5. Norfolk
Best for: boaters, birders, beach-lovers and foodies.
With its sweeping horizons, broad sandy beaches (like Holkham Bay), and wonderful waterways, Norfolk has long attracted travellers looking for beautiful back-to-nature breaks.
If that sounds like you, visit in spring to enjoy some of the region’s top wildlife experiences. For example, seal-spotting trips start in March. Departing from Morston quay, the ferry stops at Blakeney Point Nature Reserve, where dunes, shingle, salt marshes and mudflats attract seabirds from late spring.
Another great way to immersive yourself in wildlife while being wowed by wide-open vistas is to boat the Norfolk Broads. Take your pick from rowing, motor boating, or skippering a sailing boat. Alternatively, the Norfolk Coastal Cycleway traverses an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and it’s agreeably flat, too.
Alongside all this natural beauty, Norfolk isn’t short of manmade marvels. It's home to the Queen’s Sandringham Estate, handsome Holkham Hall, ancient villages, and striking places of worship, among them Norwich Cathedral. Its soaring spire, elegant cloisters, painted medieval panels and carvings present over 900-years of history and architectural splendour.
Cathedral aside, Norwich is a stunner. Though small in size, it’s big on charm, especially on Elm Hill, where you can shop and eat your way up the winding incline surrounded by medieval buildings and blossoming trees. This was included in our round-up of the top 20 UK locations for amazing street photography for very good reason.
Intrigued? If you’re ready to plan your trip, our Staycations Norfolk guidebook is packed with time-saving itineraries, also read our guide to the best things to do in Norfolk and find some top ideas for your holidays here.
Where to stay in Norfolk:
- Superbly sited in a 13th-century building in Norwich’s Cathedral Quarter, The Maids Head Hotel is packed with period features. Or, if you fancy taking to the water, book a stay on the Norfolk Broads Cruiser.