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Local Places to Visit

From Coast to Countryside – Explore What's Nearby

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Useful Addresses and Numbers

Taxi Service

Kings Abbey             01553 767692    
Kings Lynn Taxis             01553 763636  
Renaldas Taxi                   07742221620
Station Taxis                  01553 777788

Local amenities

  • Hardwick Retail Park (4 miles) PE30 4WP
  • Supermarket’s (Tesco’s Extra and Sainsburys)
  • Boots Chemist         
  • Petrol Stations
  • Assortment of Shops
  • Cafes and Restaurants 
     

King’s Lynn – PE30 5AA (5.2 miles)

A 15-minute drive will lead you to the town of King’s Lynn, a local market/port town that has over 800 years of history.  Here you can, not only shop and eat at some lovely restaurants and cafes, but also discover the many beautiful buildings of interest such as St George’s Guildhall, True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum and the grade I listed Hanse House to name but a few.

Here are some extra things to look out for while in the town;

  • The Walks – The Walks is a luscious 17-hectare park and the only surviving 18th Century walk in Norfolk. It is a Grade II listed landscape and home to historic buildings such as the late 15th Century Red Mount Chapel which you can visit free of charge, though check online for opening times, and The Guannock Gate, rebuilt in 1816.  But most importantly, if you do visit The Walks, make sure you take some food to feed the ducks!
  • The Majestic Cinema – The Majestic Cinema building dates back to 1928. It is a beautiful grade II listed building with 4 screens and definitely worth a visit if you’d like to see the latest film showings.
  • King’s Lynn Sports - On the sporting front, Kings Lynn has its own football ground with the team being King’s Lynn Town FC, affectionately known as the Linnets.  There is also a Speedway arena, home to the King’s Lynn Stars.
  • King's Lynn Corn Exchange - A large theatre and cinema is a popular entertainment venue featuring everything from opera to pantomime.
  • Middleton Hall Golf Course – PE32 1RY (1.7 miles) Situated amongst beautiful countryside in the heart of Norfolk, Middleton Hall Golf Club offers a unique, attractive and varied environment for the game of golf. The course – enjoyed by beginners and professional players alike – they have a floodlit driving range with covered bays and an array of putting greens and practice areas.
  • Congham Hall Hotel & Spa (PE32 1AH)If you fancy a little luxury on your break why not take a look at Congham Hall.  They offer a wide range of Spa Treatments which include the following: A stunning 12 metre swimming pool with floor to ceiling windows, a thermal suite which includes, a Sauna, Steam Room and Bio-sauna, an outside hot tub, experience showers, foot baths and more. Treatments are to be booked online before your visit to avoid disappointment.
  • Knights Hill Hotel and Spa (PE30 3HQ)With five beautifully appointed treatment rooms, a Thermal Suite, Serial Mud Bath, Mineral Grotto and Relaxation Room, the Imagine Spa at Knights Hill boasts some of the best facilities in the area.  Whether guests want to indulge in a manicure, take advantage of the ice bath, or simply relax with a massage, the perfect treatment is available at the Imagine Spa. Designed with total relaxation in mind, guests are encouraged to work with the friendly spa consultants on arrival, and tailor make the perfect spa experience to suit their personal requirements.

The Stories of Lynn – PE30 5DQ (5.3 miles)

To learn more about the history of Kings Lynn we recommend a visit to The Stories of Lynn based in the town centre. Here you will, not only find 800 years’ worth of history in a beautiful museum, but also the original Gaol House.  The museum has many interactive sections, with things to see and do for all ages. From seeing Lynn’s most celebrated characters come to life on the wall to dressing up in mayoral robes, and even discovering the old Gaol House which was where, for over 400 years, Lynn’s most notorious citizens were imprisoned, it is certainly the place to go if you like history.

Watatunga Wildlife Reserve (Seasonal Opening) – PE33 0RG (4 miles)

A 10-minute drive from Hay’s Wood Retreat, will lead you to the incredible Watatunga, a stunning new wildlife reserve in West Norfolk.  Situated amongst 170 acres of woodland, grassland, and lakes, Watatunga provides a unique environment for over twenty different types of ungulate and rare bird species to roam at their will, so it is well worth a visit. 

On their website you can pre-book a 1.5 hour guided safari tour on a 4-seater electric golf buggy (with a 6-seater and wheel-chair accessible option available). The buggies are equipped with speakers giving you the opportunity to learn all about the incredible wildlife and their approach to conservation in real time, as you see it.

  • Please note that all Buggy operators must hold a valid driver’s license and pre-booking is essential.

Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre - PE34 3HT (7 miles)

Church Farm is a rare breeds centre and farm situated in Stow Bardolph.  So much more than a farm, it offers lots to see and do for people of all ages but is especially a perfect destination for families with children.  The farm is unique in that it lets you get hands on with the animals.  There are dividing barriers to allow you to climb into a petting area of the pens and get hands on with the animals that like that 1 to 1 attention.  In the day the farm offers many different animal encounters for you to get up close and learn more about the farm animals in their care. They also have two petting zoo areas where you can wander with the sheep, goats, chickens and rabbits. 

Here are some other things you can do whilst you’re here –

  • Tractor Rides (Seasonal) – A tractor ride takes you for a ride around the farm and teaches you about the different breeds of sheep they have on site.  If you’re lucky you might also get to stop and feed their pigs!
  • Adventure Playground – Church Farm has an incredible outdoors space for kids and fun adults of all ages to enjoy.  Here you’ll discover - ride on pedal tractors, sunken trampolines, a hay barn to climb, giant sand pit, things to swing, spin and climb on and more!
  • Treehouse Indoor Playground – Inside you’ll find a café, gift shop and indoor playground.  The Playground is split into an under 5s and over 5s area and also includes a reading and role play zone for the kids to explore.
  • Nature Walks – In the grounds of Church Farm you can explore many walking and hiking trails, as well as explore their woodland area.  They also offer the opportunity to book a guided tour with their gamekeeper where you’ll learn all about nature, church farm and the Stow Estate.
  • Stow Hall Gardens (PE34 3HU) – Separate from Church Farm (with their own admission) you can visit the picturesque Stow Hall Gardens.  The gardens have been in place since the early 1800’s and well worth a visit.

Sandringham – PE35 6EN (10.8 miles)

Sandringham is the much-loved country retreat of our beloved late Queen, and has been a private home of four generations of British Monarchs since 1862.  Sandringham house is nestled in 60 acres of formal gardens where you will come across rare and unusual trees, sweeping lawns, lakes, and water gardens. 

Here you can book to visit her House (when His Majesty is not visiting), grounds and car museum. Or, for just the price of the car park, you can instead explore the vast forest, many walking/biking trails and children’s grand woodland playground where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been known to visit.

Whilst you’re here, here is something else to do –

  • Wolferton Royal Station (PE31 6HA) - Nestled in the secluded village of Wolferton, next door to Sandringham, is a “station without tracks”.  For the hundred years or so that it was in use, it became the most famous royal station in the UK.  Wolferton Station played a very important part in Norfolk’s history back in 1862 when the single-track line from Kings Lynn to Hunstanton was opened.  A special Royal Train was put on to transport a whole host of Kings and Queens, Emperors and Empresses, politicians and titled gentry who came to stay at Sandringham. Today it is an incredibly well-kept time-piece that we treasure as one of the most memorable small museums you’ll be lucky enough to have the opportunity to visit.

Norfolk Lavender – PE31 7JE (14 miles)

If you’re travelling to either Hunstanton or Sandringham, make sure you plan a visit to Norfolk Lavender. Founded in 1932, Norfolk Lavender is England's premier lavender farm, renowned worldwide, it has nearly 100 acres of lavender under cultivation and is absolutely glorious in its peak months.  There is a mini lavender field on site that is free to visit, however, for the large fields, guided tours operate for most of the summer months, so make sure to call and check times and prices.  

On site there is also a lavender oil distillery. Here you can see the distillery up close, as well as have a guide show you all about the distillation of lavender flowers and how to make oil for Norfolk Lavender's world-famous perfume and toiletry range.

Whist you’re here, here are some extra things to do -

  • Farmer Fred’s Play Barn (Soft Play) – Attached to Norfolk Lavender is a large soft play attraction with a toddler area and sensory room.
  • Animal Gardens – The Animal Garden is a miniature farm based opposite Farmer Fred’s Play Barn.  Here you can find all sorts of animals, reptiles and birds to visit complete with a children’s play area.
  • Farm Shop and Café – Make sure you visit Norfolk Lavenders large farm shop and Café whist you’re there.  We recommend trying their famous Lavender Muffins. 

Oxburgh Hall – PE33 9PS (14.5 miles)

Oxburgh Hall is a stunning, late medieval, National Trust owned, country house in Oxborough.  Despite its fortified appearance, the moated Oxburgh Hall was intentionally built as a family home. It was completed in 1482 for Sir Edmund Bedingfeld and the Bedingfelds have lived there ever since, surviving Civil War, periods of near dereliction, and, in the 20th century, the threat of demolition.

The hall is known for its priest hole, a great piece of history which can only be accessed through a lavatory. The hall is also notable for the Oxburgh needlework Hangings by Mary, Queen of Scots and Bess of Hardwick. Mary worked on these while imprisoned in England, in the custody of the Earl of Shrewsbury

Whilst you’re here, here are some things not to miss –

  • Woodland Walks – Discover the gardens and wider estate by exploring some of the many picturesque woodland walks.  Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for otters as they are known to inhabit the area.
  • Guided Tours – At certain times Oxburgh Hall offers guided tours, a great addition to any visit.
  • Potting Shed Second Hand Bookshop – Fellow book lover?  This one is for you.
  • Kids Events – Oxburgh Hall often offers kids events throughout the year, check their website for the latest and how to book.
  • Servants Hall Tea Room – There is a lovely little tea room on site, perfect for a little pick me up.

Snettisham Park and Deer Safari – PE31 7NG (14.9 miles)

Snettisham Park, incorporating Park Farm, first opened to the public in 1986, and is a working Norfolk farm growing Wheat for animal feed, Malting Barley, Sugar Beet and Grass, grazed by their 400, ewe flock, heard of red deer and horses and ponies from the stables

One of Snettisham Park’s biggest attractions is their incredible Deer Safari. Their tractor and covered trailer, or Safari Land Rover ride is a magical experience not to be missed. During the 45 minute round trip you will meet and be able to feed a spectacular herd of red deer with over 60 hinds and 2 stags. You can be sure you’ll get an amazing close encounter with the Deer, all of which are more than happy to feed from your hands.

Whilst you’re here, here are some extra things not to miss –

  • Park Farm – Snettisham park is a working farm, so there is always lots to see and do. There are many activities you can get involved in, whether it's feeding, stroking, grooming, cuddling, collecting eggs, bottle feeding lambs or playing in the play area!
  • Woodland Trails – The Park offers 3 walking trails of various lengths all around the farm so make sure to pick up a map at reception and bring your wellies!
  • Pony Grooming Rides – Snettisham offer pony grooming all year round and pony rides during the school holidays so a fabulous treat for any horse lovers out there. 

Bircham Mill Windmill – PE31 6SJ (16.3 miles)

Today, very few windmills are left but Bircham Mill is considered one of the best still remaining. It is the only windmill in working order in this area open to the public, so is a very special place to visit. Standing in the heart of Norfolk's undulating fields, Bircham Windmill now looks as it did over 100 years ago.  Visitors can climb the five floors of this beautifully restored windmill, up to the fan stage and, when possible, on windy days, they can even see the sails and the milling machinery turning.  

Whilst you’re here, here’s some extra things not to miss! 

  • Bread Baking Experience - The bakery adjoining the mill still has its original, coal-fired oven for you to see. Today, they still bake in the original bakery and sell a wide range of bread and cakes and even offer you a special bread baking experience.  Here you can make a load from scratch or be given pre-made dough to create whatever you like, using cutters, rolling pins and bread tins. They then bake it off for you to take home. Suitable for anyone and everyone aged 2 to 102.
  • Animal Encounters - There are plenty of opportunities to get close to the animals at Bircham Windmill.  Children and adults alike can stroke the goat & sheep and feed them with special food from their dispenser.

Hunstanton - PE36 5AR (18 miles)

Hunstanton is a beautiful bustling seaside town. It faces west across the wash so is one of the few places on the east coast where the sun sets over the sea.  Well worth a look.  Here you can walk along the entire length of the beach and go from new to old, passing from stone, to rockpools, to sand as you reach the lighthouse into Old Hunstanton. 

Whist you’re in Hunstanton here are some extra things to look out for (some may be seasonal) -

  • The Wash Monster! -  Is that a boat or a car? Book a trip on the famous Wash Monster where you’ll get to be driven from the beach into the sea on an expedition to find some seals! Get your binoculars ready and climb aboard this amphibious vessel.
  • The Sea Life Centre – The Sea Life Centre at Hunstanton is very special because not only will you get to see all types of sea creatures, penguins, otters and turtles to name but a few, but it is also home to Norfolk’s Seal Hospital. Since opening the hospital, they have helped rescue and rehabilitate more than 750 seals from Norfolk and the surrounding counties. So, book a trip and visit the seals currently in their care. 
  • Alive! Oasis – Alive! Oasis is an indoor swimming pool situated on the sea front.  The pool is very popular with families as it has a heated baby pool with a little slide, as well as a large indoor slide in the main pool.  Oasis also has a soft play centre inside and a Café so a great destination, especially on those colder days.
  • Rainbow Park – Did you know that Hunstanton has a little fun fair right on the beach front? There are many rides here from a carousel to a roller coaster, so be sure to take some change if you wish to ride. (Seasonal Only)
  • Blackbeard’s Adventure Golf – Also along the sea front you’ll find a great little 18 hole, pirate themed, crazy golf course. If you have an hour spare, why not give it a go.
  • Old Hunstanton (PE36 6EL) - Just around the corner from Hunstanton is Old Hunstanton Beach. It is backed by both cliffs and dunes and is known for its immense expanse of sand at low tide and lighthouse.  It is a much quieter and close-to-nature beach compared to Hunstanton’s more commercial seafront with some very lovely walks.

Holkham Hall – NR23 1AB (22 miles)

Holkham Hall is a stunning 18th-century country house located adjacent to the village of Holkham in North Norfolk. The house was constructed in the Palladian style for the 1st Earl of Leicester and, although it is privately owned, it is open to the public.  The Hall is a member of the Treasure Houses group which consists of ten of the most magnificent palaces, houses and castles in England today, and is surrounded by rolling parkland with Fallow and Red Deer.

Whilst you’re here, here are some extra things to do –

  • Holkham Beach - Holkham beach is one of the most unspoilt and beautiful stretches of sand in the country.  At very high tides the semi-circular basin fills with water to form a spectacular shallow lagoon, so well worth a visit. Holkham Bay gained worldwide publicity when it featured in the Gwyneth Paltrow Oscar-winning movie Shakespeare in Love. The beach is enormous, totally unspoilt and has been voted the best beach in Britain.

Brancaster Beach - PE31 8AX – (21 miles)

Brancaster beach is one of North Norfolk's most beautiful beaches with miles of golden sand. It is a stunning stretch of uninterrupted sand with a wonderful sense of isolation. The sea is great for surfing or kite surfing, and the constant breeze makes it a great place for kids to fly their kites.  Walk down to the inlet on the north side and you can usually watch the seals play on the beach.

Whilst you’re here, here’s something else to spot –

  • SS Vina Shipwreck - At Brancaster Beach the shipwreck of the SS Vina can be viewed from the coast at low tide. Built in 1894 she spent her working life travelling the Baltic Trade routes before she was requisitioned for the war effort in 1940. The RNLI strongly discourage you from attempting to visit the SS Vina as it is separated from the beach by a wide, deep, fast-flowing channel of tidal water and the tide turns very quickly cutting people off from the land. So please take binoculars to have a good look but don’t put your lives in grave danger by attempting to cross this channel to visit the wreck.

High Lodge/Thetford Forest - IP27 0AF (26.9 miles)

Play, run, climb or cycle your way round High Lodge in Thetford Forest and experience nature at its finest.  Every corner of High Lodge has something just waiting to be discovered and the more you walk around the forest, the more you’ll find.  With play areas dotted around the forest, beautiful trails winding through rich wilderness and thrilling mountain biking opportunities, you’ll be itching to return.  The Heritage Trail at High Lodge, built with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, gives everyone the opportunity to enjoy the forest.  High Lodge has 4 walking/running trails and 3 cycling trails as well as many picnic areas and a café but that’s not all.

Aside from some of the beautiful nature trails, here are some of the many other activities High Lodge offers –

  • Gruffalo Trail - Head to the High Lodge Information Point to grab your trail activity kit, packed with fun things to do to help you spot the Gruffalo. From there, follow the Gruffalo Spotters trail into the deep dark wood to spot the signs and see what other creatures you can find!
  • Go Ape - Built for the whole family, this is the ultimate tree top experience of wobbly bridges, intricate crossings and a zip wire finale in High Lodge.  If you want to challenge your inner daredevil you can also try the Go Ape Tree Top Challenge.  This will take you to the top of the sky-scraping trees with Zip lines, nets, rope ladders and swings.
  • Segway - Go Ape Forest Segway’s are the best fun you can have off-road, on two eco-friendly wheels, without having to pedal!  You will receive training and get the chance to practice before you head out on an hour-long adventure, with a safari guide.
  • Archery (Seasonal) - Lookout Archery provides a complete archery experience from beginners to competition archers. They offer have-a-go, one-hour lessons, group bookings, birthday parties, corporate, school visits and family days out.
  • Get back to the wilderness - This course is an introduction to the world of bushcraft, survival and wilderness living. Here you’ll gain a good understanding of the basic skills required to help you survive in the wilderness.
  • Children’s Play Area and Sound Trail - From the sand play area for toddlers, the maypole, or their den building area it is easy for everyone to spend a fun day out playing in the woods. Kids can make their own music in the Sound Trail, play on giant swings or climb up into the Treehouse to hide out in the canopy.
  • Thurston Leisure (Seasonal) - Jump as high as the tree tops on their bungee trampolines and have a go at a somersault if you dare – suitable for adults and children! Or hone your skills as you roll around while Land Zorbing in a purpose built arena on your own or increase the energy and battle with a friend.

Ely – CB7 4DL (27.1 miles)

If you like history and architecture then Ely is the place to go, as it here you will find the incredible Ely Cathedral.  The cathedral has become a legacy of William I who built it to show his power, and it still dominates over the town, remaining open to the public every day. 

Ely Cathedral is home to the largest Lady Chapel attached to any British Cathedral and the beautifully painted Nave ceiling. It is also home to the Octagon, which is known as the jewel of Ely's Crown and acknowledged as one of the wonders of the Medieval world.   Ely also has the oldest collection of monastic buildings still in daily use.

Whilst you’re here why don’t you also visit –

  • Oliver Cromwell’s House (CB7 4HF) – Visit the former Lord Protector's family home, the only residence still in existence other than Hampton Court. Visitors have the opportunity to try on costumes and try out the games of the time as well as truly experience what life was like on the battlefields during the English Civil War in their mini encampment.
  • Escape Room – Based in Oliver Cromwell’s house, is an immersive, interactive escape game where you’ll need to work together to find the clues and solve the puzzles within 60 minutes.  Enter the escape room and find yourself in Cromwell's former Tithe Office, an original 17th century, oak panelled room, where Oliver would have counted the local taxation payments.
  • Peacocks Tearoom (CB7 4AU) – Next door to a large antique shop in Ely you’ll find the Peacocks Tearooms.  Overlooking the river, the Peacocks Tearoom is a picturesque, homely, family run business that sells homemade lunches from a quirky menu.
  • Wicken Fen Nature Reserve (CB7 5XP) – A 15-minute drive will take you to Wicken Fen Nature Reserve. Wicken Fen offers a glimpse into the ancient fenland landscape. It has been in the care of the National Trust since 1899 and is the Trust’s oldest nature reserve.

Springfields Outlet Shopping and Leisure – PE12 6EU (27.9 miles)

Want to get your shop on? Springfields Outlet is a huge, village style, outlet shopping experience with over 50 big name retail brands offering discounts of up to 75% off RRPs every day. Anything you could need and want can be found here, including cafes and a garden centre. 

Want to do more than just shop? They’ve got you covered – 

  • Adventureland – Home to the UK’s largest JCB Young Drivers Zone, adventure land offers hours of fun for Children up to 12 years old.  Here they can mine for gold, ride a train, jump on a Skynet, play dinosaur golf and more!
  • Festival Gardens - The Springfields Festival Gardens are a beautifully landscaped area, featuring Chelsea-style celebrity showcase gardens, including a spectacular Japanese Garden, art installations and a senses garden to name but a few.  All areas in the Festival Gardens are wheelchair accessible.
  • Spalding Water Taxi (PE12 6AA) – Linking Springfields Outlet to Spalding town centre book to travel in style on the relaxing 40 minute cruise that is the Spalding Water Taxi.

Wells next the Sea – NR23 1DR (32 miles)

Wells next the sea is a small town and port on the North Norfolk coast. It is famous for its vast, sweeping sandy beach and colourful beach huts. There are few better places to relax, unwind and enjoy the sea air. Walk the dogs, fly a kite, build sandcastles, play ball games, birdwatch, or just kick off your shoes, feel the sand between your toes and have fun paddling in the shallows.

Whist you’re here don’t miss out on what else Wells has to offer – 

  • Seal Watching Trips Blakeney Point (NR25 7BH) - Seal watching at Blakeney Point is one of the “must-do” experiences for visitors to Wells. Observe the common and grey seals and their pups basking on the shore in their natural environment. Boat trips run throughout the year from Blakeney and Morston Quay, just a few minutes along the coast road.
  • Wells and Washington Light Railway (Seasonal) (NR23 1QB)  A big day out on the world’s smallest public railway. Take a journey on this 10¼” gauge miniature railway from Wells-next-the-Sea to the historic village of Walsingham. Relax and enjoy the nostalgic sights and sounds of steam travel on the 4 mile journey through the beautiful Norfolk countryside.
  • Wells Harbour Tours (NR23 1AT) - Enjoy Wells from the water and take a tour of the harbour, past historical buildings and sailing ships. Explore the flora and fauna of the salt marsh creeks, or venture out to sea for spectacular sunsets and glorious coastal views in this great way to discover the colourful history of Wells!

Sheringham – NR26 8BW (42 miles)

Sheringham is a traditional seaside town, which grew up around its old fishing village, and a few little boats still bring in the daily catch. Sheringham is famous for its Steam Railway but its sea, cliffs, fine sands and bracing air are some of the reasons why Sheringham is so popular. Among the glories of the area are the surrounding woods of Upper Sheringham (including Sheringham Park), with views over the sea, and miles of bracken-covered undulating uplands, covered with golden gorse and purple heather. The town of Sheringham is anything but the monotonous strip, with the promenade running in and out of the low cliffs, while steps and slopes connect it with the town above. Sheringham has plenty of facilities, including many interesting shops, pubs, restaurants and tea rooms.

Whilst you’re here, here are some things you won’t want to miss.

  • North Norfolk Steam Railway – Poppy Line (NR26 8RA) - The North Norfolk Railway (the ‘Poppyline’) is a preserved steam railway connecting the towns of Sheringham and Holt, passing through Weybourne Station. It provides a ‘living history’ – offering an enjoyable and interesting insight into a time when railways flourished.
  • Hilltop Outdoor Centre (NR26 8TS) - Give boredom the boot with an action-packed Family Adventure Day at Hilltop Outdoor Centre.  Activities onsite include: Air Jump, The Big Zipper, Super Swing, Climbing Wall, Archery and a Tree Top Trail.
  • Sherringham Park (NR26 8TL) - Enjoy a long cycle or walk through this large National Trust owned park and estate. The parkland surrounds the 19th century Sheringham Hall and includes miles of peaceful woodland trails, beautiful landscaped gardens and fabulous views of the Norfolk coast.
  • Sheringham Museum (Seasonal) (NR26 8BG) - Sheringham has a recorded history that stretches back over a thousand years. The Museum tells the story of the town and its proud, brave, independent people, told through beautiful displays packed with interesting things to see, hear and do.

Cromer – NR27 9AT (45 miles)

Back in the 19th century, Cromer was developed into a seaside resort by the late Victorians. Today the streets and alleys are bustling with shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy the famous Cromer crab!

All year round, spending time on the beach at Cromer is a must. Have a go at crabbing, building sandcastles on the family friendly sands or try surfing and paddle boarding. The Norfolk coast path passes through the area offering fantastic scenic walks. With a great choice of things to do, Cromer is ideal for a day out, all year round.

Whist you’re here don’t miss out on these activities –

  • The Pavilion Theatre/Cromer Pier (NR27 9HE) - The Pavilion Theatre on Cromer Pier boasts annual summer and winter shows which draw crowds from far and wide. Book ahead to avoid disappointment.
  • Crabbing – Cromer is famous for its crab and you can have a go at crabbing yourself!  Grab a bucket, some bait and a spot on the pier to see what you can catch! (And release)
  • Cromer Lifeboat Station (NR27 9HE) – The Lifeboat station is free to visit all year round. Here you can learn more about the station and see their Tamar class lifeboat, Lester.
  • Cromer Museum (NR27 9BF) - A small but dedicated museum showing just how important the fishing industry was, and still is, to Cromer.  It also details the history of Cromer and is a little gem that’s worth seeing.

Norwich – NR1 3LX (46.3 miles)

Norwich is one of the oldest cities in England and is the closest city to Hay’s Wood Retreat.  Not just a fantastic place to shop or eat out, Norwich is home to a 900-year-old Norman Castle, two Cathedrals and is the most complete medieval city in the UK. Norwich is rich with history so why not explore one of its oldest buildings, Strangers Hall or discover how people earned their living at the Bridewell Museum.  Visit Norwich Cathedral, whose spire is the 2nd tallest in the country, explore the dungeons and the battlements of Norwich Castle or see fabulous art at the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts. 

There are so many incredible days out to be had in Norwich, so we’ve listed some of our favourites below-

  • Blickling Hall (NR11 6NF) - Blickling Hall is the birth place of Anne Boleyn, a stately home which is part of the Blickling estate. In the care of the National Trust since 1940, here you can immerse yourself in the vast history of this grand estate, wander the 4,600 acres of woodland or discover the 55 acres of beautiful formal garden
  • BeWILDerwood (Seasonal) (NR12 8JW) – BeWILDerwood, is a huge woodland full of family fun, imagination, and outdoor adventure! Home to the Boggles and Twiggles, you’ll hear their story on a magical boat ride as you travel into their village. A day at BeWILDerwood means endless hours exploring high in their wonky village of treehouses, whizzing down super slides, zipping along extra-long zip wires and swinging on giant swings.  BeWilderwood also have interactive storytelling puppet shows and a creative craft tent amongst other things. The best part? Adults get to play too!
  • Norfolk Broads National Park (NR1 1RY) – The famous Norfolk Broads are a network of mostly navigable rivers and lakes. With over 190 miles of footpaths and nature trails through gentle rolling countryside and quiet countryside lanes, Norfolk Broads is perfect for those looking for leisurely walks and being a part of nature. If you want to taste the exhilaration of being afloat, the Broads offers river cruises, sailing and motor boats, canoeing, rowing and wildlife boat trips for memorable days out. 
  • Felbrigg Hall (NR11 8PR) - Felbrigg Hall is a 17th-century English country house.  Part of a National Trust property, the unaltered 17th-century house is noted for its Jacobean architecture and fine Georgian interior. Outside is a walled garden, an orangery and orchards.
  • Roar Dinosaur Adventure (NR9 5JE) – Known as the UK’s best all-inclusive award-winning dinosaur themed adventure park, Roar Dinosaur Adventure is set across 85 acres and offers true family fun and adventure of a Jurassic nature. Here you’ll find animatronic dinosaurs in natural settings, a Splash Zone, Predator High Ropes, an Animal Garden and Norfolk’s largest indoor play area. Guests can also explore a life size Dinosaur Trail including a huge Brontosaurus, dig for fossils and so much more! The park also hosts a number of family themed events throughout the year.

Here are a few other places worth a visit –

  • Hybrid Archery – PE14 8PN (15.3 miles) – Fancy your hand at a bit of Archery? Hybrid Archery are a pay to play archery range offering coaching and team building events!
  • Welney Wetlands – PE14 9TN (19 miles) - Welney has a beautiful wetland reserve and eco-friendly visitor centre. Here you can experience their famous swan feeds and enjoy watching the birds close to the main hide whilst the warden gives commentary over the speakers.  It’s quite the spectacular sight.
  • Fens Falconry – PE13 4RY (18 miles) - Fens Falconry is an appointment only bird of prey centre delivering exciting experience days and vitally important education to promote ecology and conservation.
  • Langham Glass and Glassmaking Experiences - NR21 8ET (24 miles) - Open all year round you can see a team of glassmakers using age old techniques to create their well-known and collectable finest handmade crystal. You can also book a glassmaking or glassblowing experience.
  • Manor Farm Woodland Walks – PE13 4LF (22.6 miles) - Every day is an adventure at Manor Farm Park & Woodlands. You’ll find over 20 types of animals to see, woodlands to explore and both indoor and outdoor play areas to discover. You can also experience a unique dining experience while you visit their tea room in a real railway carriage. 
  • Gressenhall Workhouse and Farm Museum (Seasonal) – NR20 4DR (27.7 miles) - With a history dating back to 1777 Gressenhall Workhouse is a unique museum.  Here you can step back in time and explore what life was like for those who once lived and worked at the workhouse.  You can also browse old village shops, the old school room and a 1930’s rural cottage.  On site there is also a real working farm, café, adventure playground and a museum of Norfolk Life.
  • Johnsons of Old Hurst – PE28 3AF (40 miles) – Home to many crocodiles and other species this is not just your average farm. Holding a Carbon Neutral status, this farm with zoological gardens are on a mission to give families the chance to get close to the animals and educate on the importance of the environment.

Please note: We are a CASHLESS site