Fancy sailing down the iconic Mississippi river? Ok, not quite, but there’s a double-deck paddle boat waiting for you on the Broads! Sit back as this American inspired cruiser winds its way past sleepy windmills and thatched cottages along the River Bure, bird spotting and listening to the skipper’s tales as you go. Water and wildlife are one of nature’s most relaxing combinations, perhaps that’s why Beans Boats has proved so popular for the last 80 years! Sail out of Blakeney Harbour and get up close to the inquisitive seal colony that have made Norfolk their home, summer months can be particularly exciting as this is when the common seals pup.
Driving into Norfolk you can’t miss the signs for Houghton Hall’s special summer showcase. This exquisite Palladian mansion, built for Britain’s first Prime Minister, is staging major solo exhibitions from Antony Gormley and Magdalene Odundo. Be wowed by 100 life-size cast iron figures and delicate ceramic sculptures inspired by the hall’s sumptuous state rooms. It’s not just Houghton that’s hosted the rich and famous. Sandringham Estate has been closely linked to the monarchy since 1862 and continues to provide a private country retreat for the King & Queen. This year, the Estate hosts its 141st flower show, which is renowned for its exciting arena events alongside traditional floral competitions and show gardens.
Following the recent opening of the King Charles III England Coast Path the entire Norfolk coast is now accessible to walkers! The 75 mile stretch from Great Yarmouth to Hunstanton with Cromer, Sheringham and Wells-next-the-Sea in between provides endless joy. From simply spending a summer’s day by the sea, to Great Yarmouth’s dazzling circus show (featuring one of only three sinking rings in the world), to a nostalgic steam train ride through coast and country on Sheringham’s Poppy Line and an end-of-pier variety show in Cromer – you don’t get much more ‘British Seaside’ than that!
So why not spend a day in Norfolk, just 'next door' but feeling far away.
