2010/11
Your guide to all things Norfolk
Holkham Bay
Welcome
Photo: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
Welcome to the norfolk Guide, your brand new guide to all things Norfolk. Use this guide to take your first steps towards a relaxing and rewarding break in one of the most fascinating and beautiful counties in England.
16 HUNSTANTON
30 SHERINGHAM, MUNDESLEY & NORTH WALSHAM 32 CROMER
4 NORWICH
18 HOLT
34 BURNHAM MARKET, SWAFFHAM & DEREHAM 36 KING’S LYNN
12 DISS & HARLESTON 14 THE BROADS
20 DOWNHAM MARKET 22 CLEY, BLAKENEY & BRANCASTER 38 GREAT YARMOUTH 40 ROUND-UP
24 WALSINGHAM, FAKENHAM, WYMONDHAM & SANDRINGHAM
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Norfolk Guide is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd, Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge CB23 4EY. Tel. 01954 267696. If you would like to advertise in the next edition or require more information, please contact Charlie Roadley-Battin on 01449 767862. © Thompson Media Partners Ltd.
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All photos www.tournorfolk.co.uk except Dragon Hall, Plantation Garden & Gentleman’s Walk, www.visitnorwich.co.uk
SNorwich A visit to Norwich will bring you to the very heart of East Anglia, one of the finest heritage cities in the land where you’ll discover over 1,000 years of history, a buzzing cultural scene and UK top 10 shopping. The most complete medieval city in Britain Thanks to its medieval origins as Britain’s second city, Norwich has an historic fabric that stands comparison with the finest heritage cities in the UK. Over 1,500 historic buildings lie within the city walls and the city’s compact scale means you can easily explore on foot. As well as two magnificent cathedrals and an imposing Norman castle, you’ll find more medieval churches than any other city north of the Alps within the city’s pretty medieval streets such as the wonderfully preserved Elm Hill with its cobbles and half-timbered houses. Dragon Hall, with its superb dragon crownpost roof, is the only medieval trading hall known to survive in Western Europe and a
unique historical treasure. Tucked away but well worth seeking out, The Plantation Garden is a wonderfully restored late Victorian town garden with a gothic fountain, rustic bridge, an Italianate terrace and hundreds of architectural details fashionable in the mid19th century. Many of the city’s heritage sites can be explored through guided walks and tours, visitor attractions, exhibitions, music and performances, cafés, restaurants and gift shops. Dragon Hall, 115-123 King Street (01603 663922) The Plantation Garden, 4 Earlham Road (01603 621868)
www.visitnorwich.co.uk
Norwich Castle & Gallery
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www.visitnorwich.co.uk
River Wensum Dragon Hall Plantation Garden Norwich River Bus Gentleman’s Walk Whitlingham Country Park
Norwich Cathedral
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Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
Tombland Norwich Market Theatre Royal
SNorwich A City of Culture Shortlisted for the prestigious title of UK City of Culture 2013, Norwich offers a vibrant cultural scene with a wealth of fantastic cultural experiences whether you enjoy the performing and visual arts or you're inspired by fine buildings and amazing history. The iconic Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery stands proud over the city and offers both permanent and visiting exhibitions whilst lunchtime concerts can be enjoyed in the delightful music room at the Assembly House. The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts offers outstanding collections of contemporary and world art and Europe's largest permanent digital screen gallery, Fusion, can be found in the city's landmark Forum building. Norwich has a remarkable choice of theatre including Norwich Theatre Royal, one of the most successful touring theatres
in the country and whose programme includes top West End shows, operas and ballets and the Norwich Puppet Theatre, one of only two puppet theatres in the UK. Add to this already heady mix an incredibly diverse range of cinema, literature, music and festivals and you have one amazing city. Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Meadow (01603 493625) The Assembly House, Theatre Street (01603 626402) The Sainsbury Centre, University of East Anglia (01603 593199) Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street (01603 630000) Norwich Puppet Theatre, St James, Whitefriars (01603 629921) Maddermarket Theatre, St John’s Alley (01603 620917)
www.visitnorwich.co.uk
The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts
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Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
Elm Hill Jarrolds department store Norwich Train Station
SNorwich Never a Dull Moment other fun activities plus an amphitheatre where on a busy lunchtime you can sit and watch street entertainers and performers - Covent Garden style. When the weather is kind and you want to explore ‘hidden Norwich’ why not plan some time to visit the Bishop’s Garden at Norwich Cathedral, or try a children’s stained glass window workshop at the beautiful church of St Peter Hungate in Princess Street. The Norfolk & Norwich Festival takes place every year in May and features a fantastic line-up of music, arts, theatre and entetrianment throughout the city for two weeks.
www.visitnorwich.co.uk
Open air theatres, festivals, guided walks, bandstand concerts and more. Every year the city has a great programme of entertainment, from free activities in parks and open spaces to outdoor theatre. With interactive workshops, music, performances, sporting activities, arts and crafts, there really is something for everyone. There are weekend bandstand concerts throughout the summer in many of the Norwich parks offering wonderful live music and the opportunity to take along your homemade picnic. Don’t forget to visit The Forum where you will find the Millennium Library with story-telling and
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Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
Castle Mall Royal Arcade Chapelfield
SNorwich One of the UK's top 10 places to shop
Norwich Lanes
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lifestyle shopping and also offer plenty of independent cafĂŠs and restaurants where you can grab a coffee or smoothie or relax with a leisurely lunch before hitting the shops again. The heart of the Lanes is just a few minutes' walk from the city's colourful market which is open MondaySaturday. The city has had its own award-winning family-run independent department store, Jarrold, since 1823 whilst the art nouveau Royal Arcade is home to the one and only Colman's Mustard Shop and Museum. Colman's Mustard Shop and Museum, Royal Arcade (01603 627889) www.visitnorwich.co.uk
Photo: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
It's not hard to see why Norwich ranks so high for shopping. With its large pedestrian areas and bustling lanes, its quirky independent shops, six day open-air market and spacious modern shopping malls, Norwich is truly a unique destination for shoppers. Norwich has all the UK's leading department stores including John Lewis, Marks and Spencer, House of Fraser, Bhs and Debenhams. The Mall Norwich and Chapelfield shopping centres have over 150 stores between them whilst dozens of independent shops, many within the historic Norwich Lanes area, bring an extra dimension to any trip. The pretty streets and narrow alleys of the Lanes embrace all aspects of contemporary
Diss town Clock tower in Harleston Diss Mere
SD i s s Diss is a successful, picturesque market town with parkland, play areas, live entertainment facilities, and the recent winner of the 'Best Kept Market Town in Norfolk'. Fine examples of period architecture can be enjoyed including timber-framed buildings and Georgian and Edwardian facades. Norfolk House Yard is an attractive courtyard with individual specialist shops and coffee shops. The Mere, a six acre lake, is said to be the second deepest in the country. In the severe winters of the 19th century skating carnivals were often held on the Mere and even a cricket match in 1827. Nearby Bressingham is a must to visit with its amazing Steam museum, with over five miles of narrow-gauge steam lines and four journeys to choose from, 20 acres of gardens - renowned worldwide for their horticultural excellence - and its Dad’s Army exhibition, which comprises a recreation of Walmington on Sea the fictional home to Captain Mainwaring and his men.
SHarleston Harleston is a treasured market town nestling in the Waveney Valley, which has a wealth of fine Georgian houses, individual shops and a summer arts festival. The attractive Italianate clock tower overlooking the market place has recently been restored and there is a wealth of interesting architecture and speciality shops, for example a shop which stocks in excess of 40 different varieties of cheese, and a nationally acclaimed butcher. The Waveney Valley is perfect for discovery on foot or cycle with its numerous way-marked routes and quiet country lanes including much of the ‘Angles Way’. Wednesday is market day in Harleston. Diss Mere
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Photos www.tournorfolk.co.uk
ST h e Broads One of the most popular inland waterways in Europe, the Norfolk Broads National Park is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing break with their historic churches, mills and windpumps. The northern section of the Broads, with the bustling village of Wroxham at their heart, the starting point for many Broads holidays and river trips, is formed around the rivers Bure, Thurne and Ant. Hickling is the largest of the Broads, with 500 acres of open water and Norfolk Wildlife Trust's extensive nature reserve. Enjoy a guided trip on Barton Broad about 'Ra', Britain's first passenger-carrying solar boat, or take the board-walk to the water's edge. At How Hill Nature Reserve you will find Toad Hole Cottage, a tiny, former eel-catcher's cottage, where the silent Electric Eel will take you on a wildlife water trail through the reeds and marshes.
How Hill
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Photo: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
The Norfolk Broads is Britain's largest protected wetland with status equivalent to a National Park. The beautiful, wild expanse of 200km of lock-free navigable rivers, shallow lakes, woodland, fens and grazing marshes, is home to some of the rarest plants and wildlife in the UK from the Swallowtail butterfly to the reclusive bittern. Without doubt, the best way to enjoy the Broads is by boat. You can hire sailing boats, motor cruisers (by the house or day), canoes, electric boats, and even charter one of the few remaining Norfolk Wherry yachts, complete with crew. And with all that water, it's a haven for anglers. It is also the perfect location for cycling and walking, with wide skies, quiet lanes and scenic views. Why not hire a bike and explore one of the many charming Broads towns and villages
River Thurne Salhouse Broad Loddon Staithe Broads Tours Swan Inn, Horning
Photo: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
Wroxham Bridge
Climb the winding, spiral stone staircase of Ranworth church for magnificent views of the Broads and discover the floating conservation centre moored on Ranworth Broad - great for birdwatching. The southern area of the Broads, around the rivers Yare, Chet and Waveney, is quieter than the northern Broads, but you will find many attractive riverside pubs in places like Bramerton, Surlingham and Loddon, while Brundall boasts a busy marina and Richard Hughes' celebrated Lavender House restaurant. The historic ferry at Reedham offers one of the only river crossing in the southern Broads and you can take in the delightful scenery and wildlife on board Liana, an Edwardian-style electric launch, from Beccles.
Broads Tours scheduled river cruises from Wroxham or Potter Heigham 01603 782207; Electric Eel wildlife water trail at How Hill 01692 678763; Helen of Ranworth electric reed lighter 01603 270453; Liana electric boat trip from Beccles Quay 01502 713196; Ra solar boat trip on Barton Broad 01603 782281. Canoe and cycle hire Barnes Brinkcraft 01603 782625; Broadland Cycle Hire 07887 480331; TheCanoeMan.com 07810 838052; Waveney River Centre 01502 677343; Whitlingham Country Park 01603 617332. Day cruisers Barnes Brinkcraft 01603 782625; Ferry Marina 01692 631111; Norfolk Broads Direct 01603 782207 www.visitnorwich.co.uk norfolkguide 15
Photos www.tournorfolk.co.uk
SHunstanton Hunstanton, or ‘Sunny Hunny’ as it is affectionately known, is the ideal location for a seaside holiday with all the trimmings. Famous for its striped cliffs, acres of sand and clear, shallow water, Hunstanton also offers lots of fun attractions for all ages. The town was purpose built as a seaside resort in 1846 by local landowner Henry Styleman le Strange and gained popularity as early as the 1860s. Today, Hunstanton retains its Victorian character and remains a popular holiday location for all ages but particularly families. The town possibly takes its name from the River Hunn, which begins in the grounds of Old Hunstanton Park and Old Moated Hall, the Ancestral home of the Le Strange Family. Hunstanton is known as Sunny Hunny for very good reason. The town faces west across a 20 mile wide stretch of shallow, sheltered water
The Famous Red and White Cliffs of Hunstanton are visited by hundreds each year simply to see this spectacular natural geological feature. The Red Rock and White Lower Chalk is rich in fossils including echinoids, fish, shark, bivalves and brachiopods, ammonites and more.
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almost the width of the English Channel, and is the only west-facing resort on the east coast. Hunstanton enjoys truly world-class sunsets and records some of the highest sun-time in the summer, so it is likely that a holiday in Hunstanton will be a sunny one. There are two sides to Hunstanton, the elegant and sedate Victorian resort with its Esplanade Gardens and the buzzing family resort with attractions such as the Oasis Leisure Centre, Crazy Golf and Pitch-and-Putt Course. You can take a boat trip to see the seals or visit the Sea Life Sanctuary. In the evening why not take the family to the Funfair or visit the Princess Theatre to enjoy a show. Old Hunstanton, a silver award winner, 2009 Anglia in Bloom, has more of a village feel with cottages built of Norfolk carrstone and great pubs and hotels. You can walk from one resort
www.tournorfolk.co.uk
The Chapel and Lighthouse St Mary’s, Old Hunstanton The red chalk of Hunstanton Cliffs Funfair North Promenade Gardens
to the other, so you can enjoy the buzz of the resort in the morning then spend a lazy afternoon lying amongst the dunes. Hunstanton's popular land train runs regularly through the summer months carrying visitors from Searles Leisure Resort to the lighthouse and back again. On weekends throughout the season there are always events taking place on Hunstanton green and bandstand. In and around Hunstanton High Street you’ll find shops to suit all needs, from last minute holiday essentials such as a bucket and spade to high street fashion for all ages, as well as gifts for the home and garden, kites, surf boards, kite-surfing and wind surfing equipment, model toys and homemade sweets. There are a number of small cafes, tea rooms,
chip shops and restaurants and along the sea front there are the usual purveyors of fresh sea food, Hunstanton Rock, ice cream and donuts. Hunstanton Land Train (01485 534211) Princess Theatre, The Green PE36 5AH (01485 532252) Oasis Sports & Leisure Centre, Central Promenade PE36 5BD (01485 534227) Searles Lesiure Resort, South Beach (01485 534211) Sea Tours (01485 534444) Hunstanton Sea Life Sanctuary, Southern Promenade PE36 5BH (01485 533576) Le Strange Old Barns, Antiques Arts and Crafts Centre, Old Hunstanton PE36 6JG (01485 533402) Hunstanton markets: Wednesdays and a larger market on Sunday. norfolkguide 17
Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
Holt town Holt Country Park Holt station
SH o l t 100 acre woodland that hosts family events throughout the year as well as offering waymarked walks for all abilities, and boasts a prestigious Green Flag award. The Shell Museum, Church House, Glandford NR25 7JR (01263 740081) Wolterton Hall, nr Erpingham (01263 584175 / 768444) Letheringsett Watermill, Riverside Road, Letheringsett NR25 7YD (01263 713153) Holt Country Park Baconsthorpe Castle English Heritage (01223 582700) Mannington Hall, NR11 7BB (01263 584175) A&J Young Pottery and Pot Shop, Common Farm, Lower Gresham NR11 8RE (01263 577548) Picturecraft Gallery, 23 Lees Yard, off Bull Street NR25 6HS (01263 711040) The Appleyard Gallery, 14 Appleyard NR25 6AR (01263 712315)
One of Holt’s shopping yards
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Photo: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
The pretty market town of Holt is a Georgian gem of washed stone High Street and flint lined yards harbouring a range of quality galleries, tea rooms, pubs, antique shops and specialist food stores. Holt is one of the country's best-preserved Georgian market towns. Destroyed by fire three centuries ago, the town was rebuilt all at once and reborn in the smart style that makes it so popular with visitors seeking the perfect blend of the homely and the refined. In winter, the town's continental style of onstreet cafes and dazzling colour cascading from hanging baskets gives way to a fairy wonderland of Christmas lights. In all seasons, Holt is an ideal base to explore the North Norfolk hinterland, whether to the coast (only three miles away) or the countryside. Holt Country Park, just south of the town, is a
TourNorfolk is a great website that helps you discover different places in Norfolk. Using photographs, maps and text, the website is arranged as a series of online guided tours that show you what places actually look like. In the comfort of your own home, you can click your way around Norfolk and follow the guided tours that interest you, either by place or by theme, examples being Norfolk Coast, Great Yarmouth, Norwich, Norfolk Beaches or Pet Friendly Norfolk. You can use the tours to discover what to see and do in the area, with links to local tourist attractions and holiday accommodation providers.
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Clock tower Denver Windmill Market Day
SDownham Market A few miles south of Downham Market is the renowned Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Centre at Welney. Discover this special wetland environment and its wildlife at the easy access visitor centre. Visit in November for the Festival of the Swans and throughout winter to marvel at the thousands of birds who use it as their winter home. Also easy to reach are the nearby attractions Gooderstone Water Gardens and Oxburgh Hall. Downham Market provides the perfect base for exploring the Fen Rivers Way long distance trail along with excellent bird watching, angling, golf and sailing opportunities nearby. Denver Windmill and tearoom, Denver (01366 384009) Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre, Stow Bardolph (01366 382162) Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Centre, Hundred Foot Bank, Welney (01353 860711) Gooderstone Water Gardens, The Street, Gooderstone (01603 712913) Oxburgh Hall, Oxborough (01366 328258) Downham Market market days: Friday and Saturday, an additional craft and collectable market is held on alternate Saturdays. www.westnorfolk.com
www.downhammarkettowncouncil.org.uk
Dating back to Saxon times, Downham Market is a gateway to West Norfolk and one of the oldest market towns in Norfolk. The attractive market place is immediately identifiable by the splendidly unusual black and white clock. The town retains a really intimate feel, characterised by many fine buildings, a bustling market on Friday and Saturday and a host of local independent shops, friendly cafĂŠs and pubs. Downham Market is the ideal centre for visiting and enjoying a variety of attractions and activities in the surrounding Fens. Through the pretty village of Denver, you can visit the wonderfully restored Denver Windmill with its tearoom serving freshly baked cakes and bread. Just down the road from the windmill is the fascinating Denver Sluice complex, instrumental in the drainage and water management of the Fens. This is a fascinating place to explore, watch the boats, have a picnic or pop into the local pub. Again close to Downham Market the children will enjoy a visit to Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre at Stow Bardolph, including an indoor 'treehouse' play area, tractor rides, guided nature walks, gift shop and tea room.
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Photos www.tournorfolk.co.uk (Except Seal at Blakeney Point)
SBlakeney The village and small port of Blakeney is situated at the mouth of the River Glaven on the north Norfolk coast between Wells next the Sea and Sheringham. Blakeney is an attractive destination with narrow lanes of flint cottages, traditional pubs serving local real ale, a fine church and medieval Guildhall and, with the opportunities for crabbing, fishing, canoeing, birdwatching, yachting and sailing pleasure craft, is a popular spot for tourists. Visitors can stay at the 15-acre caravan site, or at Blakeney's large hotels, The Manor and The Blakeney. Blakeney is also the perfect location from which to explore the great outdoors; the North Norfolk Coastal Path passes through the village, and it lies within Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the North Norfolk Heritage Coast.
Blakeney also has the largest coastal nature reserve in England and Wales, including the National Trust owned Blakeney Point, a 3.5 mile long sand and shingle spit, which is home to colonies of common and grey seals. At high tide you can take a boat trip from Morston Quay and get up close to the seals as they bask on the sand. Blakeney Point also offers a wilderness walk along dunes where rare turns make their nests in the safety of the reserve. Blakeney Point Nature Reserve (01263 740241) Norfolketc, RYA sailing courses and powerboat courses. Morston Quay (01263 740704) Wiveton Downs & Blakeney Esker (01603 222770) Temples Seal Trips, The Street, Morston (01263 740791)
SCley next the sea The picturesque village of Cley next the Sea lies just east of Blakeney, on the River Glaven, in the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the North Norfolk Heritage Coast. Visitors will find brick and flint houses, narrow lanes and sea paths, art and craft galleries including 'Made In Cley' selling pottery, prints, jewellery and sculptures - specialist food shops such as Cley Smokehouse - pubs, a teashop and a magnificent church, as well as Cley's famous saltmarshes, one of Britain's premier bird-watching sites. Due to land reclamation the village is no longer 'next the sea'. The River Glaven, once navigable by large ships, began to silt up in the early 17th century. The area that is now the village green was, during the Middle Ages, a thriving trading port exporting and importing cloth, 22 norfolkguide
grain, malt, spices and coal. Cley is also known for its landmark, Cley Windmill, a fine 18th century mill that now serves as holiday home and is one of The Independents' recommended top 50 British hotels for 2010. Beyond the windmill there are the paths and creeks of Cley Marshes to explore. Norfolk Wildlife Trust's Cley Nature Reserve, on the edge of the marshes and overlooked by a glassed visitor centre, has an international reputation and is popular with bird-watchers who come to see migrant and wading birds. NWT Cley Marshes Nature Reserve & Visitor Centre, Coast Road (01263 740008) Made In Cley art and craft gallery, High Street (01263 740134) Cley Smokehouse, High Street_NR25 7RF (01263 740282)
Blakeney Seal at Blakeney Point North Coast Path at Blakeney Brancaster Cley Windmill
Blakeney
SBrancaster and Brancaster Staithe The neighboring villages of Brancaster, Brancaster Staithe and Burnham Deepdale on the North Norfolk coast line up along the edge of Brancaster Bay and the offshore barrier island, Scolt Head. Much of the beautiful coastline at Brancaster of sandy beaches, stretches of Marram grass, saltmarsh and sad dunes - is owned by the National Trust. For great coastal views and wildlife follow the Norfolk Coast Path. There's also the 16km Brancaster Circular Walk, which be split into two equal circuits, one west and the other east of Brancaster. The pretty fishing village of Brancaster Staithe, with sailing boats and seafood for sale, is a hotspot for those wishing to learn to sail, windsurf or para surf. Boats and boards are available for hire at the SailCraft Sea School at the harbour. Brancaster Staithe Harbour, beach and Scolt Head Island National Nature Reserve is particularly popular with birdwatchers; the extensive areas of saltmarsh, intertidal mud and sandflats
attract internationally important numbers of breeding terns and wintering wildfowl, and waders such as shelduck, wigeon, teal and curlew. During the holidays the Brancaster Millennium Activity Centre at Brancaster Staithe runs courses for families and children, in everything from weaving and watercolours to baking and birdwatching. Brancaster Bay Shellfish, Brancaster Staithe Harbour (01485 210035/07787 117350) The Crab Hut, Harbour Way, Brancaster Staithe Harbour. Open: April-October (01485 525369) Brancaster Brewery, Tap at The Jolly Sailors, Brancaster Staithe (01485 210314) Brancaster Millennium Activity Centre, The Dial House, Harbour Way, Brancaster Staithe (01485 210719) The Jolly Sailors and Brancaster Brewery, Main Road, Brancaster Staithe (01485 210414) The White Horse, Brancaster Staithe (01485 210262) norfolkguide 23
Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk (except Fakenham Racecourse)
SWalsingham Walsingham, known as 'England's Nazereth', has been a place of pilgrimage since medieval times. Comprised of two conjoined villages, Little Walsingham and Great Walsingham, it is famed for its religious shrines in honour of the Virgin Mary. The Wells Walsingham Light Railway is the longest 10 1/4" narrow gauge steam railway in the world and the wonderful scenic journey with five bridges through lovely countryside is worth taking.
SFakenham Fakenham is a market town situated on the River Wensum that is famous for its national hunt racecourse. Worth visiting is the Fakenham Museum of Gas housed in the town's former gasworks, which ceased production of gas from the heating of coal in 1965 following the discovery of Natural Gas in the North Sea. Pensthorpe Nature Reserve and Gardens has nture trails, a play area for children and a lovely Courtyard CafĂŠ.
SWymondham
Wymondham Abbey
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Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
Wymondham is an historic market town with an attractive town centre, a number of notable old buildings and a good range of shops. Wymondham Abbey, founded in 1101, is one of the finest and most interesting of the historic churches of East Anglia. Its two tall towers dominate the countryside for miles around. Wymondham’s most famous inhabitant was Robert Kett (or Ket), who in 1549 led a rebellion of peasants and small farmers who were protesting the enclosure of common land. He took a force of almost unarmed men, and fought for and held the City of Norwich for six weeks until defeated by the King's forces. He was hanged from Norwich Castle. Kett's Oak, said to be the rallying point for the rebellion, may still be seen today on the B1172 road between Wymondham and Hethersett.
Wymondham Walsingham Priory Fakeneham Racecourse Sandringham Gardens & Lake Sandringham House Sandringham Museum
Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
Sandringham House
SSandringham The village of Sandringham, just north of King's Lynn, is best known for Sandringham House and estate, the Queen's favoured country retreat. Much of the house, including ground floor rooms used by the Royal Family, is open to the public, as well as acres of gardens and a museum housing collections of Royal vehicles, rare ceramics, photographs and memorabilia. The house, built in 1870 by the Prince and Princess of Wales (later King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra), has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs, and the decor and contents remain much as they were in Edwardian times. The sixty acres of gardens that surround the house have been added to and adapted by each of Sandringham's Royal generations, and feature woodland walks, carrstone rockeries, formal Edwardian gardens with pleached lime avenues and a stream walk. The estate's 600 acre Country Park is open to the public every day at no charge. There are many woodland paths to explore and two waymarked Nature Trails, one 1.5 miles and the other 2.5 miles long. Tractor and trailer tours run daily when the house is open, which, for a small charge, offer an easy way to see the park. The beautiful medieval church, where the Royal Family worship while they are at Sandringham, is also open to the public during the visitor season. The highly decorated interior contains a magnificent silver altar and pulpit, together with a very fine 16th century processional cross and a number of memorials to the Royal Family. Sandringham house, museum and gardens. Open every day: April-July. Re-opens August-October. Average time of visit: allow 3 _ hours. House: 11am-4.45pm (4pm in October). Museum: 11am-5pm (4pm in October). Gardens: 10.30am-5pm (4pm in October). Guided garden tours Wednesdays and Saturdays 11am and 2pm. Sandringham Estate PE35 6EN (01553 612908)
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Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
SWells next the Sea Sitting at the quay crabbing - or gillieing - is a longstanding tradition for holidaymakers at Wells-next-the-Sea. Wells, with its small working harbour, is dominated by a 100-year-old granary building, whose gantry overhangs the harbourfront as a reminder of past glories. The town is also known for its sweeping sandy beach and the stilt-high huts in primary colours that look out across the beach at the mouth of the harbour. The town is a network of narrow streets, old alleys and yards. Some of the town's buildings are hundreds of years old, and many, including former coaching inns and public houses, are listed buildings. A great way to travel through the area is by using the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway, which is the longest 10_ inch narrow gauge line in the world. This runs from Wells to the holy village of Walsingham, where pilgrims come to this day to worship at the Roman Catholic and Anglican shrines.
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A short distance from Wells is Holkham estate, with its stately Palladian mansion, Bygones Museum, deer park and Holkham beach. Wells is a haven for wildlife. The salt marshes are a particular attraction for sea birds, and off the coast you can see common and grey seals. Bird and seal watching boat trips leave from Wells throughout the summer months, taking visitors to nearby Blakeney Point. The time to see seal pups is during July and August. Bean’s Boat Trips: www.beansboattrips.co.uk (01263 740038 / 01263 740505) Bishop’s Boats: www.norfolksealtrips.co.uk 01263 740753 Temples Seal Trips: (01263 740791) www.sealtrips.easternengland.co.uk Wells & Walsingham Railway, Grove Road NR23 1QB (01328 711630) Binham Priory NR21 0DQ The Real Ale Shop, Branthill Farm NR23 1SB (01328 710810) Holkham Hall, Holkham Estate NR23 1AB (01328 710227)
The Granary Wells & Walsingham Railway Path from town to beach Staithe Street Creek from the harbour
The beautiful beach at Wells
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Photos www.tournorfolk.co.uk
SSheringham A plume of steam is often seen rising above the heart of Sheringham, as engines embark from The Poppy Line heritage railway along the coast to Holt. The Poppy Line station hosts themed events throughout the year, recalling a golden age of the railways with steam and diesel engines, or evoking the magic of Christmas with Santa Specials. Sheringham boasts an array of independent shops, and there is a wealth of attractions in and around the town. ‘Splash’ is a family leisure pool with fitness facilities, while the enchanting Priory Maze & Gardens lie around the ruins of the 13th Century Augustinian Friary of St Mary at Beeston Regis. The National Trust's Sheringham Park is a mature woodland with paths and walks punctuated by viewing platforms for taking in the stunning colour of the rhododendrons and azaleas that blossom from mid-May to mid-June. A treetop platform gives breathtaking coastal views.
Sheringham beach
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North Norfolk Railway, Sheringham Station, Station Approach NR26 8RA (01263 820800) Sheringham Park National Trust, Visitor Centre, Wood Farm, Upper Sheringham NR26 8TL (01263 820550) Priory Maze & Gardens, Cromer Road, Beeston Regis NR26 8SF (01263 822986) Muckleburgh Collection, Muckleburgh House, Weybourne Road, Kelling NR25 7EG (01263 588210) Splash Leisure & Fitness Centre, Weybourne Road NR26 8HF (01263 825675) Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road NR26 8RE (01263 822347) Hilltop Outdoor Centre, Old Wood NR26 8TS (01263 824514) Sheringham Market: Every Saturday and Wednesdays April-October The Fishermen's Heritage Centre, West Cliff (01263 824343) Splash Leisure & Fitness Centre, Weybourne Road (01263 825675)
Sheringham streets Sheringham Promenade Sheringham Station Mundesley beach North Walsham
Mundesley beach
SNorth Walsham and Mundesley Ideally situated for both the Norfolk Broads and the coast, North Walsham is a market town of Georgian frontage dominated by the large 14th Century 'wool church' of St Nicholas and boasting a 400-year-old Palladian-style 'Cross'. Explore the byways around North Walsham to find medieval churches, cosy pubs and the tranquil waterways of the Broads. Venture towards the coast and you will come across the fine sandy beaches of Mundesley. The pocket sized cliff top seaside resort, with its colourful beach huts and Blue Flag beach, has proved a popular destination for visitors looking for a traditional seaside holiday.
Mundesley Maritime Museum, 12 Beach Road NR11 8BG Stow Mill, Paston NR28 9TG (01263 720298) St Nicholas Church, North Walsham NR28 9AT Southrepps Common Local Nature Reserve, Lower Southrepps Alby Crafts & Gardens, Cromer Road, Erpingham NR11 7QE (01263 761590) Cat Pottery, 1 Grammar School Road, North Walsham NR28 9JH (01692 402962) Rossi’s Leisure, Aylsham Road, North Walsham (01692 404966) Norfolk Motorcycle Museum, Station Approach, Norwich Road, North Walsham (01692 406266) Victory Swimming & Fitness Centre, Station Road, North Walsham (01692 409370) norfolkguide 31
Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
SCromer Cromer is a Victorian gem, with a seafront townscape that rises steeply from the Promenade and is crowned by the finials of one of Norfolk’s tallest and most imposing church towers. North Norfolk's best-known landmark, Cromer Pier, recalls a golden age of British seaside holidaymaking. The Pavilion Theatre hosts one of the country's last end-of-the-pier summer variety shows, along with concerts for all the family throughout the year. Cafes, gift shops and amusements sit above the beach, while the new RNLI Henry Blogg Museum gives insights into the bravery of those men who risk their lives to save others at sea. The newly-refurbished Cromer Museum, adjacent to the church at the heart of the town, is also a trove for those interested in local history. The Amazona Zoo opened on the edge of Cromer in 2008, bringing the colour of tropical
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South America to the North Norfolk coast. The National Trust’s Felbrigg Hall, just two miles from Cromer, has a lush walled garden and acres of parkland and woodland to explore. Cromer crabs are still as famous as ever with fishing boats, launched from the beach in season, tending to hundreds of crab pots Cromer Pier & Pavilion Theatre NR27 9HE Box office (01263 512495) Henry Blogg Museum, The Rocket House, The Gangway NR27 9ET (01263 511294) Cromer Museum, Church Street NR27 9HB (01263 513543) Felbrigg Hall, Garden and Park NR11 8PR (01263 837444) Wizard Adventure Maze, Hall Farm, Metton NR11 8QU (01263 761255) Amazona Zoo, Hall Road NR27 0JH (01263 510741) The Cromer Road Train (07792 484820) Cromer Movieplex, 4 Hans Place NR27 9EQ (01263 513311)
Town view from church tower Cromer Pier Cromer crabs Cromer beach Town streets and church
Late afternoon on Cromer cliff top
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Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
SBurnham Market The pretty North Norfolk coastal village of Burnham Market is full of delightful houses, cottages and quirky shops all situated around a village green. Burnham is known as ‘Chelsea-on-Sea’ for its popularity with visitors from London. With shops and galleries selling high class antiques, paintings, food, fish and fashion it is the perfect destination for shopping, eating out or simply just chilling and people watching. The village is within a designated area of outstanding natural beauty and near the nature reserves at Titchwell, Holme, Holkham and Cley, as well as the historical visitor attractions Holkham Hall, Houghton Hall and the Royal Estate of Sandringham. Gurney’s Fish Shop, Market Place, Burnham Market PE31 8HF (01328 738967) Lucy’s Tea
Room, Tyne Cottage, Market Place PE318HD (01328 730908) Humble Pie delicatessen, Market Place, Burnham Market PE31 8HF (01328 738581) Burnham Grapevine contemporary art gallery, Overy Road, Burnham Market PE31 8HH (01328 730125) The Jockey pub and restaurant, Creake Road, Burnham Market PE31 8EN (01328 738321) Storm Fine Arts, Fern Cottage, Market Place, Burnham Market PE31 8HD (01328 730675) The Hoste Arms, The Green, Burnham Market PE31 8HD (01328 738777) Holkham Hall, Holkham Estate NR23 1AB (01328 710227) Houghton Hall, off A148 King's Lynn to Cromer road, PE31 6UE (01485 528569) Bean’s Boat Trips, Blakeney/Morston (01263 740505/01263 740038)
Photo: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
Burnham Market
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Gurneys in Burnham Market Burnham Overy Staithe Hoste Arms, Burnham Market St’Mary’s Church Burnham Thorpe
Late afternoon on Cromer cliff top
Swaffham
SSwaffham Swaffham is a delightful town, recently used for the TV series Kingdom starring Stephen Fry. It is also the childhood home of the Egyptologist, Howard Carter. The town has a great weekly market on Saturdays, beautiful Georgian buildings and a magnificent church. A trip to the Ecotech Centre is well worthwhile - the centre for sustainability has exhibition area, organic garden, heritage orchard, gift shop and the Orchard Café, and you can view the UK's first multi- megawatt wind turbine. Nearby Oxburgh Hall is a romantic, moated manor house. It was
built by the Bedingfeld family in the 15th century and they have lived there ever since. Inside, the family's Catholic history is revealed, complete with a secret priest's hole which you can crawl inside. See the astonishing needlework by Mary, Queen of Scots, and the private chapel, built with reclaimed materials. Outside, you can enjoy panoramic views from the gatehouse roof and follow the woodcarving trails in the gardens and woodlands. Swaffham is a great base for exploring The Brecks.
SDereham One of Norfolk's largest towns, Dereham, is also its most central point, making it an ideal touring base. Many of the town's ancient buildings were destroyed in the serious fires that took place in 1581 and 1659. Notable buildings that survived the fire include the Church of Saint
Nicholas' and the nearby Bishop Bonner's cottage. The railway between Dereham and Wymondham has been preserved, and is now operated as a tourist line by the Mid-Norfolk Railway Preservation Trust (www.mnr.org.uk). norfolkguide 35
High Street Purfleet Quay Town Hall Tales of the Old Gaol House museum
SKing’s Lynn Brim full of history, King's Lynn is an ideal destination offering a superb mix of history, heritage, shopping and entertainment. With its historic waterfront, cobbled lanes flanked by medieval merchants' houses and two magnificent market places, the town is a treat to discover and explore. Extensive pedestrianised shopping areas combine the old and new faces of Lynn. With plenty of cafÊs, restaurants and pubs, plus regular entertainment at the Corn Exchange and nearby Arts Centre, along with its exhibition galleries, the Festival town of King's Lynn is a great place to visit. King's Lynn dates back to the 12th century and beyond when it was one of England's most important ports. The historic Hanseatic town is proud of its maritime heritage and is an active member of the modern day 'Hanse' association of historic towns and cities. The town's rich past has left a magnificent heritage of buildings and stories to be discovered, and the fine old merchant houses that stretch down to the River Great Ouse between cobbled lanes are not to be missed. King's Lynn's Corn Exchange offers a sparkling programme of live entertainment, including opera, ballet, concerts, comedy and children's shows. The King's Lynn Arts Centre offers a varied programme of comedy, music, dance, film, visual arts and workshops. The fabulously atmospheric auditorium, housed in the 15th century Guildhall of St George is open to the public. King's 36 norfolkguide
Lynn is also home to a classic Victorian style cinema, the Majestic, which screens films to cater for all tastes. King's Lynn has two magnificent market places: Saturday Market Place, where St Margaret's Church is surrounded by splendid buildings, and Tuesday Market Place, quite possibly one of England's grandest squares. A great place to start your visit is the iconic Custom House with its elegant rooms, views of the river and displays that tell of the famous mariners of Lynn - including Vancouver and Nelson - as well as its merchants, customs men and smugglers. The Custom House is also home to the Tourist Information Centre, where you can pick up a copy of 'Discover King's Lynn' to explore the town, or join one of the guided walks with the King's Lynn Town Guides. If you fancy exploring further a field, why not follow the Nar Valley Way from King's Lynn to Castle Acre or take the waterways trail to Downham Market and beyond along The Fen Rivers Way. King's Lynn Arts Centre (01553 764864) King's Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place (01553 764864) Custom House, Purfleet Quay PE30 1HP (01553 763044) The Majestic Cinema, Tower St PE30 1EJ (01553 772603) Lynn Museum, home of Seahenge. Market Street PE30 1NL (01553 775001) Town House Museum, 46 Queen Street PE30 1HT (01553 773450) www.visitwestnorfolk.com
St Nicholas Chapel
Photo: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
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Photos: www.tournorfolk.co.uk
SGreat Yarmouth Great Yarmouth is a unique, fun destination for a holiday for all the family, and really has got something for everyone, whether you're in a kiss-me-quick mood on the seafront, or taking in the resort's fascinating history in the heritage quarter and quieter streets. Young in age or young at heart, relax and enjoy yourself. For candyfloss, ice-cream cones, seafront illuminations, amusements arcades, theme parks, donkey rides, entertainment, nights out on the town, razzmatazz and beautiful sandy beaches, Great Yarmouth's Golden Mile has it all. Play all day and party all night in the upbeat, up tempo seaside quarter. At the top of Regent Road, where retail therapy begins, shops, department stores and unique boutiques surround the market place, officially the town centre. For a more tranquil pace, head for the heritage quar-
Great Yarmouth’s fabulous beach
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ter and South Quay, where museums and former merchant's houses face onto the busy port area. With six museums and the second most complete medieval wall in England, you can have your fill of history, then head to the seafront to whoop down a rollercoaster. At Merrivale Model Village see town and country in miniature in an acre of landscaped gardens with a railway running through. Play crazy golf, have a go at pitch and putt, or back the winner at the horse or greyhound tracks. Let off steam on the beach, have a donkey ride or go to see the seals. Take the kids to Joyland, a fun theme park for younger children or jump in the car to see leopards and tigers at Thrigby Wildlife Gardens perhaps visit some less scary animals at Pettitts Animal Adventure Park. Get up close and personal with sharks at the
Atlantis Resort Pirate’s Cove Britannia Pier Yarmouth Eye The Mint amusements
Sea Life Centre, discover exotic creatures at Amazonia Reptilarium, go back in time at Time and Tide or Yesterday's World and explore the remains of shipwrecks at The Potteries. Visit the seafront Marina Centre for a dip in the tropical pool or go ten pin bowling on Wellington Pier overlooking the waves. As night falls, bright lights illuminate the seafront and Regent Road, take your pick from Yarmouth's choice of restaurants, cafĂŠs, pubs and diners before enjoying a show or really having a night out on the town. Merrivale Model Village, Marine Parade NR30 3JG (01493 842097) Pleasure Beach, South Beach Parade NR30 3EH Great Yarmouth Racecourse, Jellicoe Road NR30 4AU (01493 842527) Great Yarmouth Sea Life Centre,
Marine Parade NR30 3AH (01493 330631) Marina Leisure & Fitness Centre, Marine Parade NR30 2ER (01493 851521) Amazonia Reptilarium, Central Seafront, Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth NR30 3AH (01493 842202) Time & Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth, Blackfriars Road, Great Yarmouth NR30 3BX (01493 743930) Yarmouth Stadium Greyhound Racing, Yarmouth Road, Caisteron-Sea NR30 5TE (01493 720343) Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens, Thrigby Hall, Filby (01493 369477) Pettitts Animal Adventure Park, Church Road, Reedham NR13 3UA (01493 701403) Yesterdays World, 34 Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth NR30 2EN (01493 331148) Great Yarmouth Potteries and Smoke House, 18/19 Trinity Place, Great Yarmouth NR30 3HA (01493 850585) www.great-yarmouth.co.uk
View from the Haven Bridge to Town Hall Quay
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Round-up High Lodge Forest Centre, Thetford Pleasurewood Hills theme park
SThetford Forest Park
Thetford Forest is a patchwork of pines, heathland and broadleaves providing the ideal setting for a day out, and a welcome refuge for a rich variety of animal and plant life. Many visitors are attracted by the peace and tranquility of Thetford Forest as well as the wide range of recreation facilities. High Lodge is the venue where children can explore trails, use the play furniture and have fun on the large grass area. Refreshments are also available in the oak framed building. There is something for everyone somewhere in the forest and the quieter sites provide a haven for wildlife - why not take a walk at Lynford in the Arboretum or around the lake? Thetford, Brandon (01842 815544)
SBacton Wood
Bacton Wood is thought to have had tree cover since Saxon times, being protected from conversion to agriculture by its steep slopes and poor soils. The original woodland included Sessile Oaks and two of these, which are thought to be over 200 years old, still remain. There are now over 30 species of tree in the wood including Scots and Corsian Pine, Western Hemlock, Douglas Fir and Larch. There are three waymarked walks denoted by colour routed posts. Near North Walsham (01842 816010)
SPleasurewood Hills
Don't let the year slip by without a visit to the region’s biggest and best theme park, Pleasurewood Hills. This 50-acre park is set in beautiful coastal parkland and ideally situated at Lowestoft but only just 10 minutes south of Great Yarmouth. The park celebrated its 25th Anniversary in 2008 and has all the ingredients for a great day out. From adrenalin-fuelled white-knuckle thrill rides and coasters like Enigma, Wizzy Dizzy and Thunder Struck to white-water family favourites that are guaranteed to ‘cool you off’including Timber Falls and the Wave Breaker. There’s even a great selection of fun rides for the smallest of adventurers. Be sure to explore the heart of the park - ‘Main Street’and it’s unique, interactive maritime theme. The latest ride is Wipeout… the tallest, fastest and most extreme rollercoaster in the East of England. Plus there are shows, relaxing chairlift rides, and a range of restaurants. Leisure Way, Corton, Lowestoft 01502 586000
SBeers of Europe
Beers of Europe in King’s Lynn has 4,000 square feet of purpose built shop and warehouse stacked with more than 150,000 bottles and over 3000 different UK ales, world beers, ciders, malt whiskies, unusual spirits, fine wines, miniatures, homebrew equipment and branded glassware. And if you can’t get to King’s Lynn, don’t worry, toy can purchase anything from their vast range at their online store. Garage Lane, Setchey, King's Lynn 01553 812000 www.beersofeurope.co.uk 40 norfolkguide
National Rail Enquiries
08457 484950
Information
Tourist Information Centres & Other Useful Contacts Aylsham Bure Valley Railway Station Norwich Road 01263 733903 www.broadland.gov.uk Burnham Deepdale Deepdale Farms 01485 210256 www.deepdalefarm.co.uk Open all year Cromer Louden Road 0871 200 3071 www.visitnorthnorfolk.com Dereham Church Street 01362 698992 www.dereham.ontheweb.nu 42 norfolkguide
Diss Mere Street 01379 650523 www.south-norfolk.gov.uk
Holt Market Place 0871 200 3071 www.visitnorthnorfolk.com
Downham Market Priory Road 01366 383287 www.visitwestnorfolk.com
Hunstanton Town Hall, The Green 01485 532610 www.visitwestnorfolk.com
Great Yarmouth 25 Marine Parade 01493 846346 www.great-yarmouth.co.uk
King’s Lynn The Custom House, Purfleet Quay 01553 763044 www.visitwestnorfolk.com
Harleston Exchange Street 01379 851917 www.harlestonnorfolk.org.uk
Norwich The Forum, Millennium Plain T. 01603 213999 www.visitnorwich.co.uk
Thetford 2newhorizons Travel Agency Pal House, Market Place 01842 751975 www.explorethetford.co.uk Wymondham Market Cross, Market Place 01953 604721 www.wymondhamnorfolk.co.uk
USEFUL WEBSITES www.visitnorfolk.co.uk www.norfolk.gov.uk www.norwich.gov.uk www.tournorfolk.co.uk www.eastmag.com