grab belongings and scramble for drier ground.

This tailor-made walking holiday on the Jurassic Coast is one of the many ways to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the coasts of England. Walks range from easy to challenging. 6 days walking are included in this itinerary, as is an extensive pre-program in London and a last night back in the capital.

Beach huts at Wells-next-the-Sea © DavidYoung/Shutterstock

Cafes and restaurants in Britain’s seaside areas often fall short on the food stakes, failing to make good use of the fresh fish close at hand, or the shellfish that can be foraged on local shores. But you’ll find many of Norfolk’s coastal pubs and restaurants have raised their game. In fact, Norfolk, in general, has come on in leaps and bounds.

You can put together a delicious picnic from high street delis and farmers’ markets, such as Swaffham and Creake Abbey. Or enjoy a modern spin on traditional dishes in gastropubs, and sample fine dining in hotel restaurants.

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Morston Hall even has a Michelin-starred chef at the helm and features Blakeney lobster and Morston mussels on the menu. But for a simply-cooked fish supper and stunning views of sunsets over the marshland, head to the White Horse at Brancaster Staithe. For deli and farm shop produce, stop at the award-winning Picnic Fayre , in Cley-next-the-Sea.

Dressed Cromer crab © Jamie Rogers/Shutterstock

Anyone with kids has probably spent many an hour standing in a crowded playground, watching their little ones wait their turn for the one and only slide, wondering when they can declare it’s home time. At BeWilderwood the experience couldn’t be more different.

This magical woodland playground is a day out of fun for the whole family, with treehouses to clamber about in, swaying aerial ropewalks and awesome zip wires, set in 50 acres of forest and marshland. And there are no plastic slides or swings in sight – it’s all made from sustainable wood.

Creator and owner Tom Blofeld has developed a wonderful fantasy adventure. This includes magical woodland folk, such as the Boggles, the BeWILDerbats and the Twiggles – all characters from his delightful book A Boggle at BeWILDerwood. And if children tire of the outdoor fun, there are also storytelling sessions and crafts activities.

If you need more convincing, BeWILDerwood is one of our magical places to visit with children before they grow up .

Treehouse fun at BeWilderwood © BeWilderwood

Sitting rather imposingly within the extensive parkland of Holkham estate, which also includes the wonderful Holkham Beach and nature reserve, is 18th-century Holkham Hall . Behind the formal, Palladian exterior, is a grand entrance hall, complete with colonnade – a nod to ancient Rome – and statues of Greek and Roman Gods.

The house was built between 1734 and 1764 for Thomas Coke, first Earl of Leicester, and his taste is reflected in the opulent decor and artworks throughout the array of plush state rooms. There are sumptuous wall hangings, 17th-century tapestries and paintings by Old Masters, such as Gainsborough, Van Dyck and Rubens.

The grounds include a deer park, rolling lawns and a walled garden, which is the site of an annual plant fair in September. You can hire a bike to explore the parkland or hop aboard a rowing boat and relax on the lake.

Holkham Hall, Norfolk © Lesley Rigg/Shutterstock

When it comes to bird life, Norfolk is king. The wetlands, woodlands, heathland and coast offer the ideal habitat year-round for a variety of local and migratory birds. There are hundreds of nature reserves, often including first-rate visitor centres and observation hides, with details on guided walks and the latest sightings.

Enthusiastic bird spotters will delight in the Norfolk Broads. It’s a haven for birdlife, including grebes, herons and kingfishers, with Hickling Broad’s reedbeds and watermeadows home to bitterns, bearded tits and marsh harriers.

At coastal Cley-next-the-sea you can spot redshank, avocet, spoonbills and terns, among others. The reserve’s excellent visitor centre has a café with a glorious panoramic view over the coast. It also provides telescopes for customers – for those wishing to combine a relaxing cuppa with their bird spotting pursuits.

Common Kingfisher at the RSPB Nature Reserve, Snettisham © tony mills/Shutterstock

There’s no doubt that Norwich Cathedral is impressive. For a start, there are more than 900-years of history to discover. Then there’s that soaring spire, the tallest in Britain after Salisbury, and those elegant arched cloisters – including the wonderfully preserved monastic cloister, the largest in England.

Adding to the splendour is the magnificent fan-vaulted ceiling with its intricate and decorative roof bosses, depicting stories from the Bible. Other highlights of this fine Romanesque cathedral include elaborate wooden carvings behind the organ screen, showing medieval scenes of strife, evil and sins. There’s also a fine medieval painted panel, Despenser Retable , in St Luke’s chapel, created around 1380.

Norwich Cathedral © GordonBell/Shutterstock

With no hills to speak of, cycling is one of the best things to do in Norfolk. And a great way to take in the gorgeous countryside and coastline, with all those historic towns and pretty little country villages dotted along the way. Whether you want to just leisurely pootle on two wheels for the day, or get serious with a multi-day excursion, there are traffic-free cycle paths, off-road trails and quiet lanes to explore.

• The Marriott's Way is a 26-mile green walking and cycling route which follows a disused railway line from Norwich to Aylsham. With its wide paths it's great for kids to get pedalling too. The flat terrain of the ancient Peddars Way is perfect for really stretching your legs. It runs from Thetford to Hunstanton, passing through woodland, farmland and villages, such as Castle Acre, a great stopping-off point.
• If you really want to clock up the miles, The Norfolk Coastal Cycleway, part of the Sustrans National Cycle Network , runs from King’s Lynn to Great Yarmouth passing through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are also picturesque trails in Thetford Forest and around the Broads.
• Cycle Breaks offers self-guided cycling holidays. They give you the freedom to enjoy the ride unencumbered by luggage – as it's waiting for you at each accommodation stop. All you have to do is follow the map – and not get lost.

Cycle Path in Norfolk © Dani Berszt/Shutterstock

It’s easy to get away from it all in Britain’s largest pine forest. In an area known as the Brecks, it straddles the border of north Suffolk and south Norfolk and is made up of mostly heathland and pine trees, with an abundance of walking, cycling and horseriding trails to explore. If you don’t have your own bike, you can hire one at Bike Art . Cycle trails range from the family-friendly to those for seasoned cyclists, such as the Black Trail.

For a different kind of fun on two wheels, you can hire a Segway at Go Ape . These can handle all terrain, which means you can have fun tackling the bumpiest woodland tracks. But it’s the thrills and tree-top action involving zip wires, rope ladders and swings that Go Ape is best known for. As well as courses suitable for young kids, there are high-wire, adrenaline-inducing adventures for more confident apes.

Thetford forest © Samantha Noble/Shutterstock

14. Discover Norfolk's Pretty Villages

Norfolk has more than its fair share of picture-postcard villages. Charming rose-clad cottages, historic buildings and pretty market squares, in stunning coastal or countryside settings, are the norm.

There are several contenders for star of the show. Castle Acre, near Swaffham, has an assortment of flint and brick cottages, as well as the remains of a Norman castle and priory – one of the best preserved monastic sites in the country. While the nature reserve of Cley-next-the-Sea is on every bird watchers’ radar, the village itself is also a top attraction.

Along with the requisite quaintness, it boasts lovely little shops, the 18th-century Cley Windmill , now an attractive guesthouse, and the medieval Church of St Margaret, which has pride of place in the village.

If you like strolling through small, picturesque streets, explore our guide to the prettiest Cotswolds villages to visit .

Outside of London, England is known for its' countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities on this tailor-made refreshing English countryside break .

The ruins of Castle Acre Priory © Richard Bowden/Shutterstock

Never a big player, the Midland & Great Northern Joint Railway served much of Norfolk and Lincolnshire from its establishment in 1893 through to nationalization in the 1940s. Though most of its routes were closed not long afterwards. One of the company’s branch lines ran southwest from Sheringham to Holt, and this five miles of track was adopted by the volunteer enthusiasts of the North Norfolk Railway (NNR) in 1965.

The first vintage steam trains were chugging down the “ Poppy Line ” two years later. The NNR is now a firm fixture of the Norfolk tourist scene. Its steam and vintage diesel trains rumble through the countryside and stop at several stations, including Sheringham, Weybourne and Holt. If you book ahead you can have lunch on board while admiring the view, or indulge in a cream tea.

All aboard a Norfolk steam train © Graham Corney/Shutterstock

The market town of Aylsham is not really part of the Broads, but it is the terminal for the Bure Valley Railway from Wroxham. It’s a pleasant enough place, and like most Norfolk towns, life revolves around the marketplace, home to a twice-weekly market and overlooked by the Black Boys Hotel.

Five minutes’ walk south from the market place, Aylsham’s Station is home to the Bure Valley Railway . An old-fashioned mini (15in gauge) train line that runs from Aylsham down to Wroxham in the heart of the Broads, taking in Brampton, Buxton and Coltishall along the way.

Engines are either steam- or diesel-powered, and the nine-mile trip to Wroxham takes 45 minutes. If you don’t want to take the train you can walk or cycle the Bure Valley Path, which shadows the rail line – and the river – all the way.

Bure Valley steam train coming in to Wroxham railway © Shutterstock

Despite not being rugged or wild, Norfolk and Suffolk have become a popular walking destination due to their gentle, rolling landscapes, long coastline, diverse birdlife, and vast skies. The region's tourist offices offer details of local rambles, which are easily accomplished in a day and require little physical demand as the footpaths are clearly marked.

This guide provides general details of local walks, as well as access to one of England's busiest National Trails, the Peddars Way/Norfolk Coast Path, which separates into two clearly defined sections. The second section, the Norfolk Coast Path, covers 83 miles and follows the coast from Holme-next-the-Sea to Hopton-on-Sea, via Cromer, with the 45-mile stretch from Holme to Cromer being the most popular.

While only a minority of walkers undertake the entire trail, most opt for short hikes, especially along the Norfolk Coast Path, where the Coasthopper and Coastliner buses offer convenient public transport, making round trips relatively easy and practical.

Sand dunes where Norfolk Coast path National Trail from Barnham © Shutterstock

Dramatically poised on a high bluff, visiting Cromer resort should be on your list of things to do on Norfolk’s coast. Cromer has a lovely sandy beach, but it can get crowded. If you’re seeking a little more solitude, you may prefer the Runtons, just to the west of Cromer, before you reach Sheringham.

First up along the main coastal road, the A149, is East Runton, where narrow Beach Road cuts an unpromising route through a herd of static caravans before reaching a wide and sandy beach. In neighbouring West Runton, Water Lane serves a similar function. Forking off the A149 bound for another slab of sandy beach, but it’s a rather more pleasant route. There’s a smashing campsite here, too.

Great Yarmouth’s seafront stretches for about a mile north to south along Marine Parade and is a fairly predictable mix of B&Bs, amusement arcades and cheap restaurants, anchored by the Britannia Pier to the north and the Wellington Pier to the south.

Britain’s only surviving purpose-built circus building, the Hippodrome sits behind the seafront arcades, more than a century of spectacular summer shows behind it and still going strong. Owned for the past four decades by former pop musician and local boy Peter Jay, it hosts a variety of events, including the Great Yarmouth Summer Spectacular, whose high-class performers are worth coming to see even if you don’t like circuses.

The interior too is a gem, and there’s a small museum stocked with old props, posters and technical equipment that you can visit after attending any event.

Great Yarmouth Hippodrome Circus © Shutterstock

The north Norfolk coast pretty much ends (or begins) at Hunstanton, a bustling seaside resort positioned just where the coastline turns south to run alongside the wide and stumpy Wash. The (now-defunct) railway reached here in 1862 and thereafter Hunstanton grew by leaps and bounds, sprouting scores of good-looking Victorian houses that are still a feature of the town.

At Heacham, just south of Hunstanton, a semi-suburban tangle of narrow streets lies just inland from the army of static caravans that line up along the Wash.

The main reason to visit Heacham today is Norfolk Lavender, a popular tourist attraction. The big pull is the lavender gardens and the lavender plant sales. Though there are also a couple of gift shops, a mini-zoo, a farm shop and a large, indoor play area for kids with slides, climbing frames, a maze and so forth.

Parallel lines of purple lavender blooms on healthy green stems in a field in Heacham, Norfolk © Shutterstock

Norfolk’s most popular nature reserve, Pensthorpe occupies a large slab of land and lagoon about two miles east of the centre of Fakenham. A network of footpaths negotiates most of the reserve, where waterfowl gather by the hundred and Norfolk’s birdlife is supplemented by (clipped-wing) imports from around the world.

One part of the reserve is dedicated to declining species – there is a red squirrel hutch and a corncrake breeding programme – and there are also several themed gardens. If you like things a little wilder, there are bird hides on the edge of Pensthorpe where you can observe waterfowl in a less constrained environment.

If you are looking for more destinations in England with stunning nature this tailor-made trip to Northern Cornwall is what you need. Northern Cornwall is a hiker's paradise and this itinerary includes the most scenic parts. You will start your journey in London with some unique activities to get to know the city, before setting off on a 5-day walk across Cornwall.

Baby Flamingo at Pensthorpe park Norfolk © Shutterstock

About three miles north of Dereham is the Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse, one of only three Victorian workhouses currently open to the public. Though essentially a museum of rural life in Victorian England, its best displays focus on its time as a workhouse.

You can see the claustrophobic dungeon, where inmates were sent if they transgressed the rules, plus other rooms and artefacts. For example, the laundry, with its original steam-powered machines and drying racks; and the men’s exercise courtyard, complete with the inmates’ graffiti.

Outside you can visit the chapel and schoolroom, and mock-ups of village businesses – the post office, general store, blacksmith and suchlike. There’s also a really good adventure playground, and a working farm run on traditional lines by volunteers, with rare breeds, a barn full of old farm implements and the chance to jump on Gressenhall’s own tractor pulled trailer.

Where to stay in Norfolk:

• For couples: Cromer Country Club
• For village stays: The Harnser
• For peaceful stays: Heacham Manor Hotel
• For modern stays: Hotel Ocean
• For countryside stays: Sunset House Bed and Breakfast

Find more accommodation options to stay in Norfolk

Ready for a trip to Norfolk ? Check out the snapshot The Rough Guide to Norfolk & Suffolk or The Rough Guide to England .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to England without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Header image: Thurne Windmill on the Norfolk Broads @ yackers1/Shutterstock

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Big skies, sweeping beaches, windswept marshes, meandering inland waterways and pretty flint houses combine to great effect in Norfolk. They say the locals have 'one foot on the land, and one in the sea', and you’re never far from water here, whether it's beside the windmill-framed rivers of the tranquil Norfolk Broads or the wide, birdlife-rich sands of the shore. Inland, the bustling city of Norwich offers a fine castle and a cathedral, a lively market and some truly excellent places to sleep and eat.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Sandringham

Both monarchists and those bemused by the English system will have plenty to mull over here, at the Queen's country estate. It's set in 25 hectares of…

Norwich Cathedral

Norwich's most impressive landmark is a magnificent Anglican cathedral. Its barbed spire soars higher than any in England except Salisbury's, while the…

Norwich Castle

Crowning a hilltop overlooking central Norwich, this massive 12th-century castle is one of England’s best-preserved examples of Anglo-Norman military…

Museum of Norwich

Stay on your best behaviour: 14th-century Bridewell is a former house of correction, a 'prison for women, beggars and tramps'. Displays here explore…

Holkham National Nature Reserve

Beach, dunes, salt marsh, grazing marsh, pinewoods and scrub – a high number of habitats pack into 37-sq-km Holkham Reserve. It's easily accessed from the…

Blickling Hall

Largely remodelled in the 17th century for Sir Henry Hobart, James I's chief justice, Blickling Hall began life in the 11th century as a manor house and…

Houghton Hall

Built for Britain's first de-facto prime minister, Sir Robert Walpole, in 1730, Palladian-style Houghton Hall is worth seeing for the ornate staterooms…

Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts

The region's most important centre for the arts is housed in the first major public building by renowned architect Norman Foster. Its eclectic collections…

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Queen Elizabeth II is selling a gin made from ingredients from her country residence, Sandringham House, in Norfolk.

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Norfolk and beyond

• 1.3 Villages
• 2 Other destinations
• 3 Understand
• 5.1 By plane
• 5.2 By ferry
• 5.4.1 London, Essex and Suffolk to Norwich
• 5.4.2 London, Cambridge and Ely to King's Lynn
• 5.4.3 Stansted Airport, Cambridge and Ely to Norwich
• 5.4.4 Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield and Peterborough to Norwich
• 5.4.5 Lowestoft to Norwich
• 5.6 By bike
• 5.7 On foot
• 6.1 By train
• 6.4 By bicycle, or on foot
• 11.1 Television
• 12 Stay safe

Norfolk is a low-lying and predominantly rural county in eastern England , in the region known as East Anglia . It has county borders with Lincolnshire to the west, Cambridgeshire to the west and southwest, and with Suffolk to the south. Its North Sea coastline, including The Wash, forms one of the area's main highlights. The county capital is Norwich . Norfolk is the fifth largest county in England, with an area of 5,371 km 2 (2,074 sq mi) and a population of 816,500. The name 'Norfolk' is a portmanteau of the Old English North Folk , taken from the tribes of ancient Angles who lived there.

The Broads , one of the region's most popular tourist destinations, lie primarily within the county.

Settlements [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 52.6274 1.2881 1 Norwich

Towns [ edit ]

• 52.638 1.555 2 Acle
• 52.5174 1.017 3 Attleborough
• 52.79 1.256 4 Aylsham
• 52.931 1.302 5 Cromer
• 52.681 0.94 6 Dereham
• 52.3812 1.1079 7 Diss
• 52.8356 0.851 8 Fakenham
• 52.606 1.729 9 Great Yarmouth
• 52.4024 1.3 10 Harleston
• 52.9 1.09 11 Holt
• 52.93 0.48 12 Hunstanton & Old Hunstanton
• 52.7543 0.3976 13 King's Lynn
• 52.487 1.233 14 Long Stratton
• 52.821 1.387 15 North Walsham
• 52.71741 1.57432 16 Potter Heigham
• 52.94 1.213 17 Sheringham
• 52.77 1.511 18 Stalham and Sutton
• 52.652893 0.684285 19 Swaffham
• 52.41 0.74 20 Thetford
• 52.95 0.85 21 Wells-next-the-Sea
• 52.57 1.116 22 Wymondham

Villages [ edit ]

• 52.951 1.023 23 Blakeney
• 52.9525 1.043056 24 Cley next the Sea
• 52.94584 0.72815 25 Burnham Market
• 52.74856 0.93972 27 North Elmham
• 52.706 1.412 28 Wroxham and Hoveton

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 52.724167 1.640833 1 The Broads – a vast network of inland waterways, lakes and marshes, much of which is similar in status to a National Park .
• 52.933333 1.3 2 North Norfolk coastline, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• 52.4603 0.64797 3 Thetford Forest – a huge area of managed woodland. Activities within include walking, mountain biking, nature watching, husky dog sled racing. The area also contains a massive war memorial and a Centre Parcs holiday centre - both near Elveden, south of Thetford.

Understand [ edit ]

“ I’d like to tell you about a very special place. Whether you know it as “East Anglia”, “The Plump Peninsula”, “Home of the Broads”... “Albion’s Hind Quarters”, or quite simply “The Wales of the East”. This is Norfolk. ” — Alan Partridge, Welcome to the Places of My Life, 25 June 2012

For many in the United Kingdom , Norfolk is synonymous with the exploits of hapless (fictional!) local disc jockey, Alan Partridge. Yet, despite the antics of Steve Coogan's character, this is a county that prides itself on its unspoilt countryside and beautiful surroundings.

Norfolk has much to offer the traveller: from beautiful and historic Norwich to the scenic Norfolk Broads National Park , this is self-proclaimed 'Big Sky' country, and those from areas with smaller skies are certainly in for a treat.

• Visit Norfolk

Talk [ edit ]

In many rural communities of Norfolk you will find the rich, soft dialect that is only found in this corner of Britain . The accent and dialect is so broad, in fact, that you may have difficulty understanding it immediately, since consonants are heavily softened and syllables merge into one another. You'll hear a variety of accents and voices at one of the region's many weekly markets, such as that held every Saturday in Swaffham .

The BBC has a number of resources relating to the dialects of Britain , as part of its 'Voices' project. You can listen to sound recordings and find out more about the Norfolk dialect online.

The organisation 'Friends Of Norfolk Dialect' (FOND) records and promotes the regional dialect, publishing newsletters, organising events and collects material.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

52.675833 1.282778 1 Norwich Airport ( NWI  IATA ) is Norfolk's only airport, just to the north of Norwich city . KLM operates direct flights into Norwich from Amsterdam every day, with connections from destinations throughout Europe , the Middle East and the rest of the world.

Loganair runs flights into Norwich from Aberdeen year-round. TUI [dead link] operates a range of flights into Norwich from several European destinations, some as part of holiday deals.

Norwich Airport is off A140 Holt Road and the A1270 Broadland Northway to the north of Norwich.

Konectbus Route 501 Airport Park and Ride runs every 20 minutes - from Norwich Airport to the city centre and Thickthorn Park and Ride. Canary Konect Route 35 runs up to every 60 minutes to Norwich railway station and Carrow Road stadium.

London Stansted Airport ( STN  IATA ) in Essex is much larger than Norwich Airport (the UK's fourth-largest). Flights arrive into Stansted from destinations throughout the UK and Europe , North Africa , and the Middle East .

Greater Anglia runs trains from London Stansted Airport direct to Thetford , Attleborough , Wymondham and Norwich. National Express routes 727 and 728 link Stansted with Thetford, the University of East Anglia, Norwich Bus Station, Acle and Great Yarmouth . Both routes originate at London Heathrow Airport ( LHR  IATA ) .

By ferry [ edit ]

There are no passenger ferry terminals in Norfolk. The nearest international port is at Harwich in Essex. Greater Anglia, Stena Line and Nederlandse Spoorwegen run a "Rail and Sail to Holland" deal , which includes travel to any Greater Anglia station from Harwich International Port, following the ferry trip from Hook of Holland . This deal includes most stations in Norfolk.

By car [ edit ]

There are several trunk roads and major routes into Norfolk:

By train [ edit ]

London, essex and suffolk to norwich [ edit ].

Greater Anglia operates fast trains all day, every day from London Liverpool Street , London Stratford , Chelmsford , Colchester , Ipswich and Stowmarket into Diss and Norwich . Trains depart London Liverpool Street roughly once per half hour during the daytime on weekdays. Trains also depart in the early morning, late in the evening, and on weekends. Change at Norwich for onward journeys towards Great Yarmouth , Cromer and Sheringham .

London, Cambridge and Ely to King's Lynn [ edit ]

Great Northern operates fast trains from London King's Cross , Cambridge and Ely into Downham Market and King's Lynn .

Stansted Airport, Cambridge and Ely to Norwich [ edit ]

Greater Anglia operates stopping trains during the daytimes from Stansted Airport , Audley End for Saffron Walden , Cambridge and Ely into Thetford , Attleborough , Wymondham and Norwich . Change at Norwich for onward journeys towards Great Yarmouth, Cromer and Sheringham.

Liverpool, Manchester, Sheffield and Peterborough to Norwich [ edit ]

East Midlands Railway (EMR) runs a stopping service from Liverpool Lime Street to Thetford and Norwich via: Warrington Central , Manchester Piccadilly , Sheffield , Nottingham , Grantham , Peterborough and Ely. Change at Norwich for onward journeys towards Great Yarmouth, Cromer and Sheringham.

Lowestoft to Norwich [ edit ]

Greater Anglia operates stopping trains during the daytimes from Lowestoft in Suffolk into Haddiscoe , Reedham , Acle and Norwich . Change at Norwich for onward journeys towards Cromer, Sheringham and Thetford.

By bus [ edit ]

National Express operates several bus routes into Norfolk:

• 490 - London Victoria , London Stratford , Cambridge , Newmarket , Thetford , University of East Anglia and Norwich
• 491 - London Victoria, London Stratford, Thetford, University of East Anglia, Norwich, Acle and Great Yarmouth
• 727 - Heathrow Airport , Stansted Airport , Cambridge, Newmarket, Mildenhall, Thetford, University of East Anglia, Norwich, Acle, Great Yarmouth
• 728 - Heathrow Airport, Stansted Airport, Cambridge, Newmarket, Mildenhall, Thetford, Norwich, University of East Anglia

Long-distance routes by First Bus are:

• Excel A - Peterborough , Thorney, Wisbech , Walton Highway, Terrington St John, King's Lynn , Narborough, Swaffham , Scarning, Dereham , Hockering, Easton, Cringleford Bus Interchange, Norwich
• Excel B - Peterborough, Thorney, Wisbech, King's Lynn, Narborough, Swaffham, Scarning, Dereham, Hockering, Easton, Cringleford Bus Interchange, Norwich
• Excel C - Peterborough, Wisbech, King's Lynn, Walton Highway, Terrington St John, King's Lynn, Narborough, Swaffham, Easton, Cringleford Bus Interchange, Norwich
• CoastLink X1 - Lowestoft , Gunton Pleasurewood Hills, Hopton, Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth, Acle, Norwich
• CoastLink X2/X21/X22 - Lowestoft, Pakefield, Beccles , Loddon, Thurton, Norwich
• Coastal Clipper 1/1A - Lowestoft, Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth, Caister-on-Sea, Hemsby, Martham

Megabus operates one long-distance route in Norfolk:

• M37N - ( Cardiff , Bristol ,) Birmingham , Coventry , Cambridge, University of East Anglia, Norwich

Some local cross-border routes also operate in the south and west of the county.

By bike [ edit ]

Norfolk is on the National Cycle Network and international EuroVelo network:

• National Cycle Route 1 - Dover and London to the south, Newcastle upon Tyne and Scotland to the north. The route enters Norfolk at Beccles to the south-east, and at Wisbech to the north-west. Route 1 passes through Loddon, Norwich, Reepham, Fakenham, Walsingham, Wells-next-the-Sea, Burnham Market and King's Lynn. Charity Sustrans looks after the National Cycle Network.
• National Cycle Route 11 - Unfinished cycle network through Sawbridgeworth, Saffron Walden and Cambridge which enters Norfolk near Downham Market. Charity Sustrans looks after the National Cycle Network.
• National Cycle Route 13 - Signposted cycle route through Colchester, Sudbury and Bury St Edmunds which enters Norfolk near Thetford. In Norfolk, route 13 passes through Watton and Dereham before meeting route 1 south of Fakenham. Charity Sustrans looks after the National Cycle Network.
• EuroVelo 12 North Sea Cycle Route - International cycle network through Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium and France. Follows the route of National Cycle Route 1 through Norfolk.

On foot [ edit ]

• The Icknield Way Path runs from Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire into Norfolk near Thetford . The route forms part of the longer Greater Ridgeway running 360 miles from Lyme Regis to Hunstanton .
• The Angles Way runs along the Norfolk Suffolk border from Great Yarmouth to Thetford (passing through both Norfolk & Suffolk ).
• The Hereward Way long distance footpath runs from Oakham to Knettishall Heath (4 miles E of Thetford ) where it connects with the Peddars Way and the Icknield Way.
• The Ouse Valley Way runs between the source of the River Ouse in Northamptonshire and King's Lynn .

Get around [ edit ]

Information on all rail services can be found on the website of National Rail or by calling +44 8457 484950

Information on all national, regional and local trains and buses can be found on the website of Traveline or by calling +44 8712 002233.

In addition to the principal rail routes detailed in the Get In section above, a number of well supported and popular rail services radiate out along named lines through some exceptionally scenic parts of the county. These include:

• The Bittern Line ( Norwich – Cromer – Sheringham )
• East Suffolk Line ( Ipswich – Lowestoft )
• Wherry Lines ( Norwich – Great Yarmouth / Lowestoft )
• Breckland Line ( Norwich - Wymondham - Attleborough - Thetford - Brandon - Cambridge )

All services are operated by National Express East Anglia (NXEA). In addition to the standard range of tickets offered by all train operating companies, NXEA offers a series of 'Anglia Plus' rail passes which allow for one or three days unlimited travel in Norfolk Suffolk or Cambridgeshire . These can be bought on the day of travel from the ticket office or from the conductor on board the train if no ticket office is available.

There is also the Poppy Line, a preserved railway run by the North Norfolk Railway , that runs from Holt to Sheringham , where the Poppy Line station is just a short walk from the regular station that runs services to Norwich . Holt station is a couple of miles from the town center, but a horse-drawn cart connects the town to the station. In peak season, Poppy Line trains run approximately hourly. Some trains are steam powered; some diesel.

Information on all national, regional and local buses can be found on the website of Traveline or by calling +44 8712 002233.

In addition to the National Express routes listed in the Get in section above, First Eastern Counties operate most urban buses in and around Norwich , as well as a number of regional and rural services that connection Norwich with other parts of the county. See their website for timetable and fare information. Sanders Coaches also runs buses throughout the county.

For exploring the coast, combined rail and bus tickets provide train travel from Norwich to Cromer and Sheringham and onward bus travel along the coast.

Exploring Norfolk by car is convenient and enjoyable. However, during summer the coastal road, the A149, and roads near the Broads can become congested as large numbers of tourists descend on the picturesque towns and villages. Visiting in the off season can avoid getting caught up in (and causing) this seasonal traffic. The coastal route (and more) is equally easily explored by bicycle or public transport.

By bicycle, or on foot [ edit ]

Norfolk's geography makes it an exceptionally easy place to explore by bicycle or on foot, and the county is a good destination for cyclists and hikers to explore. Trains and buses are also increasingly friendly towards cyclists who wish to travel with their bikes, although it is strongly advised to call the transport operator in advance to check availability of space and, if necessary, to reserve it.

For details of cycle routes, visit the website of Sustrans .

For details of paths, visit

• The website of the Ramblers Association Ramblers Association
• Norfolk short & circular walks
• Norfolk long distance walks
• Norfolk cycle routes
• shown on an interactive map .

See [ edit ]

• The many stately homes open to the public located around the county, usually owned by the National Trust. The most popular include Holkham Hall nr Wells-next-the-Sea , Blickling Hall nr Aylsham , Felbrigg Hall nr Cromer and Oxburgh Hall nr Swaffham .
• Sandringham , an official residence of the British royal family.
• A variety of historical ruins maintained by the English Heritage organisation.

Do [ edit ]

• Birdwatching at Cley , Blakeney Point , Titchwell, Holkham and Holme.
• Walk along the Norfolk Coast Path .
• Marriott's Way is a 24 mile walking and cycling route. It goes upriver from Norwich to Drayton, Attlebridge, Lenwade, Whitwell and Themelthorpe, then turns east to Reepham, Cawston and Aylsham. It follows the trackbed of the former Midland and Great Northern railway, known in its day as the "Muddle & Go Nowhere".
• Enjoy the traditional British seaside resort experience at Great Yarmouth , Sheringham , Cromer and Hunstanton , as well as many other smaller towns & villages.
• Visit the theme parks at Pleasure Beach in Yarmouth , Rainbow Park in Hunstanton and the suitably different Bewilderwood in the Norfolk Broads .
• Visit seal colonies at Blakeney Point and Horsey (at certain times of year).

Eat [ edit ]

Those seeking Norfolk's regional cuisine should head for the coast. Although the fishing fleets of Norfolk are not particularly large, their crops can be found in any decent pub or restaurant along the coast, especially that of North Norfolk. Ask what's fresh before ordering, and explore the market towns of the region to find local fishmongers who can tell you about the fish and shellfish that they have for sale. Cromer is noted for its crabs.

With prices for wholesale agricultural produce being forced ever lower by powerful supermarkets and bulk purchasers, many farmers are choosing to apply for organic certification and concentrating on producing high quality natural produce. Fruit such as apples and pears are grown in the region, and there is a small but healthy community of organic meat farmers who sell high quality beef, lamb and pork reared on certified organic Norfolk farms. Once again, you'll find the best suppliers hidden away in the small market towns of the county, so if you enjoy a meal in a pub or with your hosts, ask where the ingredients came from and take some local produce home with you.

In some cake shops and coffee shops and bakers Norfolk Shortcake can be found (sometimes called Norfolk Scones). A normally rectangular shaped cross between a scone and shortcake. Often dusted with sugar on top.

Drink [ edit ]

Whereas the neighbouring county of Suffolk can boast several nationally recognised brewers (Adnams and Greene King, to name but two), Norfolk's brewing industry is on a much smaller scale. This is no bad thing though, as the large number of locally produced beers cater for a broad variety of tastes and palettes. If you want to sample a variety of different Norfolk ales, then simply head for a variety of Norfolk pubs, noting whether they are free houses or attached to a specific brewery, and when you get to the bar, just ask for something local.

In larger towns you are likely to find at least one 'off license' (a shop licensed for the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises) where you'll be able to buy bottle conditioned ales to take home.

Connect [ edit ]

Television [ edit ].

Local variations are made to the national output of BBC One , BBC Two and ITV1 by regional news bureaux of the major networks, who both have studios in Norwich .

• Look East supplements the national news with short local bulletins during the daytime, with a thirty minute flagship programme on BBC One from 6.30pm every weeknight. A short bulletin follows the BBC One 10pm news.
• Anglia Tonight takes its name from the once proud regional television company that produces it, but whose on-screen identity has been all but erased from ITV1. There are short bulletins throughout the day, with a thirty minute programme at 6.00pm and a short bulletin towards the end of the ITV1 National News at 10.30pm.

Additional programmes focusing on local politics, sport, culture and food are dotted throughout the weekly television schedules, although usually in the graveyard slots not already occupied by national output.

Radio [ edit ]

• BBC Radio Norfolk broadcasts a lively mix of locally produced programmes on 95.1FM, 95.6FM, 104.4FM, D.A.B. digital radio and online. Local news, sport and traffic reports are broadcast at least every hour.
• Greatest Hits Radio ( Formerly KLFM 96.7 ). On 96.7 FM. A pop music station broadcasting around King's Lynn and West Norfolk . ( updated May 2017 )
• Kiss 105-108 is an increasingly networked dance, R&B and hip hop music station broadcasting across East Anglia around 106FM.
• North Norfolk Radio is a local FM station covering north Norfolk.

Press [ edit ]

The Norwich Evening News and the Eastern Daily Press (EDP) are both produced by Archant in Norwich . The EDP is the best selling regional newspaper in Britain .

Stay safe [ edit ]

In case of emergency at sea, dial 999 (or 112) and ask for "Coastguard". There are lifeguards at Cromer , Sheringham , Mundesley and Hunstanton from June until the first week in September, from 10:00 to 18:00. The patrolled zone is marked by red and yellow flags on the beach. The beach lifeguard station also flies a red and yellow flag. Do not swim if a red flag is flying. Live ammunition and unexploded bombs from World War II have been found on the coast. If you do come across a suspicious item leave it alone and report it to the coast guard. This is a tidal region so be careful, especially with young children.

Go next [ edit ]

The next nearest airport to the county is London Stansted, which is at best ninety minutes by car from any part of the county, and the low population density of the county has meant that until now, few affordable flights have been offered from Norwich 's own airport.

• London is easily reached from most railway stations in the region, and is an easy day or weekend destination. East Anglia is one of the few regions to have benefited from the rail privatisation process, with new routes and connections appearing to entice travellers onto the trains: Restored through services from London to Bury St Edmunds and Great Yarmouth mean that more people can now get to the capital without an inconvenient change of trains.
• Cambridge is a short train ride or drive from the county, and is an enticing if extremely popular tourist city to visit for the day.

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Norfolk Travel Guide

Found in the east of England, Norfolk’s charms are as broad as the famous network of rivers that run through it. With an abundance of natural beauty and wildlife, this is one county where you can really kick back and enjoy some quintessential English countryside. But it’s not just a rural idyll – there’s loads of stuff to see and do, which we’ve pulled together in our handy Norfolk travel guide. And don’t forget, if you need a place to stay, our luxury cottages in Norfolk offer everything you need for an amazing holiday.

Hidden Gems | For families | Things to do | For foodies

Norfolk possesses a different kind of beauty than that of Britain’s more mountainous regions. Its peaceful Broads, windswept marshlands and blissfully empty beaches have the power to make travellers feel that they are well and truly away from it all – a rare feat in what is actually one of the most crowded countries in Europe. Whether you’re wildlife watching on the tranquil riverbanks or exploring the quaint flint villages, you won’t be competing for space with other tourists. If the isolation gets too much, you can always head into Norwich, where a buzzing cultural scene, a handful of big-name sights and some excellent food and drink will ease you back into civilisation.

Best places to visit in Norfolk

• Houghton Hall – Wander the halls and grounds of this elegant country estate.
• North Norfolk Coast – Marvel at miles of untouched landscapes in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
• Holkham and Wells Beach – Sink your toes into the golden sands of this beach, which was voted as Britain’s best.
• Norwich – Wander the cobbled streets and the riverfront of the pleasant county capital.
• Great Yarmouth – Join in with the fun of the fair in this lively seaside resort.

When to visit

England’s west coast bears the brunt of the country’s rain , which means that lucky Norfolk – which is on the east coast – is a drier county than most. Summer days are warm and you can usually plan time outdoors without ending up waterlogged. The beaches are popular during English school holidays in late July and August , but there are miles upon miles of them so you shouldn’t have much trouble finding your own spot of sand. September is often still warm enough for beach days.

In winter the towns are given over to Christmas markets, ice-skating rinks and open fires to ward off the cold. Spring is a happy medium between the two, offering increasingly warm weather, bright colours in the countryside and fewer people in the beaches and towns. Visit in May for one of the country’s oldest arts celebrations, the Norfolk and Norwich Festival, where you can watch live music, theatre and orchestral concerts in venues across the region.

Getting around

• Airports: There are direct flights from many destinations within the UK and Europe arriving in  Norwich International airport .
• On foot:  One of Norfolk’s major draws is its peaceful, expansive countryside, which is best explored on foot. The Norfolk County Council website lists the majority of walking trails you can join in the county, from long-distance routes to shorter circular walks.
• By car:  The most flexible way of exploring Norfolk is by car, as you can travel door to door at your own pace. Most major car rental firms – among them Hertz , Avis , Budget and Europcar – operate out of Norwich Airport.
• By bus:  Buses run throughout the major towns and villages of Norfolk – visit Traveline to plan your journey. The North Norfolk coast is served by the regular and reliable Stage Coach Bus  service, which runs between King’s Lyn and Cromer. Norwich also operates a Park and Ride system, so you can explore the town centre without having to navigate it by car.
• By train:  The major towns in Norfolk, such as Norwich, Great Yarmouth and Cromer, can be reach by train – check the National Rail website to book your travel.

Hidden gems

• Trundle around the beautiful Broads on the Bure Valley Railway , a narrow gauge steam railway that winds through some of Norfolk’s prettiest landscapes. If you really love vintage transport, head to the Wells and Walsingham Railway for another charming journey on a steam train through the fields.
• It’s almost inevitable you’ll spend a little time in Norfolk’s wetlands, so it’s well worth learning about the ecosystems before you go. One of the best places to find out more is at Green Quay, an interactive museum about the county’s diverse wildlife. You can see the animals that live in the waters of the region and learn about the effects of climate change on the beautiful Norfolk wetlands.
• Fancy a day of exploring noble family homes and elegant gardens? You’re in luck – Norfolk has lots of National Trust properties . Most visitors make a beeline for Blickling Hall, and indeed this red-brick mansion is one of the most attractive heritage sites in the county. But there are other, less well-known buildings you shouldn’t miss, namely the moat-encircled Oxburgh Hall, whose history is particularly compelling and the less-often explored Felbrigg Hall, which features grand mahogany libraries and carefully kept gardens.
• The Norfolk Broads is a network of tranquil waterways that link a series of pretty villages. While here, don’t just stay on the water; some of the small village, such as St. Olaves , are well worth disembarking for. You can spend a day exploring its medieval priory and an old mill before dining in a village inn with views of the winding River Waveney.
• If you want a solitary rambles along deserted shores, there’s no better place for it than the Winterton Dunes National Nature Reserve . If you’re there during December and January, look out for the resident grey seal colony who will be cooing over their newly arrived and extremely adorable pups.

Norfolk for families

The ingredients for a perfect family summer holiday can all be found in Norfolk. Choose the sporty activities, like roller skating or maze exploring, for when the kids have lots of energy. If you want your kids to get out into the countryside for a fix of fresh air, then head to activity centres in the woods or spend a day at the beach. Numerous wildlife sanctuaries and farms are perfect for kids who love animals (and what kid doesn’t?), while the train and boat rides will satiate young transport enthusiasts.

One of the most compelling reasons to take children to Norfolk, however, is the county’s connection to water. Whether it’s in the sea or river, most of the top attractions in the region involve getting wet in some way. Dive underwater in scuba gear, learn to canoe on the Waveney or watch for wildlife from the deck of a fishing boat to experience Norfolk’s wondrous waters. From boat trips to seal encounters, we’ve rounded up the top family activities in the region. Need a bit more info? We’ve got a whole blog full of great family-friendly activities in Norfolk .

The best family-friendly things to do in Norfolk

• With the North Sea nuzzling up against Norfolk’s coast, there’s ample opportunity for a bit of exploration on the high seas (though not too high – the North Sea can get pretty rough!). There’s plenty of opportunity for a boat trip or, if the kids are a bit older, a spot of fishing.
• An even more memorable trip is out to visit the seal colonies off Blakeney Point – Beans Boat Trips   can arrange a trip out to see these curious and charming mammals.
• But it’s not just the sea that offers water adventures in Norfolk. Of course, the majestic Norfolk Broads offers loads to do, whether that’s a relaxing nature walk or something a bit more hands-on.
• The Canoe Man   is a great way to bond as a family – you’ll be treated to a canoe trip through the broads, spotting cute wildlife as you go.
• Norfolk also boasts a huge variety of museums, castles and stately homes, and while they might not seem like the most obvious place to take the kids, most have facilities, gardens and tours that will fascinate (and even educate!) the whole family.
• A great example is  Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens , which features a massive variety of wildlife for kids to see, from tigers to tiny otters.

Free Family Activities in Norfolk

• Holt Country Park  offers families a day out where you can all appreciate nature, from the dozens of species of trees to dragonflies and even deer. The park arranges activities too, and while you have to pay for them they’re remarkably good value at only £2 each.
• For a truly spectacular natural wonder, take a trip to the striped cliffs of Hunstanton. They really are striped, and kids will find them particularly fascinating.
• Children who love animals will love a trip to Redwings Horse Sanctuary  in Caldecott, where you can meet rescued horses, donkeys, ponies and mules. Pick your time though – the centre is only open between March and the end of October.

Other things to do in Norfolk 

From pub tours to owl encounters, we’ve dug out the best grown-up activities in Norfolk. Read our blog on the best group activities in Norfolk if you need more information on some great things to do!

• There are some fantastic museums and galleries in Norfolk, covering everything from mustard to Cold War-era tanks. There’s even a museum dedicated to the popular TV show Dad’s Army , so there really is something for everyone!
• If you’re after some art, the  Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts   makes a fantastic choice. With a permanent collection as well as hosting touring exhibitions, the SVCA is a great place to appreciate 5,000 years of human creativity.
• As well as museums to visit, you can always indulge in a little culture on a tour. Once again, there’s loads to choose from in Norfolk, with food tours, tours on boats from the coast and even birdwatching to choose from.
• Or why not include a tour in another great holiday tradition – a bit of a pub crawl? No prizes for guessing what  Norwich Pub Tours  do, but it’s not just about getting drunk. You’ll learn loads of local trivia and history as you enjoy a few ales.
• A trip to Norfolk wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the majestic Broads, the series of rivers that runs through the county. Hire a bike, rent a boat or just take a stroll and enjoy the wildlife and wonderful scenery.
• Norfolk Broads River Trips   are a great place to go if you want to get out on the water, and you can choose between a private tour for up to eight people or a larger boat with a bar and a spoken tour.
• Norfolk’s relatively flat landscape means there’s a huge number of golf courses to choose from, so if you and your friends are avid devotees of the links you’ll find loads of places to indulge.
• Glen Lodge   in the Yare Valley has two courses (one with 18 holes, one with 9) meaning you’ll have a bit of choice on how much time you want to spend on the greens (and how much time in the 19th hole afterwards!)

Norfolk’s food and drink scene

There are two routes you can go down when immersing yourself in Norfolk’s food and drink scene. One is to dive on in and be hands-on, visiting local markets and taking cookery classes or tours to develop your own culinary skills, exploring a distillery or too and perhaps even learning how to roast coffee.The other option is to let all the food come to you.

It’s easy to spend a whole holiday without once being involved with preparing your meal, choosing instead to feast on tasty regional dishes, like herrings cooked in mustard and hares cooked whole. Other local specialities you’ll see cropping up on menus again and again include Cromer crab, samphire and juicy Brancaster mussels. August is when the county’s famous Food and Drink Festival takes place – and is prime snacking and food shopping season.

Here are some food and drink experience in Norfolk that will send your taste buds into a spin, and you can find more in our blog on the best foodie experiences in Norfolk !

The best restaurants in Norfolk

• Wiveton Hall   in Holt offers informal, café-style dining, but that doesn’t mean you can expect café style food! The eatery here is full of art and light, and serves up the very best seasonal produce from the Hall’s adjacent farm. You can even stock up on supplies in the farm shop to take home with you!
• Fancy something a little different for dinner?  Amandines  in Diss serves up the very best in vegan and vegetarian food, and their menu changes around regularly so you know you’ll always ben in libe for something fresh and tasty.
• It’d be a shame not to enjoy the bounty of Norfolk’s coastline while you’re visiting, so take a trip to Brancaster’s  White Horse   restaurant. It serves the freshest and tastiest seafood, with a bevy of local meat and vegetables on the menu for those who aren’t that keen on fish. The views are spectacular too.
• The Ingham Swan  in Norwich is the place to go if you want to try a bit of Norfolk’s fine dining – their tasting menu comes highly recommended, though the à la carte menu boasts temptations like a trio of local lamb and honey roasted guinea fowl.

Must-try dishes in Norfolk

• Cromer crab  is one highly prized crustacean! Though it’s the same species of brown crab that you’ll often find for sale at fishmongers throughout the land, the shallow waters and chalk reefs off the Norfolk coast produce sweet meaty, crabs that don’t need much – just some brown bread, lemon juice and a pinch of pepper.
• And as a side dish for your seafood, look out for samphire . Growing near the Norfolk coast, this vegetable has a distinctive salty taste and is often compared to asparagus.
• With so much farmland in the county, you’ll be enjoying fresh and seasonal produce no matter where you eat – but don’t forget that quality extends to dairy produce too! You’ll find some great cheese in Norfolk, but keep your eyes peeled for Binham Blue , Norfolk White Lady and Ruby Dapple .

Hopefully this Norfolk Travel Guide, packed full of handy tips of things to do and places to visit has set you up perfectly for your next Norfolk holiday! If you’re still on the hunt for somewhere to stay, look no further than our holiday homes in the region, and chat to our concierge team if you need any help!

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37 Best Things To Do in Norwich + Top Tips & Map

It’s no surprise that Norwich is known as one of the best small cities in the world. Packed with fascinating history, medieval architecture and top attractions, Norwich makes a fantastic destination for a day out or a short city break.

There are plenty of amazing things to do in and around Norwich to create unforgettable experiences for the whole family. Independent shops in both quirky and modern shopping areas, family-friendly attractions, city gardens and museums, as well as its very own castle, make Norwich a must-visit Norfolk destination.

Add to that the nearby nature and wildlife-rich Norfolk Broads, the glorious beaches and seaside resorts of Norfolk’s coast, and plenty of award-winning Norfolk tourist attractions, it’s easy to see why Norwich is so popular!

This round-up of all the must-do things in Norwich and the surrounding area plus recommendations for places to stay and where to eat will help you plan your next trip. Here are my top Norwich highlights.

RELATED POST: The Ultimate Local’s Guide to Norfolk

This post may contain affiliate links. If you book something I recommend, I make a small commission without affecting the price you pay!

Take a Guided Tour of Norwich

Roarr dinosaur adventure park, lenwade, other accommodation options for norwich, the tipsy vegan, st benedicts street, is norwich worth visiting.

The vibrant city of Norwich is the perfect place for a quintessentially British break. Historic architecture, the growing gastro scene , a focus on culture, the arts and literature, the glorious Norfolk Broads and the flourishing mix of quirky independent boutiques and high street stalwarts make Norwich one of the most popular cities in England to visit.

Things To Do in Norwich Norfolk

Feast & shop at norwich market.

If you only do one thing in this pretty city, visit Norwich market, the city centre’s main attraction and one of the oldest open-air markets left in the country.

The 900-year-old market has been around since medieval times and is one of the top Norwich attractions. Located slap bang in the middle of the city, the market sprawls proudly at the feet of the contemporary Forum building and Norwich’s Art Deco city hall.

Think organic Norfolk fruit and veg, local home-grown flowers, fresh produce, local crafts and stalls selling local food from legendary fish and chips (Ron’s, row D, stalls 94 and 95), fresh churros and chocolate to cakes and dressed Cromer crab. Grab your bite of choice and watch Norwich life go by.

RELATED POST: 43 Norfolk Farm Shops for Amazing Local Produce!

Tour Norwich Cathedral

Built by the Normans between 1096 and 1145, and unique for its soft creamy limestone exterior, Norwich Cathedral is top things to see in Norwich.

Known for the fine 96-metre spire, the second highest in England after Salisbury Cathedral, Norwich Cathedral is also famous for being the last resting place of Edith Cavell, a British nurse who during WWI was executed by the Germans for her heroic acts in helping Allied soldiers escape from German-occupied Belgium.

With a well-preserved Norman character, the Cathedral Quarter is a delightful place to visit for a few hours, especially when you also explore Tombland Alley.

From Tombland, 13th century Ethelbert Gate and 15th century Erpingham Gate lead into The Close, with its wealth of history including the medieval deanery, Georgian houses and over 80 listed buildings.

RELATED POST: Norfolk Churches: 16 of the Best to Visit

Discover the Cathedral of St John the Baptist

Did you know that Norwich actually has two cathedrals? Often overlooked in favour of its more historic neighbour, the Cathedral of St John the Baptist is definitely worth a visit. The cathedral offers fantastic views of the city from the tower.

The Roman Catholic Cathedral was built in the 19th century as a gift from the 15th Duke of Norfolk to show that Catholics could now practice their faith openly.

It is one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in the country and boasts intricate carvings, metalwork, and stained glass.

The interior of the cathedral is known for its with fine stonework and beautiful stained glass making it an inspiring and tranquil place of prayer.

Visit Bishop’s House Gardens

This garden in Norwich is the historic private garden of the Bishop of Norwich and is a four acre delight of colour and calm in the centre of the busy Norwich city where you can enjoy a few hours of respite in the green spaces.

The Bishop’s House Gardens are of classic garden design and including colourful herbaceous borders, a fragrant herb garden, a bamboo and jungle walk, an working organic kitchen garden, a pretty wildflower labyrinth and extensive shrubberies containing many rare and unusual plants.

There is even a hebe planted (and flourishing!) from a sprig taken from Queen Victoria’s wedding bouquet in 1840.

Stroll Elm Hill & Princes Street

The cathedral is close to both Elm Hill and Princes Street, both picture-perfect cobbled streets near the River Wensum, lined with colourful and historic Tudor houses, many of them now pretty shops, restaurants, and cafés. A walk along Princes Street and Elm Hill is one of the best free things to do in Norwich.

RELATED POST: Walks in Norwich – 15 City Walking Routes

Take a Self Guided City Adventure

If you’re looking for things to do in Norwich for families, the Norwich Mystery Treasure Trail is a detective game that’s a great way to get kids interested in the history of the city.

Just download from Treasure Trails and follow the map to find clues and work out who has stolen a priceless statue from Norwich Cathedral grounds.

As you weave your way along the 1.5 mile trail between Norwich Cathedral, Elm Hill, Tombland and St Andrews Street, you’ll be looking for clues on local landmarks, signs and buildings, whilst trying to solve the ‘crime’.

Teenagers may prefer City Escape Games , a self-guided city adventure where you can solve cryptic puzzles around Norwich using your phone. 

Visit Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery

Norwich Castle , a magnificent Norman keep constructed in 1095 by William II, is built on a large artificial mound in the centre of Norfolk’s capital (and only) city as part of his campaign to defeat East Anglia after the Norman Conquest of England.

Norwich Castle was a medieval royal fortification before becoming a gaol from 1220 to 1887. It is now home to the excellent Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery and the Royal Norfolk Regimental Museum.

The historic national importance of the site was recognised in 1915 when Norwich Castle site listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. In 1954, the castle buildings, including the keep, attached Gothic-style gatehouse and former prison wings, were given Grade I listed building status.

The Castle site comprises the 900-year-old Castle, and a large museum art gallery complex converted from the city’s Victorian prison, which houses internationally important collections in archaeology, natural history, regimental history, and fine, decorative and contemporary art.

Please note due to the major redevelopment project Norwich Castle: Royal Palace Reborn , the original medieval castle, dungeons and battlements are currently closed to the public.

RELATED POST: 12 Norfolk Castles for You to Explore

Discover the King Street Quarter

King Street is one of the longest thoroughfares in Norwich and has historically been associated with fishing and the riverside industry.

As trade from the river grew, so did the amount of sailors stopping in Norwich – and the amount of hostelries needed for them to visit! Of the 58 pubs which were once found on this street, only one survives today.

There are two very fine examples of historic houses along King Street. The Music House was once owned by a wealthy family and dates from the 12th century. It is thought to be the oldest surviving house in the city. 

Lost for centuries, the superb Grade One listed Dragon Hall , is a restored medieval trading hall dating from 1430. The breathtaking Great Hall features an impressive timber crown-post roof and an intricately carved and painted dragon.

It was once at the heart of an international trading empire and would have been used to store and sell wool, cloth, timber, spices and other items of value.

Now, the National Centre for Writing is found here, befitting for England’s first UNESCO City of Literature and honouring the greatest mystic of the Middle Ages, Julian of Norwich, who was the first woman to write a book in English.

Go Shopping!

One of my favourite places to visit in Norwich, the Lanes personifies the lively and independent nature of the city. The Norwich Lanes are a series of mostly pedestrianised small lanes, alleyways and streets nestled between the market and the Castle Quarter, and home to the Victorian Royal Arcade.

Hidden away off Bethel Street, just a short walk from The Forum is The South Asia Collection Museum and Shop . In an architectural gem of a building, which was once a skating rink, visiting is one of the best unique things to do in Norwich. The shopping experience is pretty good too!

Along Gentleman’s Walk, the main shopping thoroughfare, you’ll find lots of brands and the incomparable Jarrolds of Norwich. This independent department store has been in this spot on London Street since 1840.

As you enter, skip the cosmetics and head for the basement, where you’ll find a fantastic deli and small cafe, along with an award-winning book department – I can spend a long time here in my happy place!

RELATED POST: Five Ideas for a Short Break in Norfolk

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at The Assembly House

Afternoon tea in the Assembly House Hotel in Norwich is a real treat and is considered one of the best afternoon teas in Norwich by many.

Served in a beautifully decorated Georgian room, the classic tiered stands, fine white china and traditional offerings make this a perfect spot to celebrate a special occasion.

A mouth-watering menu includes all the afternoon tea favourites like delicate finger sandwiches, delicious savouries, fruit and plain scones with jam and cream, and a fantastic selection of cakes and sweet pastries. To top off your afternoon, you can also enjoy a glass of fizz with your tea.

RELATED POST: Afternoon Tea in Norwich: The Assembly House Review

Get Creative at Norwich Puppet Theatre

Norwich Puppet Theatre , one of only three building-based puppet theatres in England, is a venue, theatre company and community outreach organisation.

This registered charity is dedicated to championing the special art form of puppetry and providing magical theatrical experiences.

The NPT programme of creative skills activities and events offers a brilliant introduction to the magic of theatre with original shows and workshops for all ages.

Discover the City of Stories

Housed in a 14th century merchant’s house in the Norwich Lanes, the Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell shares the stories of business and industry in the city over hundreds of years.

There exhibitions about the medieval wool trade in Norfolk, which created much of the counties’ wealth in the 13th century, and find out about other famous Norwich products like chocolate, shoes and Coleman’s mustard.

Just along the way on St Andrews Street is Strangers Hall , a Grade I Tudor merchant’s house which has been used as a museum of local history since the 1930s.

The house boasts richly furnished 16th and 17th century interiors and exhibits that show how life was lived in Norwich over the centuries. Behind the house is a pretty knot garden, laid out in the 17th century.

RELATED POST: 21 Museums in Norfolk You Won’t Want to Miss!

Stroll & Paddle the River Wensum

There is a wonderful mile long riverside walk along the lush and tranquil river Wensum, which starts, surprisingly, just outside Norwich train station, also the starting point of the Wherryman’s Way, one of the best walks in the Norfolk Broads .

• Cross the bridge outside the train station and on the right, walk through the patio at the Compleat Angler pub and down the stairs.
• Here you’ll find the start of the path lined with pretty weeping willows.
• Head north along the river to scenic Pulls Ferry, past the Red Lion pub where you can stop for a drink and maybe spot kingfishers.
• Walk on to Cow Tower, one of the earliest artillery blockhouses in England, dating back to 1398.
• Keep on the path until you reach Riverside Park, where you can cut through the pay and display car park, past the Adam and Eve pub to Norwich Cathedral.

If you fancy getting on the water instead, hire a paddle board or kayak from Norwich Paddleboard Hire at Gibraltar Gardens Pub opposite Anderson’s Meadow, and located right on the bank of the river.

You can paddle up river through tranquil landscapes into the heart of the beautiful Norfolk countryside, or go south and explore Norwich city centre by water, a fascinating way to see the city.

RELATED POST: 30 of the Very Best Things To Do in Norfolk

Explore The Forum

Sandwiched between Norwich Market and Chapelfield Gardens, with St Peter Mancroft, Norwich’s largest 15th century parish church standing guard, The Forum is a contemporary landmark community building which is always busy.

Home to the Norfolk and Norwich Millennial Library and BBC East, you’ll also find street performers playing to the crowds outside, live music events, food and craft markets inside, or one of the many other events held here.

The Forum is a great place to stop by, grab a coffee, and see what’s happening.

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Visit St Peter Mancroft Church

The largest of Norwich’s medieval churches, St Peter Mancroft was originally established by the then Earl of East Anglia, Ralph de Gael between 1066 and 1075.

Today the church still stands in its slightly elevated position but is now consumed by the hustle and bustle of the busy city centre and market.

Now a Grade I listed building, the present St Peter Mancroft was begun in 1430 and consecrated in 1455. Boasting an 11th century Norman foundation, a 15th century font, a 16th century Flemish tapestry and windows of medieval glass, the church is well worth a visit.

There is an extensive collection of church silver including the Gleane and Thistle cups, as well as memorabilia associated with its most famous parishioner, the physician-philosopher  Thomas Browne , author of the 1642 spiritual testament  Religio Medici  or The Religion of a Doctor .

Be Entertained at Riverside

The Riverside area of Norwich is a modern development of entertainment venues and retail parks. Here you’ll find an Odeon Cinema, Hollywood Bowl and the Gravity Trampoline Park , as well as the usual selection of eateries to keep you all stoked up!

Just over the way is the Carrow Road stadium, home to premier league Norwich City Football Club, known as the Canaries. You can tour Carrow Road , and also stop at the Yellows Bar and Grill , where all the dishes are made to Delia Smith recipes. Delia has strong connections to the club, where she and her husband are majority shareholders.

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Have Fun at Eaton Park

Norwich’s largest park, Eaton Park covers 80 acres and offers a range of activities for all ages, making it a great destination for a day out.

There are plenty of things to do in the park, including boating on the lake, playing tennis and mini-golf, taking woodland walks, and exploring the meadows, and you will never struggle to find a quiet spot for a picnic.

Eaton Park is also home to a miniature railway, one of the most fun things to do in Norwich! The railway retains the original heritage 5″ gauge track and the main line, a dual gauge track, both of which run through the lush meadows of the park.

Public trains run on Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from the first Sunday in April until the last Sunday in September and pop-up trains run when there are enough volunteers and subject to the weather! 

Follow the Facebook pages of  Friends of Eaton Park  or  Eaton Park Miniature Railway  where pop-up days will be announced.

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Discover Norfolk Gins

There are four gin distilleries in Norwich, where you can visit and take a tour, try your hand at making gin and of course, sample signature gins. This is a fun way to spend a few hours, especially if the weather is not on your side!

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Visit the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts

One of the first major public buildings to be designed by the architects Norman Foster and Wendy Cheesman, the Sainsbury Centre , in the grounds of the University of East Anglia, was completed in 1978.

Not only is this a stunning contemporary building, but it is also a light-filled art gallery and museum which holds a permanent collection which includes works by Picasso, Giacometti, Van Gogh, Degas and Francis Bacon.

There is also a sculpture garden, with works by Henry Moore, Elisabeth Frink, Lynn Chadwick, and Antony Gormley, all sitting alongside the beautiful River Yare.

There is also an excellent café with a fantastic outlook, and a very good gift shop selling unique and locally made arts and crafts.

Escape in an Escape Room!

An escape room is an adventure with a mix of physical objects, puzzles and riddles thrown in that must be solved in a specified timeframe before you can ‘escape’. Some escape rooms also use virtual reality settings to enhance the experience.

As a group, you must work effectively together to solve the puzzle. Escape rooms are challenging and fun at the same time, and are often used for team building, but they are also great fun for families with teenagers or young adults.

If you want to try an escape room in Norwich check out Vector VR in Castle Quarter, Escape Hunt at Chantry Place or Cryptic Escape in either Tombland or Rose Lane.

If you’re looking for something to do in Norfolk on a rainy day, a party venue for kids or an interactive family activity, then an escape room in Norwich makes a great option.

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Have Fun at Bowling House

One of three bowling alleys in Norwich, Bowling House is a little different as it is also a cocktail bar, karaoke venue and restaurant, that just happens to be a ten-pin bowling alley!

A Tripadvisor Travellers Choice for 2023 , there are lots of activities and events suitable for kids, families and adults, making the Bowling House a great destination on your trip to Norwich.

Chill in the Plantation Garden

Norwich’s own secret garden, this three acre Grade II English Heritage registered garden was established over 100 years ago in an abandoned chalk quarry, just a few hundred yards from the city centre. The garden fell into disrepair after the Second World War but was restored in 1980 to the paradise it is today.

With lush green planting, Gothic features, an Italianate terrace, woodland walkways and a gorgeous greenhouse, this is one of the best things to do in Norwich city centre to enjoy a spot of peace and tranquillity.

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Catch a Show at the Theatre Royal

For a city so well known for literature, it’s no surprise that Norwich is big into theatre. There are six permanent theatres, including Norwich Puppet Theatre, The Playhouse, The Garage, Sewell Barn and Maddermarket Theatre, with the largest being Norwich Theatre Royal .

The original Theatre Royal was opened in 1758, before being rebuilt in 1801 and again in 1935, and then completely refurbished in 2007 by Tim Foster Architects.

With a 1,300-seater auditorium, this historic art-deco theatre has a fantastic programme of touring West End musicals, plays, comedy, dance, music and of course, the obligatory Christmas panto!

Learn to Climb at Highball Climbing Centre

The Highball Climbing Centre is Norfolk’s largest and a great place for kids to get started. There is a range of climbing and bouldering taster sessions available for kids of all ages.

If your child is an experienced climber, they must demonstrate their competence before climbing unsupervised, so allow a little extra time for this or pre-arrange with Highball before visiting.

Explore Mousehold Heath

A short drive from the city centre, Mousehold Heath is a nature reserve located in the north of Norwich that spans over 88 hectares. A unique combination of heathland, woodland, and open recreational space, the heath is highly valued for its geological history and wildlife. It’s also a great place to take a walk with kids and dogs and enjoy the best of city nature.

The Earth Heritage Trail is the best to explore the geological history of Mousehold Heath, which has been used for sand and gravel quarrying for over two hundred years. The sandy soils of Mousehold Heath provide an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, frogs, lizards, dragonflies, butterflies and woodland birds.

The trail consists of eighteen waymarked points of interest that can be explored in any order. Each point of interest links the landscape and wildlife of the Heath today with its deep geological history. You can find a printable trail leaflet that includes a map and detailed information about what you’ll see on the walk here .

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Discover Norwich Underground

One of the most unusual things to do in Norwich is explore the subterranean world beneath its streets. Norwich has England’s most extensive network of undercrofts, but there are also other secret cellars, hidden passages and underground structures which paint a picture of the city’s fascinating medieval history.

Located two flights below The Shoebox Community Hub on Castle Street in Norwich is a hidden world that dark tourists will love to explore! Abandoned houses and secret passageways can be found, leading to a locked door that unsuspecting pedestrians pass by without realizing what lies just inches away.

For many years, there have been whispers about what lies beneath what used to be Ponds shoe store. Tales of tunnels that snake through Norwich, secret dungeons where the worst offenders were incarcerated, and escape routes either to or from Norwich Castle.

In the eerie half-light, it’s easy to believe the tales. The underground space is incredibly atmospheric, with a warren of dark rooms and doors where you can see the remains of an old yard that was once in the shadow of the castle itself. Book your Norwich hidden street tour here .

If you enjoy a small group guided tour organised by a knowledgeable guide, then Norfolk local Paul Jackson is a highly rated and fully qualified official City of Norwich tourist guide.

Paul Dickson Tours offers a great selection of Norwich guided tours, depending on your interests. There are tours dedicated to CJ Sansom’s best-selling novel Tombland and its protagonist Matthew Shardlake. Other tours discover the history of the city through the ages, through its architectural legacy, creative heritage and cultural story.

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The Best Things to Do Near Norwich

Discover the norfolk broads.

With huge skies, infinite landscapes, tranquil water and abundant wildlife, the Norfolk Broads are a beautiful place to visit – you can find out how in my Norfolk Broads guide .

The Broads National Park is made up of over 60 open areas of water known as Broads, which, along with the rivers Yare, and its tributaries the Ant, Thurne, Bure, Chet and Waveney, occupy a vast triangle of land formed by Great Yarmouth, Wroxham , and Stalham.

If you don’t have lots of time to explore, start at Hickling Broad, the largest Broad in the National Park. At the far east end of Hickling Broad is Horsey Windpump, one of the area’s most iconic windmills managed by the National Trust. The whole area is incredibly photogenic.

Or head for Potter Heigham, Ranworth or South Walsham, all small picturesque villages with interesting churches and good pubs!

The beauty and nature of the Broads are best enjoyed from the water, and motor cruisers, kayaks and canoes can be rented, or you can take a Broads boat tour if you’re prefer to be skippered.

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Enjoy Family Fun at BeWILDerwood, Horning

One of the best fun things to do with kids in Norfolk,  BeWILDerwood  is located in the village of Horning to the east of Norwich. This woodland adventure park is the perfect place for kids to burn off energy with outdoor activities like hurling down zip lines and slides, climbing the numerous treehouses and crossing the many rope bridges strung between the trees.

The whole park is character-themed from a series of kids’ books, and this forms the basis craft sessions and story-telling. There’s also a restaurant and shop.

If you visit in the school holidays, you’ll want to spend a full day ay BeWILDerwood and book ahead as it gets really busy.

Cycle to Whitlingham Country Park, Trowse

Just southeast of Norwich situated near the pretty village of Trowse ​lies the wonderful Whitlingham Country Park . One of the largest parks in Norwich, you can cycle here on a Beryl Bike picked up in central Norwich in around ten minutes, and the National Cycle Route 1  runs right through the park.

A favourite with visitors, the open space of the park offers a tranquil location to get away from it all. Head for the Broads Authority Tourist Information Centre , fittingly in a historic flint barn, where you can learn more about the unique flora and fauna of the Broads.

The two mile trail around Whitlingham Great Broad, the woodland trails and meadows are well worth exploring by bike or on foot, and you’ll find picnic tables where you can enjoy your well earnt packed lunch and flask of tea!

One of the best ways to appreciate the wildlife and nature of the park is from the water, and you can hire kayaks and SUPs on the banks of the Broad to go exploring.

If you prefer to be in a boat, then take the park’s electric boat trip, the perfect chance to get in some wildlife spotting.

Explore North Norfolk Beaches

For me, North Norfolk has some of the best beaches in the country, all just a stone’s throw from Norwich.

From Winterton-on-Sea and Horsey to Holkham via Cromer , you’ll find huge sandy stretches, grassy dunes, traditional bucket and spade beaches and nature reserves along this windswept and unspoilt part of the Norfolk coast .

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Creep Out at Bug Parc, Lenwade

A new attraction for 2022 and close to Norwich, Bug Parc is perfect if you’ve got kids who love all things creepy crawly. There are three large tropical invertebrate houses, home to over 200 species, as well as the opportunity to handle live invertebrates, but you do need to book this in advance.

For those who are fascinated by minibeasts, this makes for a great day out and the live handling sessions are excellent. Managed by an insect expert, you’ll learn about the bugs in a small group session.

If you really don’t like bugs or spiders (my biggest fear!), you can easily bypass the spider and tarantula houses… phew!

Visit the City of Norwich Aviation Museum, Horsham St Faith

Norwich’s Aviation Museum is located at former RAF Horsham St Faith airfield, which opened in 1940 and was operational during WWII as a fighter and bomber base, before being redeveloped as Norwich International Airport.

The museum’s exhibits include 30 vintage military and commercial aircraft including a Avro Vulcan Bomber, Hawker Siddeley Nimrod, Avro RJ85, Fokker Friendship F27 and Handley Page Herald.

There are also sections dedicated to the history of the RAF in Norfolk and to that of the United States Army Air Force, units of which were based at various airfields in Norfolk during the Second World War.

The museum is manned by a crew of volunteers and has been home to Norfolk’s Aviation Heritage for over forty years.

Have Fun in Great Yarmouth

A lively seaside town in Norfolk and just a few miles from Norwich, Great Yarmouth makes for an action-packed day out or holiday destination.

With its famous Pleasure Beach, SEA LIFE Centre, fantastic long sandy beach, amusements and traditional seaside attractions, there’s lots to keep visitors happy!

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Spend a Day at Blickling Hall

One of the best Norfolk stately homes to visit, Blickling Estate is mentioned in the Domesday Book, was the birthplace of Anne Boleyn, and during the Second World War RAF aircrew were billeted here.

The Jacobean house is packed full of history, paintings, tapestries and antiques and the hall is also home to one of England’s most important collections of manuscripts and books.

Outside are 55 acres of formal gardens with an orangery, kitchen garden and lake to explore.

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Take a Vineyard Tour & Tasting

Chet Valley Vineyard enjoys a unique climate, with higher than-average sunshine hours and the lowest rainfall in England, meaning the grapes grown here ripen beautifully in these ideal conditions.

Take a tour and tasting to explore every aspect of the growing and wine-making process, and have the opportunity to taste the vineyard’s delicious wines in the tranquil Norfolk countryside.

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Kids still in the big scary monsters stage will love the Dinosaur Adventure Park . Set in 85 acres of woodlands, there are huge realistic sounding dinosaur models waiting to surprise them along the dinosaur trail.

They can also get involved in digging for fossils, explore the maze and have a go on the assault course. There really is a lot to do here, it’s a full family day out!

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Where to Stay in Norwich

The georgian townhouse, unthank road.

The Georgian Townhouse is a laid-back hotel with a lively bar and restaurant, just outside the city centre but within easy walking distance of bars, restaurants and shops.

The vibe is upbeat, with cool interiors and relaxed, but attentive, staff.

Airbnb Apartment, Wensum Street

This two-bedroomed self-catering Airbnb style apartment on Wensum Street is just 200 metres from the cathedral and the cobbled streets of historic Norwich. Light, bright and airy, this spacious apartment is perfect for a city break.

The Assembly House, Theatre Street

This is the treat option, for that special weekend away. The Assembly House is well located in the heart of the city, within a few minutes walk of the major attractions.

Beautifully decorated with Georgian features, panelled rooms, ornate fireplaces and marbled bathrooms, contemporary luxury is the style here. Oh, and they also serve the best afternoon tea in the city !

Whitlingham Broad Campsite

If you want to combine your visit to Norwich with a bit of countryside, then book a glamping yurt, converted goods wagon, shepherds hut, bell tent or stunning tree-house style woodland den, at the beautiful Whitlingham Broad Campsite .

With all the amenities you need and a wonderful location on the banks of Whitlingham Broad, you can be in Norwich city centre in fifteen minutes on a Beryl bike .

38 St Giles, St Giles Street

A friendly B & B, 38 St Giles is full of character and quirky touches. Within a minute’s walk of Norwich market, this guesthouse is right in the centre of the lively city.

Spacious and simply decorated rooms with superbly comfy beds make for a wonderful stay.

Maids Head Hotel, Tombland

The Maids Head Hotel is the oldest hotel in Norwich, dating back over 800 years, and has a great location in the medieval part of the city.

This award-winning hotel has recently gone through a seven-year renovation, with all parts of the hotel receiving investment. The 84 individually designed rooms and suites enjoy contemporary decor and quirky touches, making them a pleasure in which to stay.

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My Favourite Places to Eat in Norwich

Over the past couple of years, Norwich has become a real foodie destination and its gastronomic scene is bursting with innovative, homegrown and quirky eateries. This is our pick of the top places to try…

Grosvenor Fish Bar, Lower Goat Lane

I love this place! Not only can you get the best fish and chips (and lots of other delish things) here, but you can eat them in a funky restaurant come cafe in the heart of the Lanes, whilst listening to laid-back music with a glass of fizz in your hand!

Grosvenor Fish Bar will also let you take out to eat from the wrappings, let you collect to take home and order in advance.

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No 33 Cafe, Exchange Street

No 33 Cafe is just down the hill from the wonderful Jarrolds department store and is one of the best breakfast and brunch places in Norwich and possibly even East Anglia!

From a traditional cooked breakfast made with local ingredients to shakshuka, via American pancakes and eggs benedict to healthy yoghurt, fruit and granola, I bow at the altar of their food offering, especially as breakfast is my fave meal of the day!

Yalm Food Hall, Royal Arcade

Yalm (pronounced Yaarm), is committed to supporting local chefs and offering a diverse range of flavors from around the world, all delivered in an innovative and interesting space.

Whether you’re looking for brunch, lunch, dinner, or a group celebration, Yalm is designed to appeal to everyone, with the various kitchens selected based on the quality of their produce and the passion they bring to their menus.

The name Yalm comes from a Norfolk word meaning ‘to eat hungrily’, reflecting the restaurant’s local focus and its aim to offer a unique dining experience.

Benedicts, St Benedicts Street

Benedicts is the perfect spot for a special occasion or celebration. Run by Chef Patron Richard Bainbridge (of Great British Menu fame) and his wife Katja, this stylish restaurant serves up modern British food, with local ingredients taking centre stage.

You’ll need to book well in advance, it gets busy!

Woolf & Social, Nelson Street

Woolf & Social is the brainchild of two best mates and aims to bring people together through a laid-back dining style and seasonal sharing plates, mixing the best of both fine dining and street food.

The menu piques my curiosity and makes my mouth water – this is certainly somewhere I’ll be coming back to.

I’m not a vegan, not even a vegetarian, but I have a step-daughter who is, and so I’m always happy to check out places like The Tipsy Vegan .

Located in the Lanes, their focus is on small plates with food and flavours from around the world. With the likes of sweetcorn fritters, mac n cheese and buttermilk burgers with chipotle slaw on the menu, I’m seriously tempted to give up the meat!

About Norwich Norfolk

Norwich is a city with history, woven through its ancient streets, heritage sites, and stories.

The area was originally inhabited by the Iceni tribe, led by Prasutagus and later by his wife Boudicca, who fought an unsuccessful revolt against the Romans in 60 CE.

The Romans occupied the Norwich area for another 300 years, and the Anglo-Saxons began to establish settlements and industries in the area before the Danish Vikings invaded in 866.

The Normans conquered Norwich in 1066 and built a timber castle and a cathedral using stone imported from northern France.

During the medieval period, the area prospered, with a booming textile trade and the construction of many churches.

In the late Renaissance period through to the 19th century, Norwich was known as England’s second city and new industries began to emerge, including printing, leather production, and the shoe and boot industry.

The 20th century saw further growth and development, including the opening of the University of East Anglia and the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts. Today, Norwich is a UNESCO City of Literature and a thriving city with a rich cultural heritage.

How to Get to Norwich

Norwich, Norfolk is within easy reach of the rest of the UK, with great transport links. You can visit Norfolk by mainline train in less than two hours. Simply take the regular Greater Anglia service from London Liverpool Street, which leaves every hour or so.

Alternatively, you can take a National Express coach from Victoria Coach Station.   This takes around 4 hours depending on the time of day but is often much cheaper – especially when booked in advance.

There are also good rail connections with Peterborough, Cambridge and King’s Lynn , making Norwich easily accessible from the whole country.

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Getting Around Norwich

Norwich is a compact city that’s easy to get around on foot, by bus or even by bike.  First Bus Norfolk & Suffolk run regular services in and around Norwich and Norfolk.

There is also the Norfolk Coastlink service which connects Norwich with Great Yarmouth , and the regular X44 bus from Norwich to Cromer, where you can pick up the Norfolk Coasthopper bus which visits all the towns and villages along the North Norfolk Coast.

How about hiring a bike? It’s an excellent way to see the city and means you can get to more top attractions in the time you have.

The Beryl Bike Share scheme, which is supported by Norwich City Council, means you can grab a bike at one of the many points in the city, and only pay for the time you use it!

If you need a local taxi company, my preferred one is ABC Taxis. You can call to book on +44 (0)1603 777333 or book online .

When to Visit Norwich

Spring is a beautiful time in and around Norwich, with everything coming to life after the winter. There is a chance you’ll experience wetter weather, even though East Anglia is the driest place in the UK! Accommodation and attractions will offer good value, and it will be quieter than summer.

Visiting Norwich in summer means the weather is likely to be good, with most days being warm and some getting hot. In summer, Norwich tends to be busier with tourists and day trippers. Accommodation will be more expensive and popular attractions may need to be booked in advance.

Autumn is a great time to visit Norwich if you want warm weather but prefer to avoid school holidays. Late September and October can be very mild, retaining summer’s warmth and making for perfect holiday weather.

This is the best time for a trip to Norwich if you love crisp days, roaring fires, panto and indoor attractions – there may even be snow! Avoid the February half term when the city can get busier with holidaymakers.

Map of Norwich Attractions

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Have I missed a great Norwich attraction, place to stay or eat from my round-up? Let me know in the comments so I can include it on my list of things to do in Norwich Norfolk!

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