Dean & Lorna's Guidebook for Norfolk

Lorna And Dean
Lorna And Dean
Dean & Lorna's Guidebook for Norfolk

Parks & Nature

The beach at Holkham is one of our favourites anywhere… it is know as the 'Shakespeare in Love' beach as this is where the closing scene in the film was shot - it's breathtaking. There's also a nice walk from Wells-next-the-Sea, along the beach, past the famous beach huts to the car park and a woodland walk back on a return to Wells. We usually end up buying fish and chips as a reward for the walk.
11 locals recommend
Holkham Beach car park
11 locals recommend
The beach at Holkham is one of our favourites anywhere… it is know as the 'Shakespeare in Love' beach as this is where the closing scene in the film was shot - it's breathtaking. There's also a nice walk from Wells-next-the-Sea, along the beach, past the famous beach huts to the car park and a woodland walk back on a return to Wells. We usually end up buying fish and chips as a reward for the walk.
The house and its parks are a great place for a day out too. The house has it's guided tours and the facilities there have been much upgraded over the last year or so - cafe/bar, gift shop etc. There are some nice walks around the grounds, boat trips on the lake and we also love The Victoria pub on the main road at the entrance to the grounds.
261 locals recommend
Holkham Hall
Holkham Road
261 locals recommend
The house and its parks are a great place for a day out too. The house has it's guided tours and the facilities there have been much upgraded over the last year or so - cafe/bar, gift shop etc. There are some nice walks around the grounds, boat trips on the lake and we also love The Victoria pub on the main road at the entrance to the grounds.
Thetford Forest is the largest lowland pine first in Britain and covers some 47,000 acres. Popular for its walking and cycling trails, head for High Lodge Visitors Centre which also has a cafe, cycle hire, adventure play areas, is a starting point for walking trails, has outdoor concerts, theatre and entertainment. It is also the home to the Go Ape high wire adventure course.
79 locals recommend
Thetford Forest Park
79 locals recommend
Thetford Forest is the largest lowland pine first in Britain and covers some 47,000 acres. Popular for its walking and cycling trails, head for High Lodge Visitors Centre which also has a cafe, cycle hire, adventure play areas, is a starting point for walking trails, has outdoor concerts, theatre and entertainment. It is also the home to the Go Ape high wire adventure course.
The Sandringham Estate is always a 'go to' place in Norfolk, not just because you can visit one of the Queens official private residences, but because the 600 acres of park are such a nice place for woodland walks (including the Sculpture Trail). Centred around a visitors centre with restaurant and gift shop, a children's play area, there's lots of space for picnics too. You can also of course take a tour of the house, museum and the 56 acres of private gardens.
210 locals recommend
Sandringham Estate
210 locals recommend
The Sandringham Estate is always a 'go to' place in Norfolk, not just because you can visit one of the Queens official private residences, but because the 600 acres of park are such a nice place for woodland walks (including the Sculpture Trail). Centred around a visitors centre with restaurant and gift shop, a children's play area, there's lots of space for picnics too. You can also of course take a tour of the house, museum and the 56 acres of private gardens.
The beach at Scolt Head was listed as the 5th best beach in the UK last year by Rough Guides. It’s difficult to reach as it's an offshore island between Brancaster and Wells-next-the-Sea, but that’s part of the charm. A seasonal ferry heads over from Burnham Overy Staithe (the best way of accessing the island) during fine weather, and once you’re there, plop down on the sandy dunes for a picnic, grab your binoculars for some intensive birdwatching (the island is a protected conservation area) and comb the beach for some intriguing seashells.
6 locals recommend
Scolt Head Island National Nature Reserve
6 locals recommend
The beach at Scolt Head was listed as the 5th best beach in the UK last year by Rough Guides. It’s difficult to reach as it's an offshore island between Brancaster and Wells-next-the-Sea, but that’s part of the charm. A seasonal ferry heads over from Burnham Overy Staithe (the best way of accessing the island) during fine weather, and once you’re there, plop down on the sandy dunes for a picnic, grab your binoculars for some intensive birdwatching (the island is a protected conservation area) and comb the beach for some intriguing seashells.
Just off the A148 on the road to Holt, Sheringham Park is a favourite. There are four marked walks (of varying length and difficulty) around its thousand acres, which is largely woodland. Known for its fabulous Rhododendrons it's a nice place to walk whatever time of year, it has great coastal views - especially from the treetop viewing platform and you can get down to the cliff top path too. Its a good place to walk the dog or to cycle. There's an information centre/museum and courtyard cafe, but there's plenty of space for picnics near the car park.
104 locals recommend
Sheringham Park
104 locals recommend
Just off the A148 on the road to Holt, Sheringham Park is a favourite. There are four marked walks (of varying length and difficulty) around its thousand acres, which is largely woodland. Known for its fabulous Rhododendrons it's a nice place to walk whatever time of year, it has great coastal views - especially from the treetop viewing platform and you can get down to the cliff top path too. Its a good place to walk the dog or to cycle. There's an information centre/museum and courtyard cafe, but there's plenty of space for picnics near the car park.
This is a great place to visit for coastal walks and certainly for the ornithologists amongst you. The team here have a wealth of knowledge about the hundreds of species that inhabit the shoreline and the constant arrivals and departures of birds to the county. Yes there's a gift shop and cafe too (including outdoor facilities for the less inclement days). The latter has an amazing live airport style arrival and departure board of species. Use as a starting point for walks through the marshes to the gravel shoreline and also to visit the 'hides' to get up close to marvel at the variety of birds.
33 locals recommend
Cley Marshes Visitor Centre
Coast Road
33 locals recommend
This is a great place to visit for coastal walks and certainly for the ornithologists amongst you. The team here have a wealth of knowledge about the hundreds of species that inhabit the shoreline and the constant arrivals and departures of birds to the county. Yes there's a gift shop and cafe too (including outdoor facilities for the less inclement days). The latter has an amazing live airport style arrival and departure board of species. Use as a starting point for walks through the marshes to the gravel shoreline and also to visit the 'hides' to get up close to marvel at the variety of birds.
Lovely grounds and walled gardens. Permanent and guest artist exhibitions.
105 locals recommend
Houghton Hall & Gardens
Bircham Road
105 locals recommend
Lovely grounds and walled gardens. Permanent and guest artist exhibitions.
A bit off the beaten track but well worth a winter trip to see the spectacle of thousands of over-wintering swans. Not just for the lovers of wildlife, ornithologists and conservationists... it's a really mentally relaxing place to be, educational too. Set aside a few hours.
18 locals recommend
Welney wet center
18 locals recommend
A bit off the beaten track but well worth a winter trip to see the spectacle of thousands of over-wintering swans. Not just for the lovers of wildlife, ornithologists and conservationists... it's a really mentally relaxing place to be, educational too. Set aside a few hours.
Wolferton village is part of the Queen's Sandringham Estate and is famous particularly for its Royal railway station, worth a visit just to see this. However, our favourite bit is the walk from the small car park at the top of the hill around the beautiful peat marshes that are both a real surprise and a real find. It's an area of special scientific interest and of outstanding natural beauty. The walks through the woods and marshes with well made paths and tracks, together with the dedicated viewing points (one with a seat dedicated to the late singer John Denver on the tp of the cliff) are a real joy. It's just across the the road from the main part of the Sandringham Estate, so you can visit the two together for a lovely day out.
Wolferton
Wolferton village is part of the Queen's Sandringham Estate and is famous particularly for its Royal railway station, worth a visit just to see this. However, our favourite bit is the walk from the small car park at the top of the hill around the beautiful peat marshes that are both a real surprise and a real find. It's an area of special scientific interest and of outstanding natural beauty. The walks through the woods and marshes with well made paths and tracks, together with the dedicated viewing points (one with a seat dedicated to the late singer John Denver on the tp of the cliff) are a real joy. It's just across the the road from the main part of the Sandringham Estate, so you can visit the two together for a lovely day out.
Compared to the other NationaL Trust houses across Norfolk, Felbrigg is one of the smaller ones, but probably offers more. You'll see more of the house ad the walled gardens and country walks are lovely yet manageable for a day out.
170 locals recommend
Felbrigg Hall
170 locals recommend
Compared to the other NationaL Trust houses across Norfolk, Felbrigg is one of the smaller ones, but probably offers more. You'll see more of the house ad the walled gardens and country walks are lovely yet manageable for a day out.

Gardens & Plant Centres

If you like gardening and horticulture you'll love Romantic Garden… they are one of those fabulous word of mouth places that are a real joy. Based in the village of Swannington, they are not a traditional garden centre, but a source of mature trees and shrubs that you can only call garden transforming, as they are significantly larger specimens to what you can find elsewhere. They have exhibited at many national flower shows including the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show and The Chelsea Flower Show, and have been awarded ten RHS Gold Medals. They also supply plants to landscapers & garden designers for their own gardens at shows.
The Romantic Garden Nursery
The Street
If you like gardening and horticulture you'll love Romantic Garden… they are one of those fabulous word of mouth places that are a real joy. Based in the village of Swannington, they are not a traditional garden centre, but a source of mature trees and shrubs that you can only call garden transforming, as they are significantly larger specimens to what you can find elsewhere. They have exhibited at many national flower shows including the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show and The Chelsea Flower Show, and have been awarded ten RHS Gold Medals. They also supply plants to landscapers & garden designers for their own gardens at shows.
Another of our very favourite garden centres... we love the ones that are a bit different from the run of the mill garden centres. This specialises in more tropical species of plants and particularly in the larger specimens. Visit for a browse to wonder at what will actually happily grow in the UK... but they hold lots of unusual smaller plants and cactii, both indoor and outdoor. You can grab coffee and cake whilst your there too.
12 locals recommend
Urban Jungle Plant Nursery and Café
London Road
12 locals recommend
Another of our very favourite garden centres... we love the ones that are a bit different from the run of the mill garden centres. This specialises in more tropical species of plants and particularly in the larger specimens. Visit for a browse to wonder at what will actually happily grow in the UK... but they hold lots of unusual smaller plants and cactii, both indoor and outdoor. You can grab coffee and cake whilst your there too.
This is one of the best country gardens that we have ever visited... the RHS obviously think that it is special too, as it is one of only six 'Partnership Gardens' in the UK. Its opening times are limited, access is from 12.00 noon and usually has queues whatever the day of the week. Get there for when it opens as there is so much to see, it could take you a few visits. One tip would be to call at the cafe as soon as you get there if you are peckish and looking for some lunch - they only serve their lunches between 12.00 and 2.00pm. After that its tea/coffee and cake. On our first visit we had wondered why people were queuing as soon as they got in - we found out later, although the tea and cakes were fab. The gardens and house and building are fabulous. They also have plant sales.
53 locals recommend
East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden
Vicarage Road
53 locals recommend
This is one of the best country gardens that we have ever visited... the RHS obviously think that it is special too, as it is one of only six 'Partnership Gardens' in the UK. Its opening times are limited, access is from 12.00 noon and usually has queues whatever the day of the week. Get there for when it opens as there is so much to see, it could take you a few visits. One tip would be to call at the cafe as soon as you get there if you are peckish and looking for some lunch - they only serve their lunches between 12.00 and 2.00pm. After that its tea/coffee and cake. On our first visit we had wondered why people were queuing as soon as they got in - we found out later, although the tea and cakes were fab. The gardens and house and building are fabulous. They also have plant sales.
This is our closest favourite of our favourite Norfolk specialist nurseries... about 20 mins drive away. A pleasant wander around the gardens, can't resist buying unusual finds from the nursery and tea and cake at the cafe (Open from mid April until the end of September) - the blueberry scones with plum jam and clotted cream as a special treat!. The team at the nursery are also very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.
West Acre Garden
Tumbleyhill Road
This is our closest favourite of our favourite Norfolk specialist nurseries... about 20 mins drive away. A pleasant wander around the gardens, can't resist buying unusual finds from the nursery and tea and cake at the cafe (Open from mid April until the end of September) - the blueberry scones with plum jam and clotted cream as a special treat!. The team at the nursery are also very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.
A lovely small park in the centre of Norwich with an interesting history. Close to the Catholic Cathedral in the centre of the city, it is somewhat hidden... its only about 100 metres down the hill from the Cathedral (on Earlham Road). Tranquil, dramatic and hilly in parts is how we sum it up. They even hold outdoor cinema shows here during the summer.
31 locals recommend
The Plantation Garden
4 Earlham Rd
31 locals recommend
A lovely small park in the centre of Norwich with an interesting history. Close to the Catholic Cathedral in the centre of the city, it is somewhat hidden... its only about 100 metres down the hill from the Cathedral (on Earlham Road). Tranquil, dramatic and hilly in parts is how we sum it up. They even hold outdoor cinema shows here during the summer.

Shopping

Country and Eastern is an amazing place… it really fits the art, culture and shopping bill - it's a must see place if you visit Norwich. Created from Norwich's old ice rink, step inside to discover a huge vaulted building that is full of affordable antiquities from around the world (we have some here at Waterside) - unique tables, chairs, lamps, rugs, art, doors. They are world renowned, having supplied lots of items for movie sets such as the Indianna Jones films. The owners, Phillip and Jean are lovely people and very knowledgeable and helpful.
Country & Eastern
34-36 Bethel St
Country and Eastern is an amazing place… it really fits the art, culture and shopping bill - it's a must see place if you visit Norwich. Created from Norwich's old ice rink, step inside to discover a huge vaulted building that is full of affordable antiquities from around the world (we have some here at Waterside) - unique tables, chairs, lamps, rugs, art, doors. They are world renowned, having supplied lots of items for movie sets such as the Indianna Jones films. The owners, Phillip and Jean are lovely people and very knowledgeable and helpful.
The Norwich Lanes won The Great British High Street award in 2014 and it is here that you'll find individual, independent and quirky retailers and businesses offering an exciting lifestyle, fashion and art against a backdrop of narrow alleys and beautiful historic buildings. The Norwich Lanes is all about independence and variety so you will discover exquisite galleries, vintage shops, quaint coffee houses, trendy cafés & bars, contemporary restaurants, eclectic entertainment venues as well as atmospheric pubs serving real ale. It's a really nice environment to mosey and browse at your leisure.
114 locals recommend
Norwich Market
1 Market Pl
114 locals recommend
The Norwich Lanes won The Great British High Street award in 2014 and it is here that you'll find individual, independent and quirky retailers and businesses offering an exciting lifestyle, fashion and art against a backdrop of narrow alleys and beautiful historic buildings. The Norwich Lanes is all about independence and variety so you will discover exquisite galleries, vintage shops, quaint coffee houses, trendy cafés & bars, contemporary restaurants, eclectic entertainment venues as well as atmospheric pubs serving real ale. It's a really nice environment to mosey and browse at your leisure.
If you're in Norwich you must call in to Macarons and More to sample the Award-Winning French Macarons and Patisseries by Masterchef's Dr.Tim Kinnaird. Either as a treat for yourselves or as a gift for someone else they are fantastic… trust us, they are absolutely delicious!
Macarons & More
11 The Royal Arcade
If you're in Norwich you must call in to Macarons and More to sample the Award-Winning French Macarons and Patisseries by Masterchef's Dr.Tim Kinnaird. Either as a treat for yourselves or as a gift for someone else they are fantastic… trust us, they are absolutely delicious!
Our favourite Norwich department store. Independent and 'ahead of the game' compared to the major chains. Almost like a mini Selfridges, it has plenty of departments to shop in, but also has several places to eat, including a wine bar & deli, seafood bar, pizza place, coffee shop and top floor cafe. It also hosts many events through the year, from fashion shows to book launches.
29 locals recommend
Jarrold
11 London St
29 locals recommend
Our favourite Norwich department store. Independent and 'ahead of the game' compared to the major chains. Almost like a mini Selfridges, it has plenty of departments to shop in, but also has several places to eat, including a wine bar & deli, seafood bar, pizza place, coffee shop and top floor cafe. It also hosts many events through the year, from fashion shows to book launches.
The Goat Shed is a farm shop, deli and cafe selling quality locally sourced food... yes, it does have goats. It's nice to pop in for a spot of lunch or just tea and cake, but is a great place to pick up some holiday treats.
The Goat Shed Farm Shop & Kitchen
The Goat Shed is a farm shop, deli and cafe selling quality locally sourced food... yes, it does have goats. It's nice to pop in for a spot of lunch or just tea and cake, but is a great place to pick up some holiday treats.

Places to Visit

The spire of Norwich Cathedral is an iconic landmark across the City's skyline… an impressive building, its cloisters the second largest in the country and Cathedral Close, a picturesque enclave of houses owned by the Church is a lovely place to walk through, for us, usually tied in with a riverside walk. The Cathedral also hosts a variety of events, in July this year they are some Shakespeare performances.
217 locals recommend
Norwich Cathedral
65 The Close
217 locals recommend
The spire of Norwich Cathedral is an iconic landmark across the City's skyline… an impressive building, its cloisters the second largest in the country and Cathedral Close, a picturesque enclave of houses owned by the Church is a lovely place to walk through, for us, usually tied in with a riverside walk. The Cathedral also hosts a variety of events, in July this year they are some Shakespeare performances.
Castle Acre is just a 15-20 minute drive from Waterside and we usually park in the centre of this pretty little village and then have a leisurely walk around the nearby meadows, taking in the ruins of the castle and The Priory en-route, occasionally stopping off for Sunday lunch at The Ostrich Inn. It also has a great fish and chip shop too.
26 locals recommend
Castle Acre
26 locals recommend
Castle Acre is just a 15-20 minute drive from Waterside and we usually park in the centre of this pretty little village and then have a leisurely walk around the nearby meadows, taking in the ruins of the castle and The Priory en-route, occasionally stopping off for Sunday lunch at The Ostrich Inn. It also has a great fish and chip shop too.
The stunning moated house that is Oxburgh Hall is a National Trust Treasure. You can walk the gardens and grounds, take a tour around the house, but we also love the area for our own walks (we have a few local routes on map) which usually finish at the Bedingfeld Arms for a drink and Sunday lunch.
57 locals recommend
Oxburgh Hall
57 locals recommend
The stunning moated house that is Oxburgh Hall is a National Trust Treasure. You can walk the gardens and grounds, take a tour around the house, but we also love the area for our own walks (we have a few local routes on map) which usually finish at the Bedingfeld Arms for a drink and Sunday lunch.
Burnham Market… otherwise known as "Chelsea on Sea' is a great place near to the coast to stop off to browse through the variety of small shops around the green. The Hoste one of our favourite places for a quick drink or spot of lunch.
35 locals recommend
The Hoste
The Green
35 locals recommend
Burnham Market… otherwise known as "Chelsea on Sea' is a great place near to the coast to stop off to browse through the variety of small shops around the green. The Hoste one of our favourite places for a quick drink or spot of lunch.
The 'Poppy Line' as it is known, was described by the Daily Telegraph as one of the UK's great five heritage railways. It offers a spectacularly scenic ride from Sheringham along the coast to Weybourne and through the heathland to Holt. It has won tourist awards and has been Independent Railway of the Year. The steam trains run from April 1st-End of October and visit three Victorian stations which includes a railway museum at Holt. A bit of fun, a way to explore a bit of the coastline, something just a bit different to do.
69 locals recommend
North Norfolk Railway PLC (Sheringham)
Station Approach
69 locals recommend
The 'Poppy Line' as it is known, was described by the Daily Telegraph as one of the UK's great five heritage railways. It offers a spectacularly scenic ride from Sheringham along the coast to Weybourne and through the heathland to Holt. It has won tourist awards and has been Independent Railway of the Year. The steam trains run from April 1st-End of October and visit three Victorian stations which includes a railway museum at Holt. A bit of fun, a way to explore a bit of the coastline, something just a bit different to do.

Food Scene

The running of The Refectory cafe has recently been taken over by our favourite artisan bakery 'Bread Source', making it especially nice for us and a regular stopping off point on our visits to the city… but it's the beautiful contemporary architecture, which compliments the limestone structures of the Cathedral and many of the buildings around The Close that adds a sense of awe. It also feels such a calm and restful place, a welcome contrast to the bustle of the city.
The Refectory at Norwich Cathedral
65 The Cl
The running of The Refectory cafe has recently been taken over by our favourite artisan bakery 'Bread Source', making it especially nice for us and a regular stopping off point on our visits to the city… but it's the beautiful contemporary architecture, which compliments the limestone structures of the Cathedral and many of the buildings around The Close that adds a sense of awe. It also feels such a calm and restful place, a welcome contrast to the bustle of the city.
Thornham Deli is one of our new favourite 'watering holes' on the North Norfolk coast road… a lovely place to stop for a coffee or lunch, to pick up supplies for a picnic or if we're planning some al fresco dining… it even has a lifestyle store attached, so you can pick up things for the home, perhaps the odd holiday gift.
56 locals recommend
Thornham Deli
56 locals recommend
Thornham Deli is one of our new favourite 'watering holes' on the North Norfolk coast road… a lovely place to stop for a coffee or lunch, to pick up supplies for a picnic or if we're planning some al fresco dining… it even has a lifestyle store attached, so you can pick up things for the home, perhaps the odd holiday gift.
We love the setting of this place… basically it is a pub and restaurant right on the river and on a balmy day it's fantastic to sit on one of the twin chairs on the broad expanse of waterside decking, while away an hour or so sipping a Pimms or two, watching the boats go by on the river. It's just like being on holiday!
11 locals recommend
Waters Edge Woodsend
Woods End
11 locals recommend
We love the setting of this place… basically it is a pub and restaurant right on the river and on a balmy day it's fantastic to sit on one of the twin chairs on the broad expanse of waterside decking, while away an hour or so sipping a Pimms or two, watching the boats go by on the river. It's just like being on holiday!
The White Horse is a favourite stopping off point whilst exploring the North Norfolk coastline along the A149 coast road. It has panoramic views over the tidal marshes, a great place to take in the big blue skies, spectacular sunsets and salty sea air after a walk on Brancaster beach, with good food and drink, sometimes a bit of tapas.
70 locals recommend
The White Horse Brancaster Staithe
Main Road
70 locals recommend
The White Horse is a favourite stopping off point whilst exploring the North Norfolk coastline along the A149 coast road. It has panoramic views over the tidal marshes, a great place to take in the big blue skies, spectacular sunsets and salty sea air after a walk on Brancaster beach, with good food and drink, sometimes a bit of tapas.
In a setting that feels almost Mediterranean (shady pine trees and sandy soil underfoot), this quirky cafe is a great spot for al fresco breakfast, lunch or tea, with views across the salt marshes to the sea. Dishes include tapas of Wiveton asparagus, crab, chilli and parmesan salad, and salt cod cakes with aioli. There are woodfired pizzas available on weekday evenings in high summer.
69 locals recommend
Wiveton Hall Café
69 locals recommend
In a setting that feels almost Mediterranean (shady pine trees and sandy soil underfoot), this quirky cafe is a great spot for al fresco breakfast, lunch or tea, with views across the salt marshes to the sea. Dishes include tapas of Wiveton asparagus, crab, chilli and parmesan salad, and salt cod cakes with aioli. There are woodfired pizzas available on weekday evenings in high summer.
Housed in a big old converted barn on the main A148 between Fakenham and Holt, this cafe and restaurant with shop, deli and butchers under the same roof is place we always call into when nearby. Nice to pop in for tea and scones or a light lunch, we used to bump into the late John Hurt here, it was a favourite place of his, particularly living locally… he was always happy to chat about football and Norwich City.
25 locals recommend
Back to the Garden - Farm Shop, café, Restaurant & Garden
25 locals recommend
Housed in a big old converted barn on the main A148 between Fakenham and Holt, this cafe and restaurant with shop, deli and butchers under the same roof is place we always call into when nearby. Nice to pop in for tea and scones or a light lunch, we used to bump into the late John Hurt here, it was a favourite place of his, particularly living locally… he was always happy to chat about football and Norwich City.
Another favourite… for an a la carte meal, Sunday lunch or just a pint on a sunny day on the edge of the village green. Great Massingham is about half an hour away.
50 locals recommend
Dabbling Duck Great Massingham
11 Abbey Rd
50 locals recommend
Another favourite… for an a la carte meal, Sunday lunch or just a pint on a sunny day on the edge of the village green. Great Massingham is about half an hour away.
Run by an American in Norwich, Duane Dibarlotomeo from Miami via New York, was voted national Tourism Superstar 2017 by Visit England and his Grosvenor Fish Bar in Norwich serve simply the best fish and chips you can get anywhere… enough said!
32 locals recommend
Grosvenor Fish Bar
28 Lower Goat Ln
32 locals recommend
Run by an American in Norwich, Duane Dibarlotomeo from Miami via New York, was voted national Tourism Superstar 2017 by Visit England and his Grosvenor Fish Bar in Norwich serve simply the best fish and chips you can get anywhere… enough said!
A really nice traditional English pub with great food including their Sunday lunch. We love the environment. Award Winning - Michelin Bib Gourmand Prize
19 locals recommend
Walpole Arms Itteringham
The Common
19 locals recommend
A really nice traditional English pub with great food including their Sunday lunch. We love the environment. Award Winning - Michelin Bib Gourmand Prize
The Brisley Bell is a fab traditional English country pub and then some… recently refurbished to a very high standard, it doesn't lack the character you would expect, but beautifully updated with a contemporary touch that oozes style. Great food too!
48 locals recommend
The Brisley Bell Inn
The Green
48 locals recommend
The Brisley Bell is a fab traditional English country pub and then some… recently refurbished to a very high standard, it doesn't lack the character you would expect, but beautifully updated with a contemporary touch that oozes style. Great food too!
Fabulous fish and chips at Erics Cafe and restaurant on the A149 coast road across North Norfolk at Thornham.
59 locals recommend
Erics
Thornham Road
59 locals recommend
Fabulous fish and chips at Erics Cafe and restaurant on the A149 coast road across North Norfolk at Thornham.
Our very favourite pub for Sunday lunch and just around a 20 minute drive away. With friends, family or just the two of us, we love a walk in the nearby fields and lanes (or in the grounds of Oxburgh Hall across the road) to work up an appetite.
15 locals recommend
Bedingfeld Arms
15 locals recommend
Our very favourite pub for Sunday lunch and just around a 20 minute drive away. With friends, family or just the two of us, we love a walk in the nearby fields and lanes (or in the grounds of Oxburgh Hall across the road) to work up an appetite.
A farmhouse micro-brewery about 20 minutes away from us that we think is special... a variety of great craft beers, lagers, dark beers, and classic wheat ales to barrel-aged farmhouse ales. Taste and buy of course, but they also hold regular events including their Tap Nights where they serve street food too.
Duration Brewing
River Road
A farmhouse micro-brewery about 20 minutes away from us that we think is special... a variety of great craft beers, lagers, dark beers, and classic wheat ales to barrel-aged farmhouse ales. Taste and buy of course, but they also hold regular events including their Tap Nights where they serve street food too.
Innovative food in offbeat location, great value. Good vegetarian options. Named Best Local Restaurant Central and East by the Good Food Guide.
17 locals recommend
Woolf & Social
21-23 Nelson St
17 locals recommend
Innovative food in offbeat location, great value. Good vegetarian options. Named Best Local Restaurant Central and East by the Good Food Guide.
A Michelin Guide Italian Restaurant at the bottom of Timber Hill in the centre of Norwich.
7 locals recommend
Benoli
5 Orford St
7 locals recommend
A Michelin Guide Italian Restaurant at the bottom of Timber Hill in the centre of Norwich.
Fine dining at its best from renowned TV chef Roger Hickman!
19 locals recommend
Roger Hickman's Restaurant
79 Upper St Giles St
19 locals recommend
Fine dining at its best from renowned TV chef Roger Hickman!
Voted as the Best Coastal fish and chip shop in the East of England by the Times in their list of 18 across the UK. Not surprisingly there's usually a queue whatever time of year you visit. You'll find it just across the road from the harbour.
28 locals recommend
French's Fish Shop Ltd
10 The Quay
28 locals recommend
Voted as the Best Coastal fish and chip shop in the East of England by the Times in their list of 18 across the UK. Not surprisingly there's usually a queue whatever time of year you visit. You'll find it just across the road from the harbour.

Arts & Culture

There is something magical about the Norman Foster designed building which is set within The University Campus. It has a really calming aura, a nice place to be and at the same time always something interesting to see. They have a large permanent collection of paintings and sculptures, but also host some great guest exhibitions - at the moment it is featuring the work of Paul Nash, one of the most important historical figures in modern art.
69 locals recommend
Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts
Norfolk Road
69 locals recommend
There is something magical about the Norman Foster designed building which is set within The University Campus. It has a really calming aura, a nice place to be and at the same time always something interesting to see. They have a large permanent collection of paintings and sculptures, but also host some great guest exhibitions - at the moment it is featuring the work of Paul Nash, one of the most important historical figures in modern art.

Entertainment & Activities

The joy of Thetford Forest and it's walks and cycle trails and so so much more...
One for the kids to get that 'Jurassic Park' experience.
96 locals recommend
Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure
96 locals recommend
One for the kids to get that 'Jurassic Park' experience.
Cromer was recently called an "idyllic seaside town" by The Telegraph and with it's traditional and iconic pier and Pavillion Theatre it still has the essence of a traditional Victorian seaside resort. It sits on a cliff-top overlooking sandy and shale blue flag beaches and takes pride in being one of those rare places where you can detox from the high street chains… there isn't a national chain coffee shop, eating or drinking place there!
144 locals recommend
Cromer Beach
144 locals recommend
Cromer was recently called an "idyllic seaside town" by The Telegraph and with it's traditional and iconic pier and Pavillion Theatre it still has the essence of a traditional Victorian seaside resort. It sits on a cliff-top overlooking sandy and shale blue flag beaches and takes pride in being one of those rare places where you can detox from the high street chains… there isn't a national chain coffee shop, eating or drinking place there!
The only place we go to watch a movie in Norfolk - part of the Picture House independent chain of cinemas, usually housed in unique buildings. This must be one of the best, a Grade I Listed Building of real character. It's small (compared to the multiplexes) but it's a gem. There is a good bar that serves food too and a restaurant - Dining Rooms with an a la carte menu. With vaulted rooms it also has a covered courtyard and small terrace.
59 locals recommend
Cinema City
Saint Andrews Street
59 locals recommend
The only place we go to watch a movie in Norfolk - part of the Picture House independent chain of cinemas, usually housed in unique buildings. This must be one of the best, a Grade I Listed Building of real character. It's small (compared to the multiplexes) but it's a gem. There is a good bar that serves food too and a restaurant - Dining Rooms with an a la carte menu. With vaulted rooms it also has a covered courtyard and small terrace.
A good place to take the kids on a rainy day. The castle has evolved over its 900 years from Royal Palace to prison and the exhibits, including virtual and interactive ones reflect that history. You get a great view of the city from the top of the castle.
204 locals recommend
Norwich Castle
24 Castle Mdw
204 locals recommend
A good place to take the kids on a rainy day. The castle has evolved over its 900 years from Royal Palace to prison and the exhibits, including virtual and interactive ones reflect that history. You get a great view of the city from the top of the castle.
An award-winning zoo set in 50 acres with 2,000animals from around the world. It features snow leopards, tigers, giraffes, a big collection of monkeys and the bird garden has flamingos, penguins, kookaburras, and lots lots more.
94 locals recommend
Banham Zoo
Kenninghall Road
94 locals recommend
An award-winning zoo set in 50 acres with 2,000animals from around the world. It features snow leopards, tigers, giraffes, a big collection of monkeys and the bird garden has flamingos, penguins, kookaburras, and lots lots more.
For a high energy activity and those that love an adrenaline rush, you won't have to travel far to "Extreeme' to find it. A woodland adventure on high ropes, zip wires, 3G swings, tree climbing and even including an Army style assault course, you can unleash the Tarzan or Jane in you.
7 locals recommend
ExTREEme Adventure
7 locals recommend
For a high energy activity and those that love an adrenaline rush, you won't have to travel far to "Extreeme' to find it. A woodland adventure on high ropes, zip wires, 3G swings, tree climbing and even including an Army style assault course, you can unleash the Tarzan or Jane in you.
Ten Pin Bowling is always great fun for all of the family… especially on inclement days. This is just 10-15 minutes away.
Strikes Bowl
Station Road
Ten Pin Bowling is always great fun for all of the family… especially on inclement days. This is just 10-15 minutes away.
Anglia Karting is the nearest place for Go Karting, very handy just being about 10 minutes away. WildTracks Activity Park, which is just off the A11 near Newmarket is larger and with more activities - Karting, Motorcross, Quad Biking and Battlefield games. Kids Karts near Wymondham is especially for 4 - 10 year olds.
7 locals recommend
Anglia Karting Centre
7 locals recommend
Anglia Karting is the nearest place for Go Karting, very handy just being about 10 minutes away. WildTracks Activity Park, which is just off the A11 near Newmarket is larger and with more activities - Karting, Motorcross, Quad Biking and Battlefield games. Kids Karts near Wymondham is especially for 4 - 10 year olds.
Great for the family and has cafe too.
39 locals recommend
SEA LIFE Hunstanton
Seagate Road
39 locals recommend
Great for the family and has cafe too.
Thursford's Christmas Spectacular is reputed to be the largest Christmas Show in the country and runs form 8th November to 23rd December centred around matinee and evening performances… a 3 hour Christmas Variety Show. This is about as 'Christmassy' as it gets and incorporates a Magical Visit to see Santa… William and Kate took little George and Charlotte last year.
20 locals recommend
Thursford
The Street
20 locals recommend
Thursford's Christmas Spectacular is reputed to be the largest Christmas Show in the country and runs form 8th November to 23rd December centred around matinee and evening performances… a 3 hour Christmas Variety Show. This is about as 'Christmassy' as it gets and incorporates a Magical Visit to see Santa… William and Kate took little George and Charlotte last year.
The joy of Thetford Forest and it's walks and cycle trails, but so much more too...
37 locals recommend
High Lodge
37 locals recommend
The joy of Thetford Forest and it's walks and cycle trails, but so much more too...
A great place for a family day out. This imaginatively themed outdoor adventure park in the heart of the Broads features treehouses, wobbly wires, slippery slopes, storytelling, boat rides and marsh walks.
BeWILDerwood Norfolk
A great place for a family day out. This imaginatively themed outdoor adventure park in the heart of the Broads features treehouses, wobbly wires, slippery slopes, storytelling, boat rides and marsh walks.
If archery sends you all of a quiver for that "hunger Games' or "Game of Thrones' experience, there are two places locally that offer different archery experiences. Grey Goose near Downham Market for lessons and all sorts of celebratory parties (they even have a Zombie Experience) and then Combat Archery, at Swaffham, who have an arena with inflatable bunkers and barricades for a game of elimination, which combines elements of dodgeball and archery.
Grey Goose Archery and Axes
If archery sends you all of a quiver for that "hunger Games' or "Game of Thrones' experience, there are two places locally that offer different archery experiences. Grey Goose near Downham Market for lessons and all sorts of celebratory parties (they even have a Zombie Experience) and then Combat Archery, at Swaffham, who have an arena with inflatable bunkers and barricades for a game of elimination, which combines elements of dodgeball and archery.