Bank Holiday May Activities in Norfolk

Bank Holiday May Activities in Norfolk

If you’re thinking of spending May bank holiday in Norfolk, there are many things that you and the whole family can do. From relaxing by the sea to exploring woodlands, here is our guide to some of the best bank holiday May activities and things to do in Norfolk.

If the weather isn’t what you had hoped during the bank holiday weekend, there are still plenty of indoor attractions and places to visit. Read our guide to Rainy Day Activities in Norfolk for some ideas.

For half term activities, browse our half term things to do in Norfolk guide for ideas. Or just keep reading to see May bank holiday activities.

More Things To Do in Norfolk

Sea Palling

If you’re looking for a seaside break away from the tourist crowds of Cromer, Sea Palling is a great alternative. This quiet village on the north Norfolk coast has a lovely choice of cafes, shops and amusement arcades. It’s also home to the largest 16th century tithe barns in England, with an exhibition of Elizabethan agriculture. Sea Palling has a Blue Flag beach, ideal for kids with its safe waters and soft sands. It’s also only five miles away from the Norfolk Wildlife Trust reserve at Hickling, where there are waterside walks, boat tours and tons of wildlife spotting.

Blakeney National Nature Reserve

Located near the villages of Blakeney, Morston and Cley-next-the-Sea, Blakeney Point is a nature reserve which is home to the country’s largest grey seal colony. You see the seals up close on a boat trip departing from Morston Quay. The Norfolk Coast Path runs right along the nature reserve, and there are miles of footpaths around the area.

Wells-next-the-Sea

Wells-next-the-Sea is a small town and port on the north Norfolk coast. Its wide beach is perfect for families, and features rows of colourful beach huts and a cafe. The Wells Quay and Harbour is the hub of the town, where you’ll find all the shops and amusements. Try crabbing off the harbour, or enjoy fish and chips with a view of the boats. A fun thing to do is the Wells & Walsingham Light Railway, the longest 10 ¼” narrow gauge steam railway in the world. It leaves from the town and takes you on a scenic four mile journey to the village of Walsingham.

Pensthorpe Natural Park

A trip to this 700 acre nature reserve and woodland conservation park is a fun bank holiday activity. Great for families, bird watchers, wildlife enthusiasts and garden lovers, the Pensthorpe Natural Park has woodland walks and lakes, four beautiful gardens, an outdoor adventure playground and an indoor playing area. Check out the Wetland Discovery Area, home to flamingos and cranes. Spot rare bird species at the Wader Aviary and listen to daily talks by the wardens.

The Sainsbury Centre

This art gallery and museum in Norwich is located on the campus of the University of East Anglia. There are a range of exciting exhibitions from artists around the world, featuring pieces that span over 5,000 years. Check out the Living Area, where you’ll find the Robert and Lisa Sainsbury Collection and works by Henry Moore, Pablo Picasso and Paul Gauguin. Studio Ceramics is a collection of modern pots curated by Lisa Sainsbury herself. Outside, the Sculpture Park is set over 350 acres of parkland and gardens.