Staycations in Norfolk

Thinking of heading to Norfolk for a staycation? Great choice. Norfolk has so much to offer, including beautiful beaches, wonderful waterways and wildlife, charming countryside and market towns, unspoilt nature reserves, exciting attractions and plenty of outdoor activities.

But it’s not just rural scenery that Norfolk has. Even if you’re looking for a city break, the city of Norwich is packed with history, culture and heritage. If you’re looking for a classic British seaside holiday, there are also lively resorts like Great Yarmouth, Cromer, Hunstanton and Wells-next-the-Sea. Read on to discover more about staycations in Norfolk.

Types of accommodation

Looking for somewhere to stay in Norfolk? You’ll be hard-pressed to run out of options. Whether you’re looking for a romantic break for two, a large family getaway, or a unique experience, there’s plenty of accommodation to choose from.

One of the best ways to enjoy Norfolk’s incredible outdoors is by camping. There are many campsites all around Norfolk, whether you’re looking for back to basics camping or a relaxing stay within the marshes of the Broads. For something a little more luxurious, glamping offers you the chance to enjoy all the nature Norfolk has to offer, but with the home comforts you won’t get from camping.

Norfolk also has plenty of B&Bs and hotels, ranging from budget to five stars. Many of the luxury hotels also have spas, and a little spa break is the perfect way to indulge on a staycation.

If you’re staying a little longer in Norfolk, a holiday cottage can offer a more comfortable stay. There are tons of options for self-catering holiday homes and cottages, from rustic barn conversions to a traditional cottage dating back to the 1800s.

Different attractions

With so many attractions in Norfolk, you won’t have time to be bored. If you’re on staycation with the kids, one of the best places to go for some family fun is Wroxham Miniature Worlds. This is the largest indoor modelling attraction in the UK, with some of the world’s largest model railways. There are also model cars, interactive flight and train simulators, and Little Brick World, a whole city made up of over 130,000 Lego bricks.

Another great day out is Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden in the heart of the Broads. Spread over 130 acres, this award-winning organic garden is filled with ancient woodland, water gardens and a private Broad with over 3.5 miles of paths that meander through the gardens. Summer is a fantastic time to visit as you’ll see hydrangeas, philadelphus and many wildflowers in full bloom. After exploring, enjoy a cream tea or a light lunch at the eco-tearoom. The gardens have various events running throughout the summer months, so keep an eye out on their website!

If you’re interested in historic houses, you’ll enjoy a visit to Felbrigg Hall. This 17th century country house is a fine example of impressive Jacobean architecture. Take a tour of the house and see the bedrooms, the kitchen and the gothic style library. The gardens are quite impressive, with a Walled Garden, West Garden, the Orangery, and the Kitchen Garden. And it doesn’t stop there – the estate at Felbrigg comprises 520 acres of woods and rolling parkland. Take one the many paths and stop by the lake for a picnic.

A must-see attraction is one of the most famous 12th century castles in England, Castle Rising. Built around 1140AD, it has served as a hunting lodge and royal residence, and is one the largest and best kept keeps in the country. Discover what it was like living in the castle, and climb up to the gatehouse for some panoramic views. Throughout the year there are tons of exciting events at the castle, like historical re-enactments, medieval swordsmanship displays and archery.

Places of interest

Foxley Wood is a great place if you want to head outdoors. This nature reserve covers 300 acres and is the largest remaining area of ancient woodland in Norfolk. Some parts of the woods are over 6,000 years old. The woods are home to over 350 flowering plant species including lily of the valley and early purple orchids. As an SSSI, Nature Conservation Review site and a National Nature Reserve, there is plenty of wildlife to see here. You’ll find a wealth of woodland birds such as garden warblers, turtle doves, chiffchaffs and great spotted woodpeckers. Take one of the many tracks that wind through the woods and enjoy the summer displays of meadowsweet and butterflies.

Another beautiful nature spot is Blakeney National Nature Reserve. Situated near the villages of Blakeney, Morston and Cley-next-the-Sea, Blakeney Point is home to the country’s largest grey seal colony. The best way to get up close and personal with the seals is by boat trip which departs from Morston Quay. If you fancy a walk, the Norfolk Coast Path runs right along the nature reserve, and you’ll find miles of footpaths around the area. The Blakeney to Stiffkey Coastal Walk goes along a pristine saltmarsh and has views over vast open landscape. The Blakeney Freshes and Friary Hills Circular Walk offers stunning views over three different habitats.

It wouldn’t be a trip to Norfolk without visiting the Norfolk Broads National Park. This National Park is unique as it’s made up of over 125 miles of navigable lock-free waterways. The best way to explore is from the serenity of the water. You can hire canoes and kayaks, or take one of the boat trips. The Broads are also navigable by land, and there are plenty of walks and cycle routes that go through peaceful countryside and picturesque villages.