With miles of unspoilt coastline, a network of rivers and lakes forming the famous Norfolk Broads and a rich history dating back to pre-Roman times, Norfolk is a wonderful place to visit during any time of the year especially to see seals. However, as the winter months approach and the leaves on the trees begin to brown, Nelson’s county is transformed into a uniquely beautiful landscape full of charming walks, fascinating places to visit and lively events that will delight the whole family.
The Norfolk Coast
Norfolk is home to a fantastic selection of beaches that range from golden coastlines covered by sandy dunes, to impressive stony beaches accompanied by local fishing boats. Indeed, Norfolk’s beaches are incredibly varied, meaning that you can discover picturesque walks at remote destinations such as Horsey, or take advantage of the rides and attractions of a traditional seaside resort at Great Yarmouth.
There are also plenty of seasonal excursions to be enjoyed across the region, including fantastic Yuletide shows, such as the Cromer Pier Christmas Show, which is officially the last end-of-pier theatre experience in the UK.
Animal lovers can also take the opportunity to meet some of Norfolk’s fascinating wildlife, with a Winter Wildlife Safari with Grey Seals that pup during the winter at Blakeney Point. During the winter they number in the thousands, making this a truly remarkable experience for the whole family.
Nelson’s Country
Lord Nelson once proclaimed that ‘I am a Norfolk man and Glory in being so’ and while both Nelson and the country he so fondly spoke of are famed for their links to the sea, Norfolk is also home to miles of countryside and rural tradition. This unspoilt countryside provides the perfect backdrop for wonderful walks, local wildlife watching and exploring Norfolk’s varied attractions and welcoming villages.
The Sculthorpe Moor Nature Reserve, near Fakenham, is a peaceful retreat that is famed for its woodland and fens, which are home to a stunning array of wildlife. The reserve has been specially prepared with walkways that provide easy access for visitors with limited mobility and each walkway is littered with bird boxes that make the site a hugely popular destination with birdwatchers. During the summer months, visitors include breeding marsh harrier, hobby, warblers and cuckoo, while other breeds can be discovered during the winter months.
Norfolk also has its share of Metropolitan wonders to explore, which will enable you to blend the peace of a rural getaway with the luxuries of city shopping and fine dining. As the county town of Norfolk and traditional capital city of East Anglia, Norwich is the UK’s most complete medieval city and a wonderful venue for a spot of shopping in the city’s charming lanes of independent shops. The city is also home to many recognisable high street names and boasts two shopping centres at the Castle Mall and Intu Chapelfield, each with shops, coffee shops and popular places to eat.
As you can image, Norwich is also steeped in history, so be sure to visit the Thombland with its wonderful bookshops and bars. The city also boasts its famous castle, two imposing cathedrals and two universities that are well regarded for their contributions to natural sciences and the arts, so there really is something for everyone.
Settling Down
With its rich history and varied locations, it should come as no surprise to learn that Norfolk is home to a fantastic selection of unique holiday cottages that provide the perfect base for exploring everything that this charming county has to offer. These range from pet-friendly properties, snug boltholes for two and luxury accommodations that offer that extra something special, such as hot tubs or stunning coastal views. Norfolk Cottages are a leading, locally-based holiday lettings company which was founded by the Ellis family in 1992 and today remains in family ownership with a passionate team of staff who are proud to live in Norfolk itself. Their local knowledge is second-to-none, as they are truly part of the local community and would love to be your guide in discovering a fantastic family retreat this winter, or later on in 2019!
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