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Things to Do in Norfolk This Winter

With the days getting lighter and many sunny winter days ahead, it’s a great time to get out of the house. Despite the cold, there are many things to do in Norfolk on your own, as a couple, or with your whole family. Here are some of our suggestions for the best activities in Norfolk to get you out of the house this winter. 

Go for a walk on the coast 

Happisburgh Beach via UK Beach Guide

Long walks on the beach are a Norfolk classic, whether you’re walking the dog, having a romantic date, or enjoying a day of family fun. Put on some layers and get refreshed on one of the many beautiful beaches on the Norfolk coast. Afterwards, why not enjoy a comforting mug of hot chocolate at a cafe, or a warming lunch by the fire at a pub nearby? Some of our favourite lesser-known beaches include Overstrand with its green cliffs, Happisburgh with its immense historical value, and Brancaster for its dog-friendly expanse. 

Watch the birds rise with the sun

Snettisham bird spectacular via The Royal Photographic Society

We highly recommend getting up early to go see the sunrise on the coast. Not only that, but because North and West Norfolk house a fantastic variety of migratory birds in the winter, you’ll see them rise too as they leave their overnight roosts! A great place to watch this spectacle is Snettisham Nature Reserve, where masses of waterfowl gather, and peregrines and hen harriers hunt. Goldeneyes also gather here, beginning to display in preparation for spring. 

Visit Cromer Pier

The stunning promenade at Cromer Pier

Cromer’s heritage seaside pier, opened in 1901, is a huge local landmark. At the end of the pier, you will find The Pavilion Theatre, which is a much-loved seaside attraction and one of only five end-of-pier theatres in the UK. The theatre hosts a wide variety of entertainment throughout the year, including the Cromer Pier Show. Furthermore, the pier has a working RNLI Lifeboat station, a cafe, and a bar, making it a great place for a day out, with plenty to see. 

Go tropical at Urban Jungle Plant Nursery and Cafe

The cake counter among tropical plants at Urban Jungle, via EDP

Why not escape to a tropical place while it’s cold outside? If you like tropical plants, delicious food, and unusual settings, you must visit Urban Jungle in Old Costessey. Not only can you stroll around looking at their incredible selection of indoor and outdoor plants before sitting down for tea and some cake, but they also organise events such as terrarium, macrame, floral, wreath, and aquascaping workshops. There’s something for everyone at this indoor tropical paradise, so make sure to check it out! 

Explore Felbrigg Hall and its enormous estate

A glimpse of the interior of Felbrigg Hall

The 17th century hall at Blickling was owned by the Boleyn family, and it is likely that Anne spent a portion of her early years here, giving it immense historic interest. Managed by the National Trust, the property is also known for its beautiful, original Jacobean architecture and fine Georgian interior. The Hall also boasts a walled garden, orangerie, cafe, shop, and 800 acres of land for you to explore. 

Take a ride on the North Norfolk Railway

A view of the North Norfolk Railway, via The Globe Inn in Wells-next-the-Sea

Starting in Sheringham, a real steam train will take you on a journey to see the beautiful landscapes and coastlines of North Norfolk! William Marriott built the railway in 1887, and it ran until 1924. The timetable is somewhat limited in winter, but on the plus side there are special events and activities! 

We hope we have given you some good ideas for what to do in Norfolk for the remainder of the wintertime. Wrap up warmly and go enjoy the sun and fresh air, historical landmarks, and family activities! There is plenty to do out there if you are looking. 

Posted on January 21, 2020

Posted in Blog