east anglia road trip

Suggested Itinerary: Three to Six Days in the East of England

East Anglia was one of the ancient Anglo Saxon kingdoms. It fills the lobe-shaped protuberance of England northeast of London and shown (very roughly) in the illustration above. Today it it covers the counties of Norfolk and Suffolk along with parts of Cambridgeshire and Essex.

Originally the home of the Iceni tribe, whose Queen Boadiccea (or sometimes Boudicca) held off the Romans for a while, it was the kingdom of the East Angles and the Danes before the Saxons moved in and gave it its traditional name.

A Lucky Accident of Nature

Throughout the Middle Ages, East Anglia was an important region; its largest city, Norwich , was second only to London, its trade links to Europe, through the Hanseatic League, made its merchants rich and powerful.

But then nature dealt it an unlucky hand (or a lucky hand, depending upon your point of view). The region has no coal or iron, tin or china clay, nor rushing rivers to turn the wheels of giant mills - all the resources that fueled the Industrial Revolution. So the Industrial Revolution went elsewhere, leaving East Anglia a mainly undeveloped, rural corner of Britain, dotted with traditional villages, market towns and small cities with pristine medieval quarters.

All this makes East Anglia perfect for touring. It has:

• huge, gorgeous beaches - the last scene of Shakespeare in Love was filmed on Holkham Sands),
• a subtle landscape - some people say East Anglia is flat but its gently rolling farm country hides many surprises
• several spectacular ancient cathedrals
• two important university towns - one ancient and one modern
• original medieval halls and Elizabethan farmhouses wherever you turn
• excellent seafood - from world class oysters in the south to wonderful crabs in the north
• the home of thoroughbred racing
• and no gigantic motorways screaming with huge semis - what the British call articulated lorries.

And just to remind you that you haven't stepped through a time machine, every now and then super-modern, delta-winged military jets scream overhead. Norfolk and Suffolk are also home to RAF Lakenheath and Mildenhall - both USAF bases.

This Itinerary

This three-day itinerary, expandable to six, focuses on the northern part of East Anglia, mostly in Norfolk (the "North Folk" if the ancient Kingdom of East Angles), with brief incursions into Cambridgeshire and Suffolk. It can be extended by several days with the Extra Day Options suggested on several pages. Since the furthest point, Norwich, is about two and a half hours (in perfect traffic conditions) from Central London, you could also turn these suggestions into several separate day trips. But don't try to pack too much into one day; if you are used to driving in North America, France or Germany, you'll find that it takes about twice as long to cover the same distance in the UK.

Distances and times are judged for automobile touring, which is the most practical way to get around this part of the country. But most destinations can also be reached by train or bus, plus the occasional taxi.

• Consult National Rail Enquiries for train times and prices.
• Visit Traveline to plan other public transportation options

Suggested Itinerary: Day 1 - Cambridge and Ely

Morning: Get an early start after your hotel or B&B breakfast because you want to miss the London and Cambridge rush hour traffic. Cambridge , home of England's second oldest university, is just over 60 miles from central London - but if you get caught up in traffic, you could spend hours just breaking free of the city.

Summer daybreak in England is much earlier than you may be used to - by 5a.m. the sun is shining brightly (if it's a sunny day, of course). That will give you a chance to walk around some of the city's open areas, beside the River Cam, to look around and simply enjoy the beauty of the place before the hustle and bustle begins.

Aim for a morning stroll along The Backs , so called because many of the University colleges back up on the riverside walks and landscaped gardens.

As the river meanders through Cambridge, it passes between some of the most beautiful college buildings. A walk along the Backs between Magdalene Street and Silver Street, crossing the many small footbridges and watching the punters on the river is a traditional highlight of a visit. It may seem like a tourist cliché, but so what? Give in to being a tourist and enjoy yourself.

Elevenses: After such an early start, you'll want to boost your energy with coffee and, perhaps, a little cake. Try a Chelsea bun with your coffee at longtime favorite Fitzbillies on Trumpington Street, or Hot Numbers in the Dales Brewery on Gwydir Street. Then take a tour to learn a little something about this fascinating place - the town had already been a thriving market town for 400 years when students fleeting a rebellion at Oxford, arrived to found the first colleges in 1209. The Tourist Information Office provides a range of walking and punting tours. Find out about the options. Alternatively, you could visit one of Cambridge's most interesting churches. Anglo Saxon St. Bene't's Church, has a tower and nave dating from 1040 A.D.making it the oldest building in Cambridgeshire. Years ago I was able to take a rubbing from the church's monumental brasses. That's no longer allowed, but you can visit the church to admire them.

Lunch: As a university town, with a student population of more than 100,000, it's no surprise that Cambridge has plenty of places for a quick, cheap lunch. There are a lot of chain cafes. For a bigger selection of independent restaurants and cafes, aim for Norfolk Street, which has a run of interesting places. Try to squeeze into the tiny Zhongua Traditional Snacks at No.13 Norfolk Street for recommended dim sim and noodle dishes.

Afternoon: Spend some time in the town's museums. There are several worth a visit, the main one being the Fitzwilliam , an enormous collection of art and antiquities behind a neoclassical facade. Or check out scientific instruments going back to the 14th century at the Whipple Museum of the History of Science.

Travel: Cambridge is 63 miles northeast of London via the M11 motorway. Leave your car in the Trumpington Park and Ride , a 15 minute bus ride from the city center.

Nighty Night Head for Ely, 17 miles north of Cambridge on the Great Ouse River and tomorrow morning's destination. The town has a good selection B&Bs and recommended restaurants. The Riverside Inn is a small B&B overlooking the town marina and right next door to one of the better restaurants for dinner, The Boat House .

Extra Day Options

Get back to nature on Wicken Fen , the National Trust's oldest nature reserve. It's a place of superlatives - England's most famous fen, Europe's most important wetland. But hey, what's great is that you might spot more than 8,000 species - birds, plants, dragonflies, otters - as you walk through lush grass or on raised boardwalks. You can hire a bike from the visitor center and cycle along miles of trails with nary a hill in sight. Or take a boat tour in the reserve's traditional, but electric powered, fen lighter.

Travel: The Wicken Fen Visitor Center on Lode Lane in Ely is about 17 miles from Cambridge on the A10 and the A1123.

Suggested Itinerary: Day 2 - Ely to Kings Lynn

Morning: Visit Ely Cathedral , one of the tallest and most beautiful cathedrals in England. Sometimes called The Ship of the Fens , it earned its nickname because the towers of the Norman Church soared over the once watery landscape of the Fens. The Norman cathedral, built between the 11th and the 14 centuries, occupies a the site of earlier Christian establishments, including a monastery founded by the daughter of an Anglo Saxon King, St. Etheldreda around 630. The tall stained glass windows that flood the pale interior and the thistle arched ceiling with dappled light are worth the visit but climb at least one of the towers for the magnificent full effect (both if you have the stamina) At 215 feet, the West Tower is the tallest, with wide views across the countryside. But The Octagon, pictured here, with its "lantern" of stained glass, lead and wood, is considered the jewel of the Cathedral. Guided tours of both towers (children must be at least 10 years old) are given several times a day. There is an admission charge. Free tours of the Cathedral are also available and are a good way to learn about this beautiful building's history. There's also a stained glass museum in the South Triforium of the Cathedral (okay, don't know what that means either, but just ask, as I did, when you get there.)

From the high church of the cathedral, head for a low church experience at Oliver Cromwell's House . Cromwell, the Lord Protector after the English Civil War, lived in Ely for ten years. To some he was a great Protestant hero while to others he was a rigid dictator - the man banned Christmas, after all. You can make up your own mind in his Ely House, the only surviving Cromwell residence (besides Hampton Court Palace), on St Mary's Street.

Lunch: If the weather is good, pick up the fixings for a picnic from a local grocers and enjoy the view of Ely Cathedral from one of the riverside parks or the Cathedral's landscaped grounds. Rather be indoors? Head for the riverside where there are several good pubs and inns.

Afternoon: Head for Kings Lynn for the afternoon. In the Middle Ages, it was one of England's most important ports. As a member of the Hanseatic League , a Medieval association of guilds across northern Europe, it was the base of merchants shipping goods from the Midlands, like coal and wool, all along the Baltic and North Sea coasts as far east as Novgorod in Russia. The League is sometimes compared to a Medieval Common Market. The town has a rich heritage of early and later Medieval buildings including one of the few Hansa warehouses still standing. While there, stop at the tourist office , in the lovely 17th century Customs House on a cobbled street by the waterfront. Pick up a leaflet for a self-guided walk around ancient landmark buildings that date from the 12th century and earlier or book a guided tour.

Travel: Kings Lynn is about 30 miles north of Ely on the A10. Along the way, pass through the market town of Downham Market to stock up on supplies.

Nighty Night After a long day sightseeing and marching around historic attractions, have an early night in Kings Lynn so that you can have an early start for the regional capital of Norwich in the morning.

Visit the Medieval Shrines to the Virgin Mary at Walsingham . The village, about 25 miles north of Kings Lynn on the A148, has been a place of pilgrimage since before Norman times. According to the story, an Anglo Saxon noblewoman had a vision of the house where Mary was born and a replica of the house was built in honor of the Annunciation.Whatever you believe about the story, the fact remains that the site has been important to religious pilgrims for 1,000 years and most important Christian denominations have shrines or pilgrimage centers there. If you aren't religious, you will probably find the place puzzling, but a stroll around the village and the shrines offers a glimpse of a millennium of devotion.

Drop in to see the Queen at Sandringham - The Royal Family's Norfolk estate, Sandringham , where they usually spend Christmas and Easter, is just 6 miles northeast of Kings Lynn and signposted from the Fakenham or the Hunstanton roads. Sandringham is the Queen's private farm estate but the house, garden and museum are open to the public from Easter to November, with a few weeks time out for the Queen's private vacations. The schedule changes from year to year but is published on the website. There is also a visitor center with shops and restaurants, open every day (except Good Friday) all year round.

Suggested Itinerary: Day 3 - Norwich

The Cathedral City of Norwich is one of England's best kept secrets. Left out of the highway building boom of the 1950s and 1960s, the city has a relaxed charm and a low key air. But don't be fooled. This is no low-key backwater, but a sophisticated university city with strong connections to the contemporary worlds of literature and the performing arts.

Travel: 46 miles east from Kings Lynn on the A47 should take you just over an hour - unless you get behind a slow moving farm vehicle.

Morning: Tackle the shops while you've got the energy - there are lots of them. All the high street brands are well represented in Norwich but the real joy is in wandering the pedestrian "Lanes" for independent shops, interesting boutiques and unusual attractions like the Colman's Mustard Shop and Museum , a replica of the Victorian shop where this popular English condiment was first made and sold. If you tire of shops, Norwich's extensive open air market , with its stalls under striped awnings, is open every day.It's a place where you can buy almost anything - from knitting yarn to claw hammers to hog roasts - food, hardware, crafts, produce. Or just walk around to absorb the market banter.

Lunch: As you've probably worked out by now, I am not a big fan of wasting valuable sightseeing time over long, leisurely lunches. Save the big feed for dinner time and build your lunchtime refreshment into your touring itinerary. You might graze the market stalls - I'm a fan of Norfolk pork buns with apple sauce from Henry's Hog Roast at stall No.81, or buy a picnic lunch from a good deli in the Lanes - Clark & Ravenscroft comes to mind - and then eat it by the River Wensum or in The Plantation Garden on Earlham Road (click on the profile highlighted above for more details). If you're into micro breweries, I'm told that the Plough on St. Benedict's Street doesn't mind if you bring your own food - so another good lunch spot.

Afternoon: Shopping done, it's time for museums, cathedrals and culture. Ease yourself into it with a different kind of retail therapy, walking up Elm Hill (antique shops and boutiques) toward the 1,000 year old Norwich Cathedral . It has the largest cloister in England and a soaring vaulted interior. It's surrounded by a Cathedral Quarter of more than 45 acres with many houses that are about 500 years old. Those are the "new" houses - the older houses were destroyed by fire about, you guessed it, about 500 years ago. If you haven't seen enough, pick up a guide to the Norwich 12 at the tourist information office (in the Forum on Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF) - a list of the city's most architecturally interesting buildings, old and new. Or you can hike up the hill to visit Norwich Castle . The Norman bastion houses an art gallery and museum of Norwich history.

Nighty Night: Because of its university and art school, Norwich has more sophisticated tastes than you might expect in such a small city. You can dine out on all sorts of British, European and Asian cuisines, have a pub meal or a pretty good pizza. Because restaurants change so often, your best bet is to check out the current copy of Hardens or the Good Food Guide , both now available as Apps, and see what you fancy.

There are a number of chain hotels in Norwich and some decent country house type accommodations in the surrounding countryside. But if you want to experience Norwich, aim for a guest house or B&B. Some of the best are within walking distance of the University of East Anglia and in the Cathedral Quarter. The tiny www.arthouseb&b.com , an eco-friendly, organic guest house with a website for a name on Grange Road regularly gets rave reviews.

Extra Day Option:

From your base in Norwich, head west toward Swaffham, the market town where Stephen Fry's television show "Kingdom" was set and partly filmed. If you go on Saturday, you can enjoy a lively market in the town's Georgian market square. While there, you can explore the Green Britain Centre and climb 300 steps to a viewing platform on one of two giant wind turbines. Then step back at least a millenia by visiting Castle Acre - just under six miles north on the A1065 then follow signs. Here you can explore the ruins of an early Norman castle (free) and a beautifully atmospheric Cluniac priory (admission charged). The village of Castle Acre has a good pub, and is on the Peddar's Way for walking enthusiasts. Read more about Swaffham and Castle Acre.

Travel: Travel west from Norwich on the A47. Swaffham is about 25 miles away and usually reachable in half an hour. For Castle Acre, drive just under 6 miles north of Swaffham and then follow signs. Find out more about getting to Norwich.

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East Anglia Travel Guide

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Strictly speaking, East Anglia is made up of just three counties – Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, which were settled in the fifth century by Angles from today’s Schleswig-Holstein – but it has come to be loosely applied to parts of Essex too. As a region it’s renowned for its wide skies and flat landscapes – if you’re looking for mountains, you’ve come to the wrong place. East Anglia can surprise, nonetheless: parts of Suffolk and Norfolk are decidedly hilly, with steep coastal cliffs; broad rivers cut through the fenlands; and Norfolk also boasts some wonderful sandy beaches. Fine medieval churches abound, built in the days when this was England’s most progressive and prosperous region.

King’s Lynn

The north norfolk coast, the stour valley, the suffolk coast.

Heading into East Anglia from the south takes you through Essex, whose proximity to London has turned much of the county into an unappetizing commuter strip. Amid the suburban gloom, there are, however, several worthwhile destinations, most notably Colchester , once a major Roman town and now a likeable place with an imposing castle, and the handsome hamlets of the bucolic Stour River Valley on the Essex–Suffolk border. Essex’s Dedham is one of the prettiest of these villages, but the prime attraction hereabouts is Suffolk’s Flatford Mill , famous for its associations with the painter John Constable.

Suffolk boasts a string of pretty little towns – Lavenham is the prime example – that enjoyed immense prosperity from the thirteenth to the sixteenth century, the heyday of the wool trade. The county town of Ipswich has more to offer than it’s given credit for, but really it’s the north Suffolk coast that holds the main appeal, especially the delightful seaside resort of Southwold and neighbouring Aldeburgh with its prestigious music festival.

Norfolk, as everyone knows thanks to Noël Coward, is very flat. It’s also one of the most sparsely populated and tranquil counties in England, a remarkable turnaround from the days when it was an economic and political powerhouse – until, that is, the Industrial Revolution simply passed it by. Its capital, Norwich , is East Anglia’s largest city, renowned for its Norman cathedral and castle; nearby are the Broads , a unique landscape of reed-ridden waterways that have been intensively exploited by boat-rental companies. Similarly popular, the Norfolk coast holds a string of busy, very English seaside resorts – Cromer and Sheringham to name but two – but for the most part it’s charmingly unspoilt, its marshes, creeks and tidal fats studded with tiny flintstone villages, most enjoyably Blakeney and Cley .

Cambridge is much visited, principally because of its world-renowned university, whose ancient colleges boast some of the finest medieval and early-modern architecture in the country. The rest of Cambridgeshire is pancake-flat fenland, for centuries an inhospitable marshland, but now rich alluvial farming land. The cathedral town of Ely , settled on one of the few areas of raised ground in the fens, is an easy and popular day-trip from Cambridge.

Given the prevailing flatness of the terrain, hiking in East Anglia is less strenuous than in most other English regions, and there are several long-distance footpaths. The main one is the Peddars Way, which runs north from Knettishall Heath, near Thetford, to the coast at Holme-next-the-Sea, near Hunstanton, where it continues east as the Norfolk Coast Path to Cromer – 93 miles in total.

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On the whole, CAMBRIDGE is a much quieter and more secluded place than Oxford, though for the visitor what really sets it apart from its scholarly rival is “ The Backs ” – the green sward of land that straddles the languid River Cam, providing exquisite views over the backs of the old colleges. At the front, the handsome facades of these same colleges dominate the layout of the town centre, lining up along the main streets. Most of the older colleges date back to the late thirteenth and early fourteenth centuries and are designed to a similar plan , with the main gate leading through to a series of “courts,” typically a carefully manicured slab of lawn surrounded on all four sides by college residences or offices. Many of the buildings are extraordinarily beautiful, but the most famous is King’s College , whose magnificent King’s College Chapel is one of the great statements of late Gothic architecture. There are 31 university colleges in total, each an independent, self-governing body, proud of its achievements and attracting – for the most part at least – a close loyalty from its students.

Note that most colleges have restricted opening times and some impose admission charges; during the exam period (late April to early June) most of them close their doors to the public at least some of the time.

Cambridge: taking a punt

Punting is the quintessential Cambridge activity, though it is, in fact, a good deal harder than it looks. First-timers find themselves zigzagging across the water and “punt jams” are very common on the stretch of the River Cam beside The Backs in summer. Punt rental is available at several points, including the boatyard at Mill Lane (beside the Silver Street bridge), at Magdalene Bridge, and at the Garret Hostel Lane bridge at the back of Trinity College. It costs around £16/hr per person (and most places charge a deposit), with up to six people in each punt. Alternatively, you can hire a chauffeured punt from any of the rental places for about £12/hr per person.

If you visit anywhere in Essex, it should be COLCHESTER , a busy sort of place with a castle , a university and an army base, fifty miles or so northeast of London. Colchester prides itself on being England’s oldest town, and there is indeed documentary evidence of a settlement here as early as the fifth century BC. Today, Colchester makes a potential base for explorations of the surrounding countryside – particularly the Stour valley towns of Constable country, within easy reach a few miles to the north.

Brief history

By the first century AD, the town was the region’s capital under King Cunobelin – better known as Shakespeare’s Cymbeline – and when the Romans invaded Britain in 43 AD they chose Colchester (Camulodunum) as their new capital, though it was soon eclipsed by London. Later, the conquering Normans built one of their mightiest strongholds in Colchester, but the conflict that most marked the town was the Civil War . In 1648, Colchester was subjected to a gruelling siege by the Parliamentarian army; after three months, during which the population ate every living creature within the walls, the town finally surrendered and the Royalist leaders were promptly executed for their pains.

At the heart of Colchester are the remains of its castle , a ruggedly imposing, honey-coloured keep, set in attractive parkland stretching down to the River Colne. Begun less than ten years after the Battle of Hastings, the keep was the largest in Europe at the time, built on the site of the Temple of Claudius. Inside the keep, a museum holds an excellent collection of Romano-British archeological finds, notably a miscellany of coins and tombstones. The museum also runs regular guided tours , giving access to the Roman vaults, the Norman chapel and the castle roof, which are otherwise out of bounds. Outside, down towards the river in Castle Park, is a section of the old Roman walls , whose battered remains are still visible around much of the town centre. They were erected after Boudicca had sacked the city and, as such, are a case of too little too late.

Perched on a mound of clay above the River Great Ouse about thirty miles south of King’s Lynn, the attractive little town of ELY – literally “eel island” – was to all intents and purposes a true island until the draining of the fens in the seventeenth century. Until then, the town was encircled by treacherous marshland, which could only be crossed with the help of the local “fen-slodgers” who knew the firm tussock paths. In 1070, Hereward the Wake turned this inaccessibility to military advantage, holding out against the Normans and forcing William the Conqueror to undertake a prolonged siege – and finally to build an improvised road floated on bundles of sticks. Centuries later, the Victorian writer Charles Kingsley resurrected this obscure conflict in his novel Hereward the Wake . He presented the protagonist as the Last of the English who “never really bent their necks to the Norman yoke and … kept alive those free institutions which were the germs of our British liberty” – a heady mixture of nationalism and historical poppycock that went down a storm.

Since then, Ely has been associated with Hereward, which is a little ridiculous as Ely is, above all else, a Norman town. The Normans built the cathedral , a towering structure visible for miles across the flat fenland landscape and Ely’s main sight. The rest of Ely is pretty enough: to the immediate north of the church is the High Street , a slender thoroughfare lined with old-fashioned shops, and the river is a relaxing spot with a riverside footpath, a tearoom or two, a small art gallery and an entertainment complex.

IPSWICH , situated at the head of the Orwell estuary, was a rich trading port in the Middle Ages, but its appearance today is mainly the result of a revival of fortunes in the Victorian era – give or take some clumsy postwar development. The two surviving reminders of old Ipswich – Christchurch Mansion and the splendid Ancient House – plus the recently renovated quayside are all reason enough to spend at least an afternoon here, and there’s also the Cornhill , the ancient Saxon marketplace and still the town’s focal point, an agreeable urban space flanked by a bevy of imposing Victorian edifices – the Italianate town hall, the old Neoclassical Post Office and the grandiose pseudo-Jacobean Lloyds building.

Straddling the canalized mouth of the River Great Ouse a mile or so before it slides into The Wash, King’s Lynn is an ancient port whose merchants grew rich importing fish from Scandinavia, timber from the Baltic and wine from France, while exporting wool, salt and corn. The good times came to an end when the focus of maritime trade moved to the Atlantic seaboard, but its port struggled on until it was reinvigorated in the 1970s by the burgeoning trade between the UK and the EU. Much of the old centre was demolished during the 1960s and as a result most of Lynn – as it’s known locally – is not especially enticing, but it does have a cluster of handsome old riverside buildings , and its lively, open-air markets attract large fenland crowds.

The first place of any note on the north Norfolk coast is Cromer , a seaside town whose steep and blustery cliffs have drawn tourists for over a century. A few miles to the west is another well-established resort, Sheringham , but thereafter the shoreline becomes a ragged patchwork of salt marshes, dunes and shingle spits which form a series of nature reserves, supporting a fascinating range of flora and fauna. It’s a lovely stretch of coast and the villages bordering it, principally Cley , Blakeney and Wells-next-the-Sea , are prime targets for an overnight stay.

A mile or so west of Cley, delightful BLAKENEY was once a bustling port exporting fish, corn and salt, and is now a lovely little place of pebble-covered cottages sloping up from a narrow harbour. Crab sandwiches are sold from stalls at the quayside, the meandering high street is flanked by family-run shops, and footpaths stretch out along the sea wall to east and west, allowing long, lingering looks over the salt marshes.

Blakeney harbour is linked to the sea by a narrow channel that wriggles its way through the salt marshes and is only navigable for a few hours at high tide. At low tide the harbour is no more than a muddy creek (ideal for a bit of quayside crabbing and mud sliding).

Blakeney boat trips

Depending on the tides, there are boat trips from either Blakeney or Morston quay , a mile or so to the west, to both Blakeney Point – where passengers have a couple of hours at the point before being ferried back – and to the seal colony just off the point. The main operators advertise departure times on blackboards by the quayside; you can reserve in advance with Beans Boats or Bishop’s Boats.

CLEY (more formally Cley-next-the-Sea ), once a busy wool port, is now little more than a row of flint cottages and Georgian mansions set beside a narrow, marshy inlet that (just) gives access to the sea. The sea once dipped further inland, which explains why Cley’s fine medieval church of St Margaret is located half a mile to the south, at the very edge of the current village, overlooking the green. You’re near a couple of splendid nature reserves here, both excellent destinations for birdwatchers – and don’t miss the Cley Smoke House for superb locally smoked fish.

Dramatically poised on a high bluff, CROMER should be the most memorable of the Norfolk coastal resorts, but its fine aspect has long been undermined by a certain shabbiness in its narrow streets and alleys. Things are at last on the mend, with new businesses arriving to add a touch of flair, while the town council keeps a string of cliff-top mini-parks and gardens in immaculate condition.

It’s no more than the place deserves: Cromer has a long history, first as a prosperous medieval port – witness the tower of St Peter and St Paul , at 160ft the tallest in Norfolk – and then as a fashionable watering hole after the advent of the railway in the 1880s. There are three things you must do here: take a walk on the beach, stroll out onto the pier , and, of course, grab a crab: Cromer crabs are famous right across England and several places sell them, reliably fresh, and cooked and stuffed every which way.

The Norfolk Broads

Three rivers – the Yare, Waveney and Bure – meander across the flatlands to the east of Norwich, converging on Breydon Water before flowing into the sea at Great Yarmouth. In places these rivers swell into wide expanses of water known as “ broads ”, which for years were thought to be natural lakes. In fact they’re the result of extensive peat cutting, several centuries of accumulated diggings made in a region where wood was scarce and peat a valuable source of energy. The pits flooded when sea levels rose in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries to create these Norfolk Broads , now one of the most important wetlands in Europe – a haven for many birds such as kingfishers, grebes and warblers – and one of the county’s major tourist attractions. Looking after the Broads, the Broads Authority maintains a series of information centres throughout the region.

The Norfolk Broads are crisscrossed by roads and rail lines, but the best – really the only – way to see them is by boat , and you could happily spend a week or so exploring the 125 miles of lock-free navigable waterways, visiting the various churches, pubs and windmills en route. Of the many boat rental companies, Blakes and Norfolk Broads Boating Holidays, are both well established and have rental outlets at Wroxham , seven miles northeast of Norwich – and easy to reach by train, bus and car. Prices for cruisers start at around £700 a week for four people in peak season, but less expensive, short-term rentals are widely available too. Houseboats are much cheaper than cruisers, but they are, of course, static.

Trying to explore the Broads by car is pretty much a waste of time, but cyclists and walkers can take advantage of the region’s network of footpaths and cycle trails. There are Broads Authority bike rental points dotted around the region and walkers might consider the 56-mile Weavers’ Way, a long-distance footpath that winds through the best parts of the Broads on its way from Cromer to Great Yarmouth. There are many shorter options too. As for specific sights for landlubbers and boaters alike, one prime target is Toad Hole Cottage , an old eel-catcher’s cottage holding a small exhibit on the history of the trade, which was common in the area until the 1940s. The cottage is at How Hill, close to the hamlet of Ludham , six miles east of Wroxham on the A1062. Behind the cottage is the narrow River Ant, where there are hour-long, wildlife-viewing boat trips in the Electric Eel .

Holkham Bay

The footpaths latticing Holkham Hall estate stretch as far as the A149, from where a half-mile byroad – Lady Anne’s Drive – leads north across the marshes from opposite the Victoria Hotel to Holkham Bay , which boasts one of the finest beaches on this stretch of coast, with golden sand and pine-studded sand dunes. Warblers, flycatchers and redstarts inhabit the drier coastal reaches, while waders paddle about the mud and salt flats.

One of the five largest cities in Norman England, NORWICH once served a vast hinterland of East Anglian cloth producers , whose work was brought here by river and then exported elsewhere. Its isolated position beyond the Fens meant that it enjoyed closer links with the Low Countries than with the rest of England and, by 1700, Norwich was the second richest city in the country after London. With the onset of the Industrial Revolution, however, Norwich lost ground to the northern manufacturing towns – the city’s famous mustard company, Colman’s, is one of its few industrial success stories – and this has helped preserve much of the ancient street plan and many of the city’s older buildings. Pride of place goes to the beautiful cathedral and the sterling castle , but the city’s hallmark is its medieval churches , thirty or so squat flintstone structures with sturdy towers and sinuous stone tracery round the windows. Many are no longer in regular use and are now in the care of the Norwich Historic Churches Trust , whose website describes each church in precise detail.

Norwich’s relative isolation has also meant that the population has never swelled to any great extent and today, with just 140,000 inhabitants, it remains an easy and enjoyable city. Yet Norwich is no provincial backwater. In the 1960s, the foundation of the University of East Anglia (UEA) made it more cosmopolitan and bolstered its arts scene, while in the 1980s it attracted new high-tech companies, who created something of a mini-boom, making the city one of England’s wealthiest. As East Anglia’s unofficial capital, Norwich also lies at the hub of the region’s transport network, serving as a useful base for visiting the Broads and as a springboard for the north Norfolk coast.

The Cathedral

Of all the medieval buildings in Norwich , it’s the Cathedral that fires the imagination: a mighty, sand-coloured structure finessed by its prickly octagonal spire, it rises to a height of 315ft, second only to Salisbury Cathedral in Wiltshire. Entered via the Hostry, a glassy, well-proportioned visitor centre, the interior is pleasantly light thanks to a creamy tint in the stone and the clear glass windows of much of the nave , where the thick pillars are a powerful legacy of the Norman builders who began the cathedral in 1096. The nave’s architectural highlight is the ceiling, a finely crafted affair whose delicate and geometrically precise fan vaulting is adorned by several dozen roof bosses . Pushing on down the south (right) side of the ambulatory, you soon reach St Luke’s Chapel and the cathedral’s finest work of art, the Despenser Reredos , a superb painted panel commissioned to celebrate the crushing of the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381. Accessible from the south aisle of the nave are the cathedral’s unique cloisters . Built between 1297 and 1450, and the only two-storey cloisters left standing in England, they contain a remarkable set of sculpted bosses , similar to the ones in the main nave, but here they are close enough to be scrutinized without binoculars. The dominant theme of the fabulously intricate carving is the Apocalypse , but look out also for the bosses depicting green men, originally pagan fertility symbols.

The cathedral precincts

Outside, in front of the main entrance, stands the medieval Canary Chapel . This is the original building of Norwich School, whose blue-blazered pupils are often visible during term time – the rambling school buildings are adjacent. A statue of the school’s most famous boy, Horatio Nelson , faces the chapel, standing on the green of the Upper Close , which is guarded by two ornate and imposing medieval gates, Erpingham and, a few yards to the south, Ethelbert . Beside the Erpingham gate is a memorial to Edith Cavell , a local woman who was a nurse in occupied Brussels during World War I. She was shot by the Germans in 1915 for helping allied prisoners to escape, a fate that made her an instant folk hero; her grave is outside the cathedral ambulatory. Both gates lead onto the old Saxon marketplace, Tombland , a wide and busy thoroughfare whose name derives from the Saxon word for an open space.

The Market Place

From Blackfriars Hall , it’s a short walk through to the city’s Market Place , site of one of the country’s largest open-air markets (closed Sun), with stalls selling everything from bargain-basement clothes to local mussels and whelks. Four very different but equally distinctive buildings oversee the market’s stripy awnings, the oldest of them being the fifteenth-century Guildhall , a capacious flint and stone structure begun in 1407. Opposite, commanding the heights of the marketplace, are the austere City Hall , a lumbering brick pile with a landmark clocktower that was built in the 1930s in a Scandinavian style, and The Forum , a large and flashy, glassy structure completed in 2001. The latter is home to the city’s main library and the tourist office. On the south side of Market Place is the finest of the four buildings, St Peter Mancroft , whose long and graceful nave leads to a mighty stone tower, an intricately carved affair surmounted by a spiky little spire.

Back outside and just below the church is Gentlemen’s Walk , the town’s main promenade, which runs along the bottom of the marketplace and abuts the Royal Arcade , an Art Nouveau extravagance from 1899. The arcade has been beautifully restored to reveal the swirling tiling, ironwork and stained glass.

For more inspiration and practical information read our 15 reasons to visit Norfolk .

Six miles or so north of Colchester, the Stour River Valley forms the border between Essex and Suffolk, and signals the beginning of East Anglia proper. The valley is dotted with lovely little villages, where rickety, half-timbered Tudor houses and elegant Georgian dwellings cluster around medieval churches, proud buildings with square, self-confident towers. The Stour’s prettiest villages are concentrated along its lower reaches – to the east of the A134 – in Dedham Vale, with Dedham the most appealing of them all. The vale is also known as “ Constable Country ”, as it was the home of John Constable, one of England’s greatest artists, and the subject of his most famous paintings. Inevitably, there’s a Constable shrine – the much-visited complex of old buildings down by the river at Flatford Mill . Elsewhere, the best-preserved of the old south Suffolk wool towns is Lavenham ; nearby Sudbury has a fine museum, devoted to the work of another talented English artist, Thomas Gainsborough.

The villages along the River Stour and its tributaries were once busy little places at the heart of East Anglia’s medieval weaving trade. By the 1490s, the region produced more cloth than any other part of the country, but in Tudor times production shifted to Colchester, Ipswich and Norwich and, although most of the smaller settlements continued spinning cloth for the next three hundred years or so, their importance slowly dwindled. Bypassed by the Industrial Revolution, south Suffolk had, by the late nineteenth century, become a remote rural backwater, an impoverished area whose decline had one unforeseen consequence: with few exceptions, the towns and villages were never prosperous enough to modernize, and the architectural legacy of medieval and Tudor times survived.

Constable went to school in DEDHAM , just upriver from Flatford Mill and one of the region’s prettiest villages, its wide and lazy main street graced by a handsome medley of old timber-framed houses and Georgian villas. Day-trippers arrive here by the coach load throughout the summer.

Flatford Mill

“I associate my careless boyhood with all that lies on the banks of the Stour,” wrote John Constable , who was born in East Bergholt , nine miles northeast of Colchester in 1776. The house in which he was born has long since disappeared, so it has been left to FLATFORD MILL , a mile or so to the south, to take up the painter’s cause. The mill was owned by his father and was where Constable painted his most celebrated canvas, The Hay Wain (now in London’s National Gallery), which created a sensation when it was exhibited in Paris in 1824. To the chagrin of many of his contemporaries, Constable turned away from the landscape painting conventions of the day, rendering his scenery with a realistic directness that harked back to the Dutch landscape painters of the seventeenth century.

The mill itself – not the one he painted, but a Victorian replacement – is not open to the public and neither is neighbouring Willy Lott’s Cottage , which does actually feature in The Hay Wain , but the National Trust has colonized several local buildings, principally Bridge Cottage .

LAVENHAM , eight miles northeast of Sudbury, was once a centre of the region’s wool trade and is now one of the most visited villages in Suffolk, thanks to its unrivalled ensemble of perfectly preserved half-timbered houses. In outward appearance at least, the whole place has changed little since the demise of the wool industry, owing in part to a zealous local preservation society, which has carefully maintained the village’s antique appearance. Lavenham is at its most beguiling in the triangular Market Place , an airy spot flanked by pastel-painted, medieval dwellings whose beams have been warped into all sorts of wonky angles by the passing of the years.

The Suffolk coast feels detached from the rest of the county: the road and rail lines from Ipswich to the seaport of Lowestoft funnel traffic a few miles inland for most of the way, and patches of marsh and woodland make the separation still more complete. The coast has long been plagued by erosion and this has contributed to the virtual extinction of the local fishing industry, and, in the case of Dunwich , almost destroyed the whole town. What is left, however, is undoubtedly one of the most unspoilt shorelines in the country – if, that is, you set aside the Sizewell nuclear power station. Highlights include the sleepy isolation of minuscule Orford and several genteel resorts, most notably Southwold and Aldeburgh, which have both evaded the lurid fate of so many English seaside towns. There are scores of delightful walks around here too, easy routes along the coast that are best followed with either the appropriate OS Explorer Map or the simplified footpath maps available at most tourist offices. The Suffolk coast is also host to East Anglia’s most compelling cultural gathering, the three-week-long Aldeburgh Festival , which takes place every June.

Well-heeled ALDEBURGH , just along the coast from Orford, is best known for its annual arts festival , the brainchild of composer Benjamin Britten (1913–76), who is buried in the village churchyard alongside the tenor Peter Pears, his lover and musical collaborator. They lived by the seafront in Crag House on Crabbe Street – named after the poet, George Crabbe, who provided Britten with his greatest inspiration – before moving to a large house a few miles away.

Outside of June, Aldeburgh is a relaxed and low-key coastal resort, with a small fishing fleet selling its daily catch from wooden shacks along the pebbled shore. Aldeburgh’s slightly old-fashioned/local shop appearance is fiercely defended by its citizens, who caused an almighty rumpus – Barbours at dawn – when Maggi Hambling’s 13ft-high Scallop sculpture appeared on the beach in 2003. Hambling described the sculpture as a conversation with the sea and a suitable memorial to Britten; many disgruntled locals compared it to a mantelpiece ornament gone wrong.

Aldeburgh’s wide High Street and its narrow side streets run close to the beach, but this was not always the case – hence their quixotic appearance. The sea swallowed much of what was once an extensive medieval town long ago and today Aldeburgh’s oldest remaining building, the sixteenth-century, red-brick, flint and timber Moot Hall , which began its days in the centre of town, now finds itself on the seashore. Several footpaths radiate out from Aldeburgh, with the most obvious trail leading north along the coast to Thorpeness, and others going southwest to the winding estuary of the River Alde .

Benjamin Britten and the Aldeburgh Festival

Born in Lowestoft in 1913, Benjamin Britten was closely associated with Suffolk for most of his life. The main break was during World War II when, as a conscientious objector, Britten exiled himself to the USA. Ironically enough, it was here that Britten first read the work of the nineteenth-century Suffolk poet, George Crabbe, whose The Borough , a grisly portrait of the life of the fishermen of Aldeburgh, was the basis of the libretto of Britten’s best-known opera, Peter Grimes , which was premiered in London in 1945 to great acclaim. In 1948, Britten launched the Aldeburgh Festival as a showpiece for his own works and those of his contemporaries. He lived in the village for the next ten years, during which time he completed much of his finest work as a conductor and pianist. For the rest of his life he composed many works specifically for the festival, including his masterpiece for children, Noye’s Fludde , and the last of his fifteen operas, Death in Venice .

By the mid-1960s, the festival had outgrown the parish churches in which it began, and moved into a collection of disused malthouses, five miles west of Aldeburgh on the River Alde, just south of the small village of Snape . The complex, the Snape Maltings were subsequently converted into one of the finest concert venues in the country and, in addition to the concert hall, there are now recording studios, galleries, a tearoom, and a pub, the Plough & Sail .

The Aldeburgh Festival takes place every June for two and a half weeks. Core performances are still held at the Maltings, but a string of other local venues are pressed into service as well. Throughout the rest of the year, the Maltings hosts a wide-ranging programme of musical and theatrical events, including the three-day Britten Festival in October. For more information, contact Aldeburgh Music , which operates two box offices, one at Snape Maltings, the other on Aldeburgh High Street in premises it shares with the tourist office. Tickets for the Aldeburgh Festival usually go on sale to the public towards the end of March, and sell out fast for the big-name recitals.

Some twenty miles from Ipswich, on the far side of Tunstall Forest, two medieval buildings dominate the tiny, eminently appealing village of ORFORD . The more impressive is the twelfth-century castle , built on high ground by Henry II, and under siege within months of its completion from Henry’s rebellious sons. Most of the castle disappeared centuries ago, but the lofty keep remains, its striking stature hinting at the scale of the original fortifications. Orford’s other medieval edifice is St Bartholomew’s church , where Benjamin Britten premiered his most successful children’s work, Noye’s Fludde , as part of the 1958 Aldeburgh Festival.

Perched on robust cliffs just to the north of the River Blyth, SOUTHWOLD had become, by the sixteenth century, Suffolk’s busiest fishing port. Eventually, however, it lost most of its fishery to neighbouring Lowestoft and today, although a small fleet still brings in herring, sprats and cod, the town is primarily a seaside resort, a genteel and eminently appealing little place with none of the crassness of many of its competitors. There are fine Georgian buildings, a long sandy beach, open heathland, a dinky harbour and even a little industry – in the shape of the Adnams brewery – but no burger bars and certainly no amusement arcades. This gentility was not to the liking of George Orwell , who lived for a time at his parents’ house at 36 High St (a plaque marks the spot); who knows what he might have made of Southwold’s major music festival, Latitude , which spreads over four days in the middle of July with happy campers grubbing down in Henham Park beside the A12 about five miles west of town.

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East Anglia family road trip – through history

With its endless fields of green, broken by splashes of bright yellow flowers in bloom, twisting country roads leading to shingle beaches and the sea, travelling through Suffolk can feel like rediscovering England of long ago.

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And it’s not just the peace of a gentler pace of life. Because dig a little deeper – literally in one case – and you discover the country’s history in microcosm.

In one long weekend, we travelled around East Anglia, from Suffolk to Cambridgeshire, and through two thousand years – from the Roman invasion of Britain and the revolt by Boudicca and the Iceni through Anglo Saxon treasure, medieval life and on to Georgian times.

Fortunately our own chariot for this road trip through time was rather more comfortable than Boudicca’s must have been, in a new Hyundai Kona whose aircon and ventilated seats were put to the test on the hottest bank holiday weekend since records began, and whose satnav confidently directed us from coast to countryside and back again.

Lent to us for the weekend, we squeezed it down village lanes and cruised along the motorway, my husband’s iphone plugged into Apple CarPlay to provide our soundtrack – and audio books, for when my daughter got fed up of his playlist – along with plenty of high-tech options to warn us about speed limits, cars in our blind spot and unexpected hazards as we reversed into tight corners on single track passing places.

For more great ideas of road trip activities with kids , as well as the best road trip snacks for kids , check out my top tips

East Anglia family road trip: The Romans

Our goal was the sea: Aldeburgh to be precise, where our cottage sat minutes from the stony beach, from some fantastic fish and chips and from the town’s Tudor Moot Hall, still used for council meetings today.

Tucked away downstairs is Aldeburgh’s small museum , a treasure trove of assorted exhibits, from butterfly collections in specially made drawers to items from the town’s maritime past and a quirkily ancient Saxon claw beaker, complete with claws.

Overseeing it all, with a blank-eyed regal stare, sits the head of the Emperor Claudius, ruler of the Roman Empire during the invasion of Britain.

This bust is actually a replica, the original is preserved in the British Museum after being found in the river Alde not far from Saxmundham – hacked from the head of a statue and thrown into the waters by Boudicca, according to the accompanying information.

Of course it might not have been the warrior queen herself, and the vicious dents and decapitation might not have occurred when the Iceni revolted and sacked modern-day Colchester… but it makes a good story, especially for a five-year-old who likes her royalty more proactive than princessy.

East Anglia family road trip: The Anglo-Saxons

For a true treasure trove, you need only look 15 miles down the road – to Sutton Hoo . The ancient Britons had been vanquished, the conquering Romans left, and across the narrow sea came the Angles and Saxons.

And if their royal capital at nearby Rendlesham has vanished over time, one spectacular treasure remains. Uncovered on the eve of the Second World War, a small team of archaeologists discovered “the find of a lifetime” in the mounds here.

Hidden under the grassy humps lay the final resting place of the King of the Wuffinga, Raedwald, King of East Anglia who ruled here in the 7th century.

Renowned for his victory over the Kingdom of Northumbria, an early convert to Christianity (if not an entirely committed one), he was buried in 625AD with his boat and treasures.

The ghost of the hull could still be seen on the sandy soil, almost 1,400 years on, long after the wood itself had rotted away.

But the precious items had survived, from a Byzantine bowl to a collection of 37 gold coins, golden jewellery decorated with tiny garnets and enamel, and a fabulously intricate metal helmet adorned with silver and gilt.

As I marvelled at the detail, complex patterns showing intertwined dragons, and wondered at the influence this ancient people still had on our English language and culture today, my daughter had started tracking down the first couple of clues on her kids’ treasure trail and arming herself with wooden sword and more lightweight replica helmet.

I couldn’t help feeling the spirit of Boudicca might still be at work.

But the exhibition hall at Sutton Hoo is only the start. Cleverly designed to give enough information for adults intrigued by the significance of what was unearthed, it’s also accessible enough for children, with music and poetry to listen to, a reconstruction of the burial mound to explore inside and animal spotting among the bejewelled decorations.

More gruesomely, there’s also the puzzle of the ‘sand men’, the remnants of multiple burials in a nearby site.

Then armed with our trail map, we headed out for the burial mounds. With enough time, there are several circular walks you can take around the grounds, but ours led us straight to the field where the treasure was found, past a couple of inquisitive sheep and a sculpture representing Raedwald’s queen surrounded by the grave’s treasures.

From the viewing platform, you can get a sense of what people must have seen for centuries, ripples in the field, once much higher, stretching off across the landscape.

One final stop in Tranmer House, itself frozen in the more recent past, around the Second World War when the excavations took place and when the house itself was used by the War Office.

After attempting to piece the shards of a shattered pot back together, we checked out the traditional toys in the living room and eyed up the glamorous clothes belonging to the lady of the house.

Then time for cicen and wyrtmete… alias chicken salad, in the café.

East Anglia family road trip: The Plantagenets

Perched on top of its own grassy mound, Orford Castle towers 90ft high, a symbol of royal power to leave no-one in any doubt about just who was in charge: Henry II, Duke of Normandy and England’s first Plantagenet king, who returned law and order to the country after the Anarchy.

These days, the stone keep towers above the pretty village of Orford, home to the fabulous Pump Street Bakery (have a raspberry doughnut. And some focaccia. Have everything, in fact).

Two lions hold up the castle on the sign but the only thing to disturb the tranquility was an occasional faulty car alarm on the other side of the village, and my daughter squealing with glee as she sprinted up the hill.

Built in the 12th century, in Byzantine style, within the stone walls we found the legend of the wild man of Orford who was caught in fishermen’s nets and held here, a chapel with unusual glass windows, a maze of passages leading down to the basement well and small chambers for VIPs.

Climbing the 91 steps of the spiral staircase, original tiles decorate the walls in the old bakehouse, kept isolated on top of the keep in case of fire. And some wonderful views stretch out across the river to the countryside and Orford Ness nature reserve.

East Anglia family road trip: medieval villages

Not long after Henry II was busy building castles, 70 miles away a small group were laying the foundations of something which has endured much longer… Cambridge University.

Leaving Suffolk for Cambridgeshire, we were staying in medieval times with a quick visit to the world’s fourth-oldest surviving university, founded in 1209 after scholars fled Oxford following trouble between town and gown.

Tempting though it was to stop and discover more of the colleges, including the oldest, Peterhouse, or delve even further back into history at the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences with fossils and rocks dating back 4.5 billion years, we were headed into the countryside, along the historic Wimpole Way .

For some of the best things to do in Cambridge with kids , check out my top picks in this post

Stretching from Cambridge to Wimpole, a village mentioned in the Domesday book, it’s a 13-mile walk… or a rather quicker drive through some gorgeous little English villages.

From Coton, which was settled around the same time Raedwald ruled and whose church was founded not long before Orford got its castle, we headed on to Hardwick, once home to a Benedictine monastery.

There’s still a lovely 13th century church, with overgrown gravestones around the front – I couldn’t help feeling it wouldn’t have changed much for centuries.

Then onwards to Caldecote with its pretty houses and Kingston, which would once have belonged to the king: from the road we could spy the signs for the Wimpole Way and toyed with the idea of me racing the Hyundai for one stretch, taking the shorter footpath as the car was diverted the longer way round.

With the temperatures soaring into the high 20s, I decided to enjoy the blue skies and scenery from the comfort of my seat though.

But the church at Kingston tempted me out. Stepping into the cool stone interior, you can still see medieval wall paintings – faded and eroded with time, it’s a reminder that once these simple country churches would have been decorated from floor to ceiling.

And for almost 800 years, the white winged angels – now just an outline – would have soared above the congregation.

East Anglia family road trip: Georgian grandeur

Owned by Earls and the daughter of a famous author, visited by a Queen – today, the only descendants of the 18th century inhabitants living on the Wimpole Estate have their homes in the farm.

This is where the Wimpole Way finishes, at Wimpole Hall with its fabulous 18th century mansion, gorgeous gardens and traditional farmyard, where you’ll find 18th and 19th century rare breed animals.

On a hot bank holiday weekend, the car park was heaving and the cafes had had a run on ice cream but once we spread out across the grounds, you’d hardly have guessed how many people were inside. Plus, as it’s a National Trust property, there were still scones… phew.

Tiny new rare breed lambs were curled up napping next to their mothers, in from the fields for the time being. At the other end of the scale, gigantic shire horses loomed high in their stalls at the stable.

After watching the mischievous goats play, we visited the piggery – with its variety of breeds and piles of piglets – at speed after my daughter discovered one timeless truth: pig poo smells…

Rather more civilised was the mansion itself, deliciously cool in the sunshine.

Armed with another activity trail to follow, we trooped off animal spotting, before marvelling at the ornate bed which looked like it had taken inspiration from a chocolate box (and only just fitted into the room after being moved upstairs from its original ground floor home) and wondering how many people would have fitted in the huge plunge bath.

Contemplating a final wander in the walled garden, my daughter looked at me and whispered: “Mummy, I’ve had a lovely weekend… but can we go home now?”

So we did. But we followed in the footsteps of Emperor Claudius’ legions, and took the old Roman Ermine Road back to London to do it.

For more ideas of the best things to do in Suffolk with kids , check out my top picks

Discover the complete Ancient Route Road Trip series

• Gretta Schifano explored the Pilgrims’ Way by car travelling from Winchester to Canterbury
• Kirstie Pelling headed into the hills of the Lake District, on a scenic drive from fell to coast along the Hard Knott Road
• Ting Dalton hunted for fossils on a four-day trip along the Jurassic Coast in Dorset
• Nichola West travelled along the Great Stones Way in Wiltshire

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Hyundai, who also loaned us the Kona for our East Anglia road trip. The route and places we visited were our own choice, but we also received free entry into Sutton Hoo and Wimpole Hall courtesy of the National Trust. All opinions and sword-wielding mini warriors are my own. The post also contains affiliate links: This post contains affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission

PIN FOR LATER: A FAMILY ROAD TRIP IN EAST ANGLIA

All images copyright MummyTravels

Award-winning family travel blogger and mum to the mini traveller, aka Minnie. Together we've visited Europe, America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia, tried a cruise and a road trip, and survived countless long-haul trips. London (UK) based. Serious beach habit.

18 Comments

Phew! You really packed so much in in just one weekend. And what a glorious weekend it was to! Thank goodness you had the aircon and ventilated seats!

It really was the most gorgeous weekend – very glad to have a well-equipped car whisking us around as we explore.

This is fascinating Cathy – I really want to go to Sutton Hoo after reading this. The car sounds like it was ideal for the trip, especially with the cooling seats!

It is the most fascinating place – the thought of a king buried with his treasure for 1,400 years seems straight out of legend. And those seats were blissful in the sunshine as we drove around, my new favourite thing.

East Anglia is a wonderful place. Great guide!

East Anglia isn’t a place I’ve ever explored. This looks like a really good history trail. Our eldest is hoping to apply to Oxbridge this year so we may come and follow in your footsteps! You photos look beautiful and the car even lovelier. All those blues!

Thank you! We could have added a lot more with more time too – Cambridge itself, of course, and Colchester for starters but a gorgeous place to explore even with just a few days.

What a cool family road trip! Love how you find all these cool places that make history so alive for kids – I’d love to bring my two, i feel a trip around the UK is overdue, we need to come!

Thanks! I do love a bit of a wander through the past – and it’s a good reminder of how much there is to explore in the UK, which I do forget at times.

This looks like such an amazing trip Cathy. You really packed it in! It’s not an area of the country I know well at all and would really like to visit, especially with all the history. Loving that car too!

It’s one I keep meaning to explore more too – we’re not that far away so I must plan a few more visits, especially after such a lovely break. Back in my own everyday car though, sadly 🙂

Having a comfortable and reliable car is so important for a road trip. We haven’t ventured to this part of England yet but it looks like a wonderful place to explore with our children. They will especially enjoy hearing all about the King of the Wuffinga, Raedwald, King of East Anglia and his discovery.

Sutton Hoo is such a fantastic site, amazing to think it survived all those centuries – and I totally agree, a road trip without a great car is a lot less fun.

What a delightful road trip this would be! I love medieval history so wandering through those towns would be just magical. Great to explore with the kids too of course!

Definitely, some great places to relive history.

These are my favorite kind of road trips… beautiful scenery and history!

Mine too! 🙂

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Top 10 places to visit in the East of England (+ East Anglia)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 17, 2022

Historic cities, beautiful countryside, a stunning coastline, and abundant wildlife are just some of the attractions waiting to be discovered by visitors to the East of England and East Anglia region of England. In this introductory guide, we explore some of the must-visit places in the region.

The East of England (and East Anglia) are composed of the counties of Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Bedfordshire, and Hertfordshire. Famous for being rather flat the area traditionally called East Anglia (Suffolk/Norfolk) is famous for waterways, fens, fishing and farming.

Are you planning to explore the East of England? In this article you will discover ten of the best places to visit in this beautiful part of the UK.

CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY

• NORFOLK'S ROYAL COAST

THE BROADS NATIONAL PARK

Bury – st – edmunds, suffolk coast (area of outstanding natural beauty), norfolk seaside towns – great yarmouth & cromer, audley end house and gardens, ipswich and constable country, plan your visit to the east of england.

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND

If you are planning to visit East England, a stop in Cambridge would most certainly be in order.

Only a 45-minute train ride from London, Cambridge is the ultimate college town, as it’s home to the world-renowned University of Cambridge.

Founded in 1209 and formally incorporated several hundred years later, Cambridge sits on the River Cam and is divided into several university colleges, including King’s College with its lovely Gothic chapel and St. John’s College, with its 16th century Great Gate.

Visitors who appreciate architecture will be in heaven. Examples of medieval, renaissance, baroque and neoclassical styles can be found throughout the campus.

If the weather is cooperative, there’s nothing like taking a punting trip on the River Cam. A punt is a small, flat-bottomed boat steered by an operator using a pole. Punting is a local tradition as well as a marvellous way to enjoy the sights of the town.

Read more – Cambridge Travel Guide

Explore more – Discover 21 of the best castles to visit in England

If you’re looking for places to visit in East Anglia, you must make time for Norwich, as it is truly a destination that has something for everyone.

For those who love the bustle of city life, Norwich offers a vibrant cultural scene that includes art galleries, restaurants, pubs, shops and an exciting nightlife. It is also home to Europe’s largest covered market.

For those seeking something more peaceful, Norwich is the only city that can be found inside of a national park, so it is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a nature escape.

Norwich also has a rich history — during the Middle Ages, it was England’s second-largest city after London. Today’s visitors can follow the city’s cobbled streets and visit Norwich Castle, a motte-and-bailey fortification built by William the Conqueror. The spire of Norwich’s Norman Cathedral tops 315 feet and is an iconic feature of the Norwich skyline.

NORFOLK’S ROYAL COAST

Norfolk’s Royal Coast is 90 miles of breathtaking coastline known for unspoiled beaches, abundant wildlife, wetlands and historic seaside villages.

For those interested in the Royal Family, Sandringham House is a must-do while visiting the Royal Coast. It is the private country retreat of Queen Elizabeth II that sits on 20,000 acres.

It houses an amazing selection of art and family portraits but Sandringham’s astonishing grounds are what visitors tend to love the most. You could easily spend hours enjoying the formal gardens, sprawling lawns and neatly maintained lakes.

For nature in a more pristine setting, visit The Wash, England’s largest bay that runs from Skegness to Hunstanton. Its wetlands, salt marshes and mudflats are home to an abundant array of wildlife that feeds there throughout the autumn and winter.

For a little maritime history, travel to Kings Lynn, a charming seaport and market town on the River Ouse. Soak in the Georgian architecture and seek out the medieval merchant houses, Minister Church, Town Hall and Guildhall.

For nature lovers, one of the best places to visit in Norfolk is The Broads National Park . It is a man-made, nationally protected wetland that was created in medieval times as the result of the local demand for peat.

Starting in the 12th century, residents of the Norfolk countryside harvested the peat for fuel. They dug holes and eventually channels that would one day flood, thus creating an interconnecting system of waterways.

Today, you can explore its 125 miles of waterways by foot, bicycle or by boat. There are any number of migrating and native birds to see, as well as butterflies, dragonflies and even otters.

To rent a boat or hop on a nature cruise, consider going the twin villages of Wroxham and Hoveton. Located on either side of River Bure, these charming little villages offer a variety of activities for every level of nature enthusiast.

Some of the best places to go in East Anglia are the Wool Towns of Suffolk, including Bury St Edmunds, Clare, Long Melford, Sudbury and Lavenham.

In medieval times, the English wool trade was booming and a handful of towns grew extremely wealthy as a result. When the industry waned, the towns eventually fell into hard times but remnants of their prosperity still exist today, like the timber-framed houses and grand churches.

One of the largest wool towns is Bury St. Edmunds. Alongside its historical buildings are modern art galleries, restaurants and shops, perfect for a day spent browsing. You can also visit the ruins of the Abbey of St. Edmund, a Benedictine monastery from medieval times.

The town of Lavenham, once home to Lavenham Blue broadcloth, is another well-preserved medieval town. Exploring its narrow streets and old buildings is a must for any historically-minded visitor.

Looking to get away from the complications of urban life? The Suffolk Coast and Heaths, a 40-mile stretch of coastline, is one of the loveliest places to visit in the East of England.

It’s an officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that has largely been left undeveloped. Consequently, it is an ideal location for bird watching, beach combing, peaceful bike rides by the shore or long walks admiring the scenery.

The wildlife is abundant, so bring your camera! There are also many historic and scenic villages tucked throughout the area worth exploring.

One of the best places to visit in Suffolk is Southwold, a seaside village with a charming Victorian pier, esoteric little shops and beach amusements.

A little way away is the village of Thropeness. In the early 1900s, Thropeness was created to resemble something from out of a fairy tale, complete with a Peter Pan-like lake, mock Tudor homes and a House in the Clouds.

Exploring the seaside towns of Norfolk is an excellent way to spend your East of England getaway. For family fun, visiting Great Yarmouth is a necessity. It’s a resort town known for its long, sandy beach and the Golden Mile, home to many family-friendly attractions and activities both inside and outside.

Museum lovers will have their choice of the Time and Tide Museum , which details the local history from the ice age on and the Nelson Museum , centred around the life and career of Admiral Horatio Nelson.

In the early 19th century, Cromer was a seaside getaway for affluent families. Along with its sandy beaches, today’s visitors can find elaborate Victorian houses and hotels, many with painstakingly manicured gardens.

Its pier is home to one of the county’s most fabled lifeboat stations that boasts a crew long reputed to have unmatched bravery. Also, don’t forget to sample some of that legendary Cromer crab!

Travel back to the 17th century and visit Audley End House. Set in the countryside in the county of Essex, outside Saffron Walden, Audley End was built by King James I’s Lord Treasurer, the first Earl of Suffolk.

During its day, it was one of the finest and most opulent buildings in England. Later, in the 18th century, renown landscape architect Capability Brown added formal gardens featuring a parterre, manicured hedges and a wide variety of flowering plants.

Audley End eventually became a Victorian country house, and today’s visitors can learn about the home’s lively upstairs and downstairs life with exhibits regarding how its staff and residents worked and lived.

The formal gardens are lovely as are the organic kitchen garden and Elysian Garden. Make sure to trot on over to the Victorian stables and yard to take a look at the horses.

Audley End belongs to English Heritage and entry is free to members. Click here to join English Heritage. If you are visiting from overseas we recommend buying an English Heritage Overseas Pass.

Ely is one of the smallest cities in England. It sits in the heart of Fen country in Cambridgeshire, about 80 miles from London, making it a perfect location for a day trip .

Its centre is dominated by a magnificent Romanesque and Gothic cathedral , some of which was built by the Normans nearly 1,000 years ago. It took 300 years to complete and the result is a stunning masterpiece of architecture and intricate stonework.

Ely is small enough to explore on foot and besides seeing the cathedral, visitors can learn about the town’s history — Oliver Cromwell was a native son and his former house is open to the public.

A charming walk along the river, a visit to the Jubilee Gardens or exploring some of Ely’s many tearooms and antique shops makes for a lovely day. If you plan to venture out further, Ely would be a great base for exploring the entire Suffolk and North Norfolk coast.

If you’ve ever wished you could walk right into a Romantic-era painting of the English countryside, you simply must plan a trip to Constable Country.

Only two hours from London, it’s an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Suffolk named for the early 1800s painter, John Constable. His famous works feature quaint cottages, rolling green farmland and babbling streams, all in a most idyllic setting.

Walk around and you’ll recognise the scenery from many of his famous paintings including The Mill Stream , The Hay Wain and his Dedham Vale series.

In nearby Ipswich, make time to visit The Old Custom House , as well as the town’s pubs and charming restaurants. While you’re there, you can stop in the Christchurch Mansion, holder of the largest collection of Constable’s works outside of London.

Now you have lots of ideas for your visit to the East of England why not take a look at what the other 8 regions of England have to offer including the North East , North West , South East , South West , East Midlands , West Midlands , London and Yorkshire .

Need more help with the logistics of planning your England trip? My England Travel Guide is the best place to start.

Visiting Scotland , Northern Ireland or Wales ? Check out my top 19 places to visit in Scotland or my top 10 choices for Wales .

Driving the Norfolk and Suffolk Coast

We're exploring the best road trips the UK and Ireland have to offer , and one of our favourite areas to explore is along the Norfolk and Suffolk coastlines.

The Norfolk and Suffolk coastline offers long, wild beaches, picturesque villages, historic buildings, pleasant market towns, and traditional seaside resorts. There are also fantastic opportunities for wildlife spotting, as well as sampling the abundant fruits of farm and fishery that go into the cuisine of this part of East Anglia. Here's our guide to taking a road trip along England's easternmost stretch of coast. Once you plan where to visit, you can browse our Local Deals and hotels and breaks in the area.

Driving the Norfolk and Suffolk coast

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From Constable Country to The Wash - discovering East Anglia

Abandoned Windmill on norfolk broads at sunset. Getty

To the northeast of London, bulging into the North Sea, the ancient kingdom of the East Angles seems quickly a world apart.

Its flat, expansive landscape supports a historically agrarian economy, most famously sheep. The broad horizons yield what artists have long called a “painter's sky,” with extraordinary light and cloud formations.

Celtic, Roman, Saxon, and medieval sites, artifacts, and history abound. It is an easy adventure to explore this road remarkably less traveled.

• Walking through Thomas Hardy's Casterbridge also known as Dorchester

Day 1 - Ipswich to Aldeburgh and Southwold

From the airports or central London, begin on the M25 to catch the A12 at junction 28 toward Colchester. Those with an interest in Roman Britain will perhaps pause in Colchester, the oldest Roman legionary fortress in Britain, to see the Roman town walls, Balkerne Gate and other evidence and artifacts of Roman life remaining in the fabric of the market town.

Or carry on toward Ipswich and jump off the A12 at junction 31 for a plunge into what is known as Constable Country, most famous of English landscape painters. East Bergholt, Flatford Mill, and Dedham Vale are among the most famous scenes of Constable's paintings. Follow the art theme to Ipswich and Christchurch Mansion to see works of Constable, Thomas Gainsborough, and Paul Munnings.

Ipswich has plenty of accommodation, history, and pubs to explore for an overnight. Alternatively, you might continue north to spend the night in the seaside town of Aldeburgh, home of composer Benjamin Britten. Or follow the art trail to Sudbury for overnight and a visit to Gainsborough's House, both birthplace and gallery of Thomas Gainsborough.

The colourful row of seafront houses in the popular coastal town of Aldeburgh, Suffolk, UK on a sunny spring day.

Day 2 - To Norwich via Bury St. Edmunds

From whichever overnight stay you choose, make today for Bury St. Edmunds. On the A134 from Sudbury, you might allow time for stopping in Long Melford, famous for its antique shops. Bury St. Edmunds' deserving claim to fame is St. Edmundsbury Cathedral.

Though there has been a church here since the 11th century, the present Gothic Revival cathedral, begun in 1503, was rebuilt several times and only pronounced complete in 2005. Do take time to stroll a bit in the lovely Abbey Gardens just next door to the cathedral. Across the street, Dickens used to stay in the Angel Hotel.

Take the gentle way north to Norwich this afternoon on the A143 to Diss and the A140 about 20 miles north to Norfolk's cathedral city and county town. visitnorwich.co.uk

Day 3 - Norwich

Through the middle ages to the 18th century, Norwich was England's second-largest city. Made prosperous by England's rich wool trade, the modest modern city of 150,000 contains a treasure of medieval churches, elegant Norwich Cathedral, cobbled streets, Norwich Castle, half-timbered shops and the largest outdoor market in the country.

It merits a day well spent indeed.

Norwich Roman Catholic Cathedral in England

Day 4 - The North Norfolk Coast to Great Yarmouth

Today's excursion is a road trip in the Norfolk Broads. Take a leisurely start north on the A140 to Cromer. The small harbor town and the seaside resort are comparatively little changed from its holiday making heyday in the mid-20th century.

Do take the time to stroll Cromer Pier, where gigging for Cromer crabs remains a popular activity. Nearby, the National Trust's Felbrigg Hall is a lovely country house visit. Take the A149 across the top of the network of rivers and shallow lakes known as The Broads to Great Yarmouth. The stop to make along the way is Potter Heigham on the River Thurne, one of the staging and supply areas for boating holidays on the 300-mile network of navigable waterways.

Great Yarmouth has been a popular seaside resort since Victorian days. Charles Dickens stayed here and set part of Great Expectations on its broad beach. All the classic seafront diversions are here to refresh body and spirit, and there is a working harbor as well. The A47 makes a quick return the 20 miles to Norwich, though if there's time, do stop at the Stracey Arms Windpump for another piece of Broads' history.

This is in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk England. It is basically the countryside of England

Day 5 - To Cambridge via Sandringham and Ely

Take the A1067 west this morning, joining the A148 at Fakenham. Pick a morning visit to either Houghton Hall, the country house of the great Robert Walpole, first Prime Minister, or Her Majesty's private estate at Sandringham. Both are great experiences that reveal much about their famous owners. Sandringham will occupy more of your day. At King's Lynn, pick up the A10 south across the fens to Ely.

Once known as Eel Island, Ely stands out as an oasis of firm high ground amid miles of surrounding fens. The town spreads out around the majestic Ely Cathedral, acclaimed for its magnificent architecture and detailed craftsmanship.

A Benedictine abbey with its roots in the 7th century was rebuilt under Norman rule into the beautiful Romanesque and Decorated Gothic cathedral in the 12th century. Ely's other great visit is the nearby Oliver Cromwell House, the family home of the Puritan leader, for which he pined throughout the 15 years of his military and national leadership.

Carry on south some 15 miles to the ancient university town of Cambridge. There is no shortage of lodging options in Cambridge, but do plan your stay with an eye toward the rhythms of the academic year. In the popular university town, there is likewise a generous bounty of pubs and interesting eating places. visitcambridge.org

Cambridge University (King's College Chapel) Top View

Day 6 - Cambridge and Environs

Much more apparent than at Oxford, Cambridge University is Cambridge. The town spreads out through and around the colleges, libraries, laboratories and playing fields of the ancient university. Stop by the Tourist Centre in the Guildhall on Peas Hill to pick up street maps and inspiration.

You might catch an official guided 90-minute walking tour of the most famous highlights, or strike out on your own. Generally regarded must-see visits include King's College Chapel and the Fitzwilliam Museum, but there are enough museums, galleries, colleges, and stories to occupy several days with effort. You might even try punting on the River Cam.

On the outskirts of town, the Cambridge American Cemetery contains the graves of 3,812 airmen who flew out of East Anglia during World War II and honors another 5,127 who never returned from their missions.

Day 7 - Conveniently Onward

If you are driving back toward London, the M11 can have you on the M25 in an hour. Just a few miles south of Cambridge, you might visit the Duxford Imperial War Museum at a former World War II airfield—one of the world's great military air museums. If you have a few more days, head north to Peterborough and the East Midlands of Hidden England.

* Originally published in Jan 2018.

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Road trips with avis: east anglia, east anglia - eastern promise, discover an under-visited part of england with an avis car.

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Top Tours in East Anglia, England

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15. Private Norwich Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation

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19. Norwich City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest

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Places To Road Trip To (Midlands and East Anglia)

Before you go.

places to road trip to, If you’re driving your own car, it’s worth a trip to the garage to make sure it’s in good working order before you go. Make sure you have all of your vehicle paperwork and a spare tyre in the back. Just in case, it’s also a good idea to include a first-aid kit and some non-perishable refreshments. Take out breakdown insurance and make a note of the emergency phone number.

Norfolk Coast

A drive across Norfolk will give you a taste of England’s eastern shore. Head east into The Broads after soaking up the provincial bustle of Norwich (the 11th century cathedral is a must-see). It’s certainly worth spending a few additional days on a boat, with gorgeous rivers and a diverse range of animals.

Take the coastal roads north from there to Cromer, a historic seaside village with the UK’s only surviving end-of-the-pier variety performance. Windswept beaches like Brancaster Beach, located further along the coast, are ideal for a peaceful afternoon by the water.

North Norfolk has more sandy beaches than any other region in the UK, with more than 40 miles and six Blue Flag beaches. Blakeney Point is home to England’s largest seal population, which enjoys the golden beaches.

Norwich, the mediaeval city, is a hidden treasure and a must-see if you’re in Norfolk. Norwich, the UK’s finest preserved mediaeval city, boasts a beautiful Norman cathedral with England’s second highest spire, a vibrant and well-respected pub and restaurant scene, and the Norwich Lanes, a maze of pedestrian lanes filled with independent shops and boutiques.

Sandringham Estate

The royal estate of Sandringham is located south of The Wash. You may also tour the house, grounds, and transport museum before visiting the St Mary Magdalene church, where the Queen attends services when she is at Sandringham. Farmers markets and craft festivals are common occurrences in this area.

Blakeney is reached by following the shoreline north from the Broads. This charming seaside hamlet is located in a region of great natural beauty, including a nature reserve with expansive vistas, salt marshes, sand dunes, and horizons that reach far out to sea. Take a journey out to Blakeney Point to observe the Common and Grey seals that nest here in the winter, or practise your crabbing abilities in the harbour.

Peak District

This trip to the Peak District, one of the country’s most cherished national parks, is next on our agenda of places to road trip to. Begin at Glossop, east of Manchester, and go across the Pennines via the renowned Snake Pass, one of the UK’s major mountain passes, reaching a height of 510 metres above sea level.

From there, continue south to the reservoirs surrounding the renowned Derwent Dam, which provide excellent hiking possibilities. A short diversion to the west will lead you to the Blue John Cavern, an underground network of caverns with guided tours – perfect if you want to avoid hill trekking on your route south.

If you wish to go deeper into the cave, the Heights of Abraham near Matlock provides excursions that allow you to follow in the footsteps of the Great Masson Cavern’s miners. Alternatively, go to the sky in the Derwent Valley’s famed cable car.

The Dark Peak is characterised by exposed moorland and gritstone ‘edges’ to the north, while the White Peak is mainly up of undulating limestone dales to the south. The Peak District’s varied and towering vistas provide for some pretty fantastic driving, making it one of England’s greatest places to road trip to.

Chatsworth house

This massive stately mansion is three miles northeast of Bakewell, known as the “Palace of the Peak,” has been the family residence of sixteen generations of earls and dukes of Devonshire. Inside, valuable artworks and antique furnishings adorn the opulent flats and mural-painted chambers.

Peak district caves and caverns

Caves and caverns abound in the Peak District, some of which are totally natural and others which were formed as a result of previous mining activities.

Peak Cavern near Castleton is the Peak District’s largest cave system, and it’s virtually totally natural. The cave dubbed the “Devil’s Arse,” was home to rope-making cave dwellers until the early twentieth century, when 40 families resided in two rows of cottages at the cave mouth, along with stables, a bar, and a few tiny businesses! Castleton is also home to Speedwell Cavern, Blue John Cavern, and Treak Cliff Cavern.

The Heights of Abraham is one of England’s oldest tourist attractions, having opened in 1780. Two 350 million year old caves, Rutland Caverns and Great Masson are located beside the cable car journey and parks with many attractions, where you may experience lead mining in the 17th century.

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THE 10 BEST East Anglia Tours & Excursions

East anglia tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
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• Private Tours
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• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. A Stranger in Norwich City Exploration Game

2. Jack the Ripper London Private Taxi Tour

3. Norfolk Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK

4. Private Guided Historic Colchester and Lavenham Tour

5. Scroby Sands Seal Watching

6. Guided Half Day Behind the Scenes Newmarket Tour

7. Medieval Lavenham: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

8. Cruise Wells Next The Sea on Historic RNLI and Dunkirk Veteran Lifeboat

9. Lowestoft Harbour Tour

10. SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth General Admission

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The Ultimate 2-Week Eastern Europe Itinerary: 6 Great Routes

Last Updated on January 3, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect Eastern Europe itinerary when you only have a finite number of days or weeks to play around with can be a head-spinning and frustrating undertaking. It’s only until you sit down and pull out a map (or, more realistically, open up Google Maps) that you realise how vast this region of the continent is and how much there really is to see.

Do you want to head to the Central European favourites like Budapest or Prague ? Do you venture up north and explore the charms of the Baltic states? Or do you head southeast and devote your time to one country like Romania or Bulgaria?

So if you’re in the process of planning a trip to Eastern Europe and are a bit stuck on what the optimal route is for you, then look no further.

Table of Contents

Which countries are in Eastern Europe?

For those who haven’t travelled extensively around the region, it may not seem like the term “Eastern Europe” is even that loaded, however, you will soon learn that it is not so much a term that defines a region and can be far more political and cultural than meets the eyes.

Many people will jump to thinking that the term “Eastern Europe” refers to the Warsaw Pact countries or the countries that were under Communist rule from WWII up until the early 1990s. This typically includes the countries in former Yugoslavia and anything east of Germany or Austria (excluding Greece and Turkey).

Where things can get complicated is that many residents of certain countries don’t like to be referred to as Eastern European. For instance, the countries of Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia and Slovenia often would prefer to be referred to as Central Europe – and geographically, that is where they are.

And the countries of Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia and Bulgaria are best referred to as the Balkans. And Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania? They’re the Baltics.

So which countries are actually in Eastern Europe? It’s still complicated, however, you’re generally safe to assume that countries like Romania, Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus and Russia are all in Eastern Europe.

I would also go so far as to consider the countries of Georgia, Armenia and even Azerbaijan all the way in the South Caucasus as a part of Eastern Europe. I say this because, although geographically they may rest in what is technically Asia, culturally they are far more European.

So, as you can see, Eastern Europe is generally quite a vague term that encompasses a number of vastly different regions and nations. However, it is also one of our absolute favourite regions to travel in the entire world and visiting anywhere in this vast corner of Europe is sure to spark your wanderlust.

How to get around Eastern Europe

Depending on which area of Eastern Europe you intend to travel to, the best way to get around will vary. However, what’s good is that, especially if you only plan to visit major cities, it’s very easy to get around most areas relying only on the train or bus. Just what form of public transit will depend on where you are.

If you plan to do the classic “Eastern Europe” itinerary (ie Central Europe) and hit top cities like Budapest, Prague, or Krakow, then you can easily get around while relying on the train.

Train connections in Central Europe are frequent, reliable and relatively affordable — especially if booked in advance through platforms like Omio. You can click here to view schedules.

It can be popular to plan to use night trains to save on accommodation or time in transit, but keep in mind that these can book out quite early in high seasons and they can be quite expensive, depending on where you’d like to go.

If you want to save some money, you will find that the bus is a cheaper option and offers just as many routes. Companies like FlixBus offer numerous routes between cities at affordable price and buses are generally fairly comfortable and reliable. There are also overnight bus routes, but this is quite a tiring and uncomfortable way to travel.

If you happen to be travelling in the Balkans or Baltics, you are going to have to forget about any visions you had about taking the train. Rail routes are few and far between and where they may exist, they will be painfully slow, exceptionally outdated, and rather uncomfortable.

The vast majority of the Balkans and Baltics aren’t actually on a rail network, anyhow, so your best bet is going to be taking the bus if you’re relying on public transit.

In the Baltics, there is a wonderful bus company called Lux Express that is arguably going to be the nicest bus that you will ever encounter. They are comfortable, have wifi and entertainment systems and serve most major routes throughout the Baltics and even into Poland and Russia. You can book bus tickets for the Baltics here.

In the Balkans, FlixBus operates in some countries, but there are far more bus companies available and finding out the schedules can be tricky depending on where you are. Your best bet is to check out the bus timetables at the station when you arrive so you have an idea because information on the internet may be incomplete or incorrect.

If you don’t want to rely on public transit, then you can always rent a car when travelling in Eastern Europe. This will allow you to have more flexibility with your itinerary and not be at the mercy of erratic timetables and long bus or train journeys.

However, please make sure to double-check that the rental company will allow you to cross borders and that the car is provided with the adequate insurance in order to do this.

The rental company should handle this and it isn’t the consumer’s responsibility, but do make sure that you are properly equipped before starting your Eastern Europe travel itinerary.

If you want to rent a car while travelling in Eastern Europe, we recommend using RentalCars.com to find the best deals on a car hire.

Finally, it’s worth making sure you have travel insurance for your Eastern Europe trip. If you’re travelling on a budget and are only after travel medical insurance it’s worth checking out  SafetyWing’s nomad insurance.

How long to spend in Eastern Europe

So how many days or weeks should you dedicate to your itinerary through Eastern Europe? With the region encompassing so many countries and sub-regions, it can feel like there is never enough time to see everything and deciding the ideal trip length can seem incredibly overwhelming.

The first thing that you need to understand is that it is impossible to see everything in a limited period of time and if you try to cram in too much, you are going to spend the vast majority of your time in transit between cities and destinations rather than actually enjoying and exploring the destination itself.

We always encourage slow travel and that doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to take numerous weeks off in order to travel to Eastern Europe, it just means that you should absolutely spend a bit longer in each destination that you visit. So, if you only have time for a one-week itinerary, then we would suggest limiting your trip to just two cities.

If you want to see a good portion of the region you’ve decided to visit while still not taking a tonne of time off work or away from home, then we think that planning for two weeks is the ideal amount of time. Within a fortnight, you can get a good taste of whichever region you plan to visit and really experience some diverse and dynamic destinations.

Obviously, if you have longer and are looking to spend 3 weeks in Eastern Europe, then you can very much find a multitude of ways that you could fill your time.

3 weeks really is optimal to begin to dig deeper and get a bit off the beaten path and to see some cities and towns away from the major capitals. This will give you a broader idea of the general culture of whichever country or region you are visiting and help you gain a better understanding of the area.

There are always options if you have longer than 2 or 3 weeks in Eastern Europe as there are a myriad of regions and countries that you could visit.

You also could take the opportunity to base yourself for a longer period of time in a particular city and explore more of the surrounding area via day trips and even venture off the beaten tourist path in the city itself.

The possibilities are endless in Eastern Europe no matter how long you’re able to spend, just make sure that you can do each destination justice by spending enough time there.

For the purposes of this article, all of these itineraries are meant to be for about 2 weeks. If you’re looking for a one-week or 10-day Eastern Europe itinerary, then just take away one or two destinations mentioned as they interest you. Again, it’s best to keep in mind that it is impossible to pack everything in just a short time period.

Second, as mentioned earlier, there are lots of different regions that encompass greater Eastern Europe and we’ve put together itineraries for each of these.

If you want more information once you’ve decided where it is that you want to in Eastern Europe, we have dedicated itineraries for Central Europe , the Balkans , the Baltics , and even the Caucasus if you are feeling intrepid.

Central Europe Routes

Central Europe is what most people are looking for when they think to plan an itinerary for Eastern Europe. Filled with some of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe and packed with interesting culture and fascinating history, this region is sure to delight all those who venture there.

Classic Central Europe Route

This two-week itinerary will take you past some of the most popular and beautiful places to visit in what many believe to be “Eastern Europe”. This route starts in Budapest and ends in Prague, but you can easily reverse it if it makes the most sense to you.

Budapest – The capital of Hungary is an excellent place to start any trip to Eastern Europe. It is something of the gateway to Eastern Europe and a great jumping-off point to visiting Central Europe, the Balkans, or Romania.

Budapest is one of the most beautiful and dynamic cities in all of Europe and you’re sure to fall in love with it instantly with it’s incredibly picturesque skyline set along the mighty Danube River. Plan to spend about 4-5 days in Budapest to really do the city justice before moving onto your next destination.

Vienna – Though not technically Eastern Europe, Vienna is an essential addition to an itinerary of this sort. Austria’s grand capital is a lovely place to explore for about 3-4 days and it is highly recommended that you take a day trip to the nearby capital of Slovakia, Bratislava .

Brno/Olomouc – Spend 2 days exploring one of Czechia’s other cities and while Olomouc is a personal favourite of ours, Brno is a more direct stop and also offers another great perspective of the Czech Republic beyond the capital city.

Prague – No itinerary of this sort would be complete without including the Czech Republic’s inimitable capital of Prague . The city is very popular, however, there are lots of places to visit within it that are off the beaten path. Plan to spend about 3-4 days in the city itself and then give yourself more time to go on a day trip or two.

Have More Time? If you have a bit more time to dedicate to this itinerary, please consider exploring more the Czech Republic . There is so much to see in this incredible country beyond Prague – and very few international visitors tend to dig deeper and explore the country.

If you want to get out in nature and see some of the countryside, then head to the Jeseniky Mountains or Bohemian Switzerland National Park, or if you want to experience some more Czech cities, it can be worth it to head to Brno or even industrial Ostrava . For smaller towns and cities, head to Karlovy Vary , Cesky Krumlov or Pilsen.

Alternative Central European Route

If you’re still after a Central European route but want to visit more countries, consider spending a bit of time in Poland rather than Czechia.

Budapest – Again, start your itinerary in Budapest and plan to spend 4 days exploring this incredibly beautiful city. There is so much to see and do in Budapest that you’re sure not to be bored.

Vienna – From Budapest, head onto Vienna for 3 days and make sure to do a day trip to Bratislava in order to see another amazing Central European city.

Prague – Plan to spend at least 3 nights and two full days exploring Prague, taking in the city’s top sites and learning about its vast and complex history. Also, Prague has some of the best beer in the world at some incredibly affordable prices!

Wroclaw – From Prague, head over to spend a day in the charming city of Wroclaw , Poland. This lesser-visited city is dotted with interesting sites to see and full of endearing quirks — including a myriad of little dwarf statues that can be spotted throughout the city!

Krakow – End your itinerary in Poland’s second-largest city of Krakow . This city is filled with history, both heartbreaking and fascinating, and it is worth taking the time to explore that along with it’s beautiful Old Town.

It is also possible to take a day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine or to Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp Museum. You could even take a day trip to the Tatra Mountains, if that suits your fancy.

Have More Time? If you have more time to devote to this itinerary, consider exploring more of Poland, including heading to the capital of Warsaw or to some smaller cities like Poznan or Gdansk , where you may find fewer crowds than in cities like Krakow and, in the latter city, even enjoy a beautiful Baltic beach. You could also combine this itinerary easily with a route through the Baltic countries if you have around 4-5 weeks to play around with.

Baltics Routes

The Baltics are one of Europe’s most underrated regions but also happen to contain some of the most charming spots in all of Eastern Europe. Filled with fairy-tale-like cities, incredible cuisine and fascinating history, this is how you should spend two weeks in the Baltics.

Classic Baltic Route

If you’re interested in dipping your toe into the Baltic countries and just want to get a feel, then this two-week route through the capitals is a great option for you.

Warsaw – Poland’s capital is one of the easiest places to begin this route. Plan to spend about 2 days exploring this historic city while taking in its refurbished Old Town and visiting some of the great museums.

Vilnius – The capital of Lithuania has been subjected to some great marketing campaigns, however, it still doesn’t get nearly the amount of visitors that it deserves.

Home to one of Europe’s largest old towns, a great cafe culture, and its own “independent republic,” plan to spend about 3 days in Vilnius to get the most out of the city and maybe take a day trip.

Riga – Next, head up to Latvia’s cosmopolitan capital of Riga. There is so much that Riga has to offer, but it is a real joy for architecture geeks — boasting one of the best collections of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe. Riga also has a lovely Old Town, great restaurants, and an incredible Central Market. Plan to spend 2-3 days in Riga to get the most out of the city.

Tallinn – The Estonian capital may well be the most beautiful city in the entirety of Europe (move over Paris or Seville!) however, very few visitors give it the time it deserves.

The medieval old town packs a significant amount of charm, but there is so much more to see in Tallinn that it’s worth spending at least 3 or 4 days to really do Estonia’s capital justice.

Alternative Baltics Route

If you are looking for an itinerary through the Baltics that allows you to really dig deep into the region, then this route commencing in Vilnius and ending in Tallinn is a great option for you.

Vilnius – Start your trip in Lithuania’s capital and plan to spend 2-3 days here exploring the top sites, going for a day trip, and enjoying the laid-back nature before moving on.

Kaunas – Lithuania’s second-largest city can be seen in about one full day, but it is still very much worth exploring. Kaunas boasts a lovely old town, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, fantastic street art, fascinating museums, and an imposing medieval castle making it a can’t-miss stop in Lithuania.

Riga – Now it’s time to visit Latvia’s beautiful capital city. Take the time to enjoy its cosmopolitan energy, enjoy the cuisine, and maybe take a day trip to the seaside town of Jurmala located just outside of the city.

Tartu – Estonia’s second-largest city is far too often ignored by visitors to the Baltic, but it really shouldn’t. There are lots of things to do in Tartu that can easily occupy one or two full days including exploring the old town, visiting museums, enjoying its art scene, and indulging in some of the city’s fantastic restaurants.

Tallinn – End your itinerary in Tallinn, trying to spend at least three days enjoying this incredible city. Tallinn is so cool and dynamic and has so many layers that you are sure to be charmed and itching to explore more.

Have More Time? If you have more time to dedicate to the Baltics, there are so many more places that you could visit. Consider heading to the coast of Lithuania and exploring the city of Klaipeda and the beautiful Curonian Spit . Or, head to the seaside town of Liepaja, Latvia and take in its laid-back charms.

Alternatively, you could head to the Estonian seaside in cities like Parnu or Haapsalu or, even more offbeat, head to some of its countless islands – like peaceful Saaremaa . And though it’s definitely not Eastern Europe, many people like to continue onto Finland and the Nordics from Tallinn.

Southeastern Europe Route

If you would rather head southeast when planning your Eastern Europe travel itinerary, then these are the routes for you. Heading into the Balkans is a great choice if you want to experience a number of different cultures and learn about a different history than you would in other areas of Eastern Europe.

Central Balkans Route

This itinerary begins in Budapest and takes you through some south-central European capitals.

Budapest – There are few cities better to commence an Eastern European route in than Budapest. For this 2-week itinerary, plan to spend 4-5 days in the Hungarian capital.

Belgrade – Belgrade is a gritty, lively, energetic and dynamic city that is just so cool it is sure to take you by surprise. Known for its incredible nightlife, Belgrade is also packed with history, culture and interesting things to do that you could easily occupy yourself for the recommended 3 days in Serbia’s capital .

Zagreb – Croatia’s oft-overlooked capital is normally put on the back burner for those more eager to head to the country’s coast, however, it is worth spending a day or two exploring . There are also numerous great day trip opportunities — please try to get to Plitvice Lakes, it’s breathtakingly beautiful — from Zagreb, as well.

Ljubljana – End this itinerary for Eastern Europe in Slovenia’s capital of Ljubljana. This beautiful city is so incredibly charming that it is a strong contender for the most beautiful city in Eastern Europe (Tallinn has some competition).

Plan to spend 2 or 3 days in Ljubljana , giving yourself longer if you’re interested in going for a day trip to Lake Bled , Lake Bohinj , lovely Maribor or even the seaside village of Piran.

Classic Balkans Route

If you’re after a more classic Balkans route for your trip to Eastern Europe but only have two weeks to do it in, then plan to begin your trip in Belgrade. The central Balkans are fairly off the beaten path compared to the rest of the places on this list, however, they pack so much that it’s worth exploring.

Belgrade – Begin your trip in Belgrade, Serbia taking in all of the eclectic sites the city has to offer, experiencing its inimitable energy and learning about its vast and complex history – there are tons of walking tours here where you can learn all about this city. 3-4 days in Belgrade should be sufficient, but one can always spend more.

Sarajevo – Next, head to Bosnia & Herzegovina’s incredible capital of Sarajevo. One of the most fascinating cities to visit in this part of the world, Sarajevo has an absolutely heartbreak history that is very much worth learning about in a number of the city’s excellent museums.

Take the time to learn about its not-so-modern history, as well, enjoy the historic city centre, and take its east-meets-west vibes at this cultural crossroads. You need about 2-3 days in Sarajevo to really do the city justice.

Mostar – From Sarajevo, head south to the beautiful city of Mostar. Far too often visited only as a day trip, Mostar is best experienced over two days to really learn about this city and its complex history.

Kotor – To round out this two-week itinerary, head to the Montenegrin port city of Kotor. This city is quite popular amongst tourists — especially as a cruise ship port — but it’s definitely worth spending 2-3 full days here to get to know the city and take some day trips to the surrounding area.

Have More Time? If you have more time to spend in the Balkans, your opportunities really are endless — one could easily spend months on end in this region alone and still feel as if they’ve only scratched the surface.

From Kotor, one could easily head into Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia and onto Greece, if you want to stay further south. Or, you could head west of Kotor to Dubrovnik and explore more of Croatia.

Alternatively, you could continue on east into Bulgaria, which deserves at least a week or two to explore on its own. Planning a Bulgaria itinerary on top of this Eastern European route is a fantastic idea.

If you end up in Bulgaria and have a lot of time to play around with, then it would also make sense to head into Romania.

Again, Romania is a massive country and visitor could easily dedicate two full weeks solely to this country – take time to see sites like Bran Castle, explore the vibrant capital of Bucharest and wander through the towns and cities in Transylvania.

Booking Accommodation in Eastern Europe

Once you’ve figured out your itinerary and where you want to go in Eastern Europe, the next step is booking accommodation. Luckily, there are so many options out there to book the best places to stay that cater to all tastes and budgets.

If you’re planning on backpacking in Eastern Europe, are on a tight budget, or are just looking for some great social opportunities, then hostels are going to be your best bet. We like to search for and book hostels online through Hostelworld , which is excellent to find the best hostels and keep all of your bookings in place.

If you’re looking for a broad array of accommodation options at great prices, then you can’t go wrong with Booking.com . This is our platform of choice when we are booking traditional hotels and B&Bs and even, sometimes, whole apartments!

And finally, if you’re looking for a private apartment rental or would like to save some money while staying in a private room in a local’s home, we recommend booking your stay through Airbnb. There are countless properties available on the platform all over Eastern Europe that will ensure you have a unique and authentic place to rest your head.

There are countless options when planning the ultimate Eastern Europe itinerary and it can seem overwhelming when confronted with all of them to figure out where to go. However, this region has so much to offer that no matter where in it you end up visit, you’re sure to have an incredible time!

Are you visiting Eastern Europe? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Bucharest Itinerary

One Day in Brasov Itinerary: A Day Trip from Bucharest

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, woderful detailing of East Europe tours. Can you please help me to figure out my trip with inclusion of Budapest, Vienna, Prague, Croatia.we wish to travel by rental car. We are planning to visit these places in November 2023 , a trip for 10 days. please suggest. Dr, Neera Mittal

I sincerely hope that in 2022, I shall be able to visit eastern Europe which I have been planning for last three years! Your writings are very informative and absorbing. Please continue your excellent efforts of writing such pieces. Thanks a lot. PS: Add some information also about expenses of different categories, if possible.

Thanks for your comment and I hope that you’re able to go on your trip this year!

Amazing info, thanks. I will put together a trip for a month. I plan to surprise my daughter in Prague where she goes to Uni. Appreciate all your hard work and easy reading style. Stay healthy and happy! <3

Thanks so much for your comment and kind words, Lynn! Hope that you and your daughter have a great trip 🙂

Hello, this was a great explanation of what eastern europe really is, and some excellent itineraries for central europe, baltics, and balkans. But after you defined eastern europe to include Romania, Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus and Russia, you left out an itinerary for that very thing. Do you have such a guide? Thank you.

Hi Kyle, unfortunately, we don’t have a lot of information about those countries (yet!). All of those places are definitely on our list though so hoping to change that in the future

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Texas Kids Adventures

Texas Road Trip Through Europe Towns A= Paris, TX; B= Athens, TX; C= Moscow, TX; D= Berlin, TX; E= Vienna, TX; F= London, TX; G= Florence, TX; H= Holland, TX; I= Dublin, TX, J= Italy, TX

Texas has some uniquely-named towns, such as Cut-and-Shoot, Loco, Trout, Oatmeal, Ding Dong, Bacon, Noodle, Tarzan, Salty, Telephone, Energy, Coffee City, Quicksand, Gun Barrell City, and has its own Utopia as well as Uncertain.  

As settlers emigrated to Texas, they brought some European names to pay homage to their mother countries, including Paris, Athens, Moscow, Berlin, Vienna, London, Florence, Holland, Dublin and Italy.   Fortunately for Texans, this makes a fun road trip to explore Texas towns with European names.  Even better, you won’t need a passport.  If you haven’t heard of these town before, it’s probably because most are very small and lost population and industries as larger cities grew. 

The Eiffel Tower of Texas.  Photo credit.

Let’s begin our tour in Paris, Texas , complete with its own 65 foot Eiffel Tower with a red cowboy hat perched on top.  It’s the second largest Eiffel Tower in the world, and is around one-tenth the height of the original at 1,063 feet.  Stop by the Paris Bakery for French pastries as you explore downtown Paris and the Lamar County courthouse.  The Lamar County Historical Museum  has artifacts from the local area, including a blacksmith shop, pioneer kitchen and pioneer cabin.  Kids can stretch their legs at the Paris Downtown Community Park splash park and outdoor musical instruments.  Check out the Paris events including Tour de Paris Bicycle Rally and the Paris Balloon & Music Festival .  

Zipliner above the trees at New York, Texas Zipline Adventures.

Enjoy the rolling hills and piney woods on your road trip journey to Athens, Texas.  It was named by the stepdaughter of a founding father who had a vision that Athens would become the cultural center in Henderson county like the one in Greece.   Athens holds the title of the official “Original Home of the Hamburger”, created in the late 1880s at a downtown Athens café and introduced at the 1904 World’s State Fair in St Louis.  Athens is also known as the Black-eyed Pea Capital of the World. 

The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center is a production hatchery for stocking fish into Texas waterways and an educational center to learn about native species and ecosystems.  Visit over 300,000 gallons of indoor and outdoor aquariums to see many native fish, waterfowl, amphibians and alligators.  Learn about ecosystems and fishing at the museum and wetlands trail. 

The East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society is 100 acres of trees, flowers and wildlife.  The two mile rugged nature trail along spring-fed streams reveal untouched animal habitats and ecosystems.  The handicap-accessible trail is 1/3 of a mile.  Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring binoculars.  

Just 15 minutes away, New York, Texas Zipline Adventures offers zipline tours for ages 5 and up.  Zip through the treetops at over 100 feet above the ground.  

Lake Livingston State Park kayaking   Photo credit

Moscow, Texas There’s not much in this small town of less than 200 residents.  Stop by Johnson’s Rock Shop to find gemstones, minerals, petrified wood, and jewelry.  Polk County Memorial Museum is a small museum with history of Polk County with old maps.  Lake Livingston State Park located just 15 minutes away, on Hwy 59 on the way to Berlin.

Berlin, Texas A German settlement from the late 1840s with a cotton gin and gristmill, this town only 3 miles from Brenham and is included in their population numbers.  Berlin was founded in 1860 by German settlers.  There is also a Texas town called New Berlin in Guadalupe county.

Vienna, Texas With a population under 50, this is a tiny town once had a gin and sawmill as immigrants settled along the Navidad River.  When the Navidad flooded in 1940, structures were washed away.

Florence, Texas main street.  Photo credit.

London, Texas London is also known as London Town in the 1880s, and is home to the historic London Dance Hall with live music and dances.    Enjoy the beauty of rolling hills, oak trees and wildflowers as you enjoy the best of the Texas Hill Country in Boerne, Comfort, Fredericksburg and Kerrville area.   Nearby attractions include the Ft. McKavett State Historical Site and South Llano River State Park. 

Florence, Texas This small town established in the early 1850s had a railroad with wheat, cotton and cattle industries which led to a corn mill, blacksmith leather goods production, and eventually a hotel, saloon, flour mill.  Area attractions include lakes and rivers for water recreation and fishing.

Hill country, Fredericksburg, Texas.  Photo credit.

Holland, Texas

Holland is home to the one and only Corn Fest , an annual festival of music, 5K run, parade, and themed contests such as corn eating, corn shucking, corn bobbing, corn seed spitting, corn cob relay, corn hole and the world championship corn cob throw.  While it was cancelled in 2020, this sounds like a shucking good time you won’t want to miss for 2021.   You could leave there as a world champion!  

Dublin, Texas The Official Irish Capital of Texas, Dublin bottled Dr. Pepper for over 100 years.   This small town has plenty to explore including museums, shopping, market days, and homemade cheese and wines.  The Dublin St. Patrick’s Day Celebration includes pageants, parades, craft and food vendors, dog contests and shopping.   Dublin has a monthly Farmers Markets for fresh produce.

Italy Known as the “Biggest Little Town in Texas,” this town was named by the postmaster who thought the climate was similar to Italy.   This settlement from the 1860s had a railroad, five cotton gins, and a cottonseed oil mill.  This old cotton town now has some vintage and antique shopping and dining.

Downtown Italy, Texas

On your Texas Road Trip Through Europe Towns, you can brag to your friends about seeing towns that they probably never knew were in Texas.  You can imagine the hustle and bustle of these towns during the cotton and farming boom, and see the grand buildings that remain.  You will see backroads, woodlands, lakes and rivers, rolling hills, and beautiful scenery along the way.    When given the choice between the interstate and the backroads, always choose the backroads.  

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