As a rural county, Norfolk has many things to offer in terms of outdoor activities. From the historical sites in the city of Norwich to the beautiful rivers and waterways of The Norfolk Broads, it is an ideal place for those seeking both picturesque countryside views and city culture. As well as this, North Norfolk boasts a fantastic coastline for those wishing to experience a classic British seaside break.
Norfolk is a county situated in the East of England and is a popular tourist destination whether you're looking for a weekend away in one of our holiday homes, or a more extended family holiday in our unique Norfolk cottages. Read more
With a lovely secluded sandy beach on the doorstep, this dog-friendly coastal retreat offers a peaceful bolt-hole for a relaxing seaside holiday on the Norfolk Coast - an ideal self-catering base for exploring Norfolk's many attractions including miles of coastal walks.
Cromer Flint Cottage is a traditional Norfolk flint holiday cottage located in the popular seaside town of Cromer. Sleeping four guests in two bedrooms, and with the beach just a short walk away, it is perfect for families, friends and couples looking for a self-catering holiday by the sea. It’s just a three-minute walk to the town centre and with fantastic walking trails, National Trust properties and gorgeous gardens just a short drive away, you couldn’t be in a better place to explore the beautiful county of Norfolk.
You can't get more waterfront than this holiday cottage in the Norfolk Broads. Yare Cottage is in Wroxham, with the marina on one side and the River Bure on the other. It sleeps six people in three bedrooms and is child and pet-friendly. You're close to shops, cafes, pubs, restaurants, bike rental and boat hire. There are private fishing rights for anglers and a golf course nearby. Norwich and Great Yarmouth are only half an hour's drive from the self-catering property, giving you excellent access to the best of the Broads in all seasons.
The Norfolk coastline is stunning, with golden sandy beaches that stretch for miles in both directions. Brancaster is a fantastic example that you can easily enjoy when you stay at Crosswaye. The comfortable bungalow has recently been updated to provide a high standard of self-catering accommodation for up to four people. It is very popular with couples, families and friends who like that it is in a quiet location yet close to places like Wells-next-the-Sea, Holkham, Holme, Hunstanton, the Titchwell RSPB Reserve and The Wash Nature Reserve. It is a five-minute walk to The Ship Inn village pub, and a mile to Brancaster beach and dunes (twenty minutes or less on foot or bike).
Families, extended families and friends are all welcome at Houghton Farmhouse. The period holiday home is in a lovely location on the edge of Walsingham and within easy reach of the coast. The acre-sized grounds include a heated swimming pool and a games room, while the main house accommodates up to 18 people in 7 bedrooms and has excellent self-catering facilities. You can happily spend all your time at home or explore the coast and attractions like the royal Sandringham estate and beWILDerwood.
Tucked away in a quiet spot in the heart of Holt with pretty courtyard garden, off-road parking and lovely piano, this characterful romantic holiday cottage provides the perfect base for a relaxing holiday and exploring Norfolk's many attractions. With cafes, pubs, independent shops and a train station within strolling distance, you don't need to have a car to enjoy a holiday in 8 Carpenters Cottage. However, if you do, the coast, country houses and Norfolk countryside peppered with pretty villages and towns are just waiting to be discovered.
Perfect for couples looking for a weekend away or a longer holiday exploring East Anglia, this romantic Four Star Gold holiday home sleeps two guests and sits in the village of Flixton on the Suffolk/Norfolk borders. There is a village pub a short walk away as well as the popular Aviation Museum. St Peter's Brewery is also within walking distance and the lovely beaches and nature reserves of the Suffolk coastline are within easy reach by car. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
The Old Coach House has wide appeal, offering couples single level dog-friendly self-catering. Sitting on the Norfolk/Suffolk border in the village of Flixton (with village pub and Aviation Museum within strolling distance), this welcoming cottage for two provides the perfect base for exploring the many attractions of both Suffolk and Norfolk including the coast, nature reserves, Norwich and the nearby Norfolk Broads. Short breaks and longer holidays available all year round. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
A delightful Four Star Gold holiday retreat sleeping two on the Suffolk/Norfolk borders in the village of Flixton with a village pub and the Aviation Museum a short stroll away. St Peter's Brewery is also within walking distance and Suffolk's coast is a short car ride away with beaches for lazy days and some of the country's top nature reserves. Short breaks offered all year round - an excellent choice for couples who enjoy walking, cycling, bird watching, exploring and relaxing. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
Providing single storey self-catering, Sam's Stable offers Four Star Gold self-catering for couples and is conveniently located on the Suffolk/Norfolk border in the village of Flixton. There is a village pub and the Aviation Museum within easy strolling distance as well as St Peter's Brewery (a little further but still within walking distance for those who intend on sampling a pint or two of Suffolk's finest!). All the right ingredients for a relaxing break and within easy reach of the coast for days at the beach or visiting the nature reserves. Norwich city centre is also within easy reach. Short breaks available all year round (two night minimum). Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
A private waterside holiday home on a small complex, ideally positioned in the heart of Wroxham on the Norfolk Broads directly alongside the River Bure. Magical waterways to explore and just 10 miles from Norfolk coastline and the City of Norwich. Excellent amenities are within walking distance from Riverside Reach, including cafes, restaurants, and the famous Roys of Wroxham department store. The one-bedroom cottage comfortably sleeps couples, and guests can rent mooring if they have a boat.
Orchid Lodge is steps from the River Bure with fantastic views of the marina. The self-catering holiday cottage in Horning is ideal for couples and families who want to experience the best of the Broads, including from the water. Orchid Lodge has a 21ft mooring right next to the house, perfect if you want to hire a boat for a couple of days. There is loads of scope for walks and bike rides beside the river and through beautiful countryside and boating, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The waterfront Ferry Inn pub is within a short walk, as are shops, cafes and other amenities. Despite its conveniently central location, guests will enjoy the peace and tranquillity that can only come from being beside the water.
Sunset Haven is a comfortable holiday cottage in the lively village of Hoveton in the Norfolk Broads. Sitting in an enviable position in a quiet backwater on the river, with its own private mooring, this is an excellent location for relaxing, enjoying a spot of fishing, bird watching, canoeing and sailing.
You'll understand why so many people love holidaying at Canfers Barn as soon as you arrive. The former stable and cart shed is now a beautiful single-storey holiday cottage sleeping two people in one bedroom with a dog also welcome. It's on a quiet family-run farm with five other properties, a few miles from Holt and Blakeney and within easy reach of Sheringham, Cromer and Norwich. This area blends the best of Norfolk's countryside and coast, putting you close to stately homes, nature reserves, National Trust properties and other fantastic attractions.
A peaceful rural retreat with tranquil views, no near neighbours (other than grazing sheep) and three beautifully presented ensuite bedrooms make Bayses Barn popular with families and friends for a self-catering holiday in North Norfolk. The former lambing barn is on the edge of Briningham village, a few miles from Holt and a short drive from beautiful beaches. It has been beautifully renovated with the help of an architect to make the most of its outlook over the valley. Country and coastal walks, stately homes, nature reserves, and family-friendly attractions are all within easy reach, as are local farmers' markets, excellent food shops, pubs and cafes.
Sleeps 8 - A delightful cottage in the heart of the quaint riverside village of Horning, known as the Jewel of The Broads. Perfect base to explore the village and surrounding Broads. Deceivingly spacious inside with a great family feel.
The Whim is a wonderful seafront holiday home on the Norfolk Coast. Sleeping 14 people in seven bedrooms, it suits extended families who want to stay close to the beach but not at one of the louder, more touristy spots like Cromer. The house enjoys incredible views, a big enclosed garden with a deck, and lots of space for everyone. You can walk to the Blue Flag beach, shops and pub in around ten minutes, or stay at the house and use the indoor swimming pool and sauna. The self-catering facilities are excellent.
Impress your guests with a stay at Hackford Hall. Dating from the 17th Century, this Georgian gem sleeps 28 people in 13 bedrooms and features an indoor swimming pool, gym, games room, and 32 acres of grounds, including a tennis court. It's ideal for your self-catering holiday with friends, family reunion, celebration, or retreat, with lots of space and a flexible layout that suits different activities. The big holiday home is in Norfolk, at the end of a private driveway on the edge of Reepham, with beautiful views and easy access to the countryside.
With its gracious proportions, lovely furnishings and features that include an acre of walled gardens, an indoor pool and a tennis court, it's no wonder that Edgar Farmhouse is a favourite for family reunions and holidays with friends. Whether you're a group of hens celebrating before a wedding or hosting your family for Christmas, this holiday home is ideal for a self-catering break. The farmhouse is in Walsingham, 14 miles from Norwich, within easy reach of the North Norfolk coast and popular attractions like Sandringham and beWILDerwood.
Saltkettle is a big self-catering holiday cottage in North Norfolk. The five-bedroom detached house has a flexible layout to accommodate two to 12 people comfortably. It is in the lovely Norfolk village of Blakeney, a short walk from the quay, two pubs and the village shop. It's part of an AONB and on the edge of a river and a nature reserve home to the biggest grey seal colony in England and thousands of migrating birds. You'll feel wonderfully welcome when you stay here, whether you're escaping for a couple's getaway, meeting friends for a holiday filled with excellent walks and bike rides, or treating the kids to bucket-and-spade fun.
Popular towns in and around Norfolk:
AlbyAttleboroughAylshamBactonBanhamBergh AptonBlakeneyBrancasterBrancaster StaitheBrundallBungayBurgh St PeterBurnham MarketClippesbyCorpustyCromerDerehamDissDownham MarketEast RustonFakenhamGreat SnoringGreat YarmouthHappisburghHeachamHicklingHigh KellingHoltHorningHunstantonKing's LynnKings LynnLitchamLoddonMundesleyNectonNorfolk BroadsNorfolk/Suffolk BordersNorth WalshamNorwichRockland St MaryRollesbyRushallSalhouseScratbySea PallingSheringhamStalhamStokesbySutton StaitheThetfordThorpe MarketUptonWells-next-the-SeaWinterton-on-SeaWisbechWroxhamWymondhamSome local suggestions:
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Norfolk is the perfect choice for those craving culture and heritage, nature, adventure, wildlife and the tranquillity of water, whether by the sea or on the river. With its fantastic architecture, picturesque countryside and some of the country's finest beaches, Norfolk is a county that has something for everyone.
One of the most popular places to stay in Norfolk for culture is Norwich, where the ancient city offers plenty of history, great pubs and multiple shopping places. In addition, Norwich is one of the UK’s best-preserved mediaeval cities, so it’s a great place for those seeking history.
Cromer is an excellent option for holidays in Norfolk with the whole family. The seaside resort offers great beaches and many visitor attractions, providing you with lots to do with the kids.
There are also several excellent restaurants, shops and boutiques in Cromer, perfect for those who want to spend the day wandering through the town.
For those visiting Norfolk with their four-legged friends, Hunstanton is the place to be for its great unrestricted beach. The elegant seaside town provides views over The Wash and has an array of seaside activities like crazy golf, pleasure gardens, and an extensive sandy stretch.
Before booking your holiday cottage in Norfolk, you can find all the information you need for your trip.
Check out our complete guide to Eastern England & East Anglia for more tips.
The spring in Norfolk is lovely as the landscape bursts into life with lots of flora and fauna, lambs are springing through the countryside, and bluebells litter the woodlands. Spring is a great time to visit for those seeking days walking along the coast or following other trails through the county as the weather is mild and comfortable, with average temperatures of around 17°C.
Summer is a great month to relax on the many beaches in Norfolk as the temperature averages around 21°C, usually accompanied by bright blue skies and lovely sunshine. The pleasant temperatures also provide an excellent climate for those who aim to wander through the cobbled streets of Norfolk’s towns and villages.
Winter is also a good time for Norfolk holidays. Compared to many other counties in the UK, Norfolk isn’t as cold, although the weather still drops drastically from the warm summer temperatures to around 8°C from December to February.
With the beautiful countryside such a prominent attraction in Norfolk, there are numerous outdoor pursuits to enjoy both inland and on the water. The extensive waterways of the Broads are ideal places for nature lovers, with rivers branching out in every direction, providing a haven for sailors, canoeists, wildlife enthusiasts and those who simply like to relax by the water.
For those seeking the sea, head towards the Norfolk coast, which offers an impressive ninety miles of coastline so there are plenty of opportunities for great days out by the sea. Great Yarmouth and Cromer should top your list for traditional seaside fun, as well as Holkham and Wells beaches, which allow quiet spots for a picnic.
Norfolk also offers relaxing outdoor activities. A trip on heritage railway lines provides an effortless way of seeing the countryside. Fishing and bird watching are popular in many nature reserves, such as Cley Marshes.
If you happen to only be visiting Norfolk for the weekend, there is still plenty to do! Check out our Norfolk holiday guide to help you in the right direction.
When travelling from one of the major cities in the UK, below shows an average distance from there to Norfolk holiday cottages on the border, so you know what to expect when visiting by car.
London: 106 miles
Birmingham: 148 miles
Glasgow: 359 miles
Liverpool: 243 miles
Bristol: 228 miles
Manchester: 176 miles
Leeds: 156 miles
Edinburgh: 358 miles
Newcastle: 239 miles
There are multiple ways to travel to Norfolk; with its excellent public transport, you can journey by train or coach from many major UK cities. If you travel by car, there are some great service stations to stop off and rest up whilst on your trip and alternative routes depending on what roads you prefer to drive on.
The City of Norwich is the ideal stop for art and culture. Famous for its festivals, the themes range from art and film to food and drink.
Norwich Cathedral is also awe-inspiring. If you prefer to venture through the city streets, The Lanes are part of the historic quarter of Norwich. With cobbled streets and Georgian architecture, The Lanes offer a plethora of independent shops and boutiques.
Thinking about architecture in Norfolk would not be complete without the castles and stately homes of the countryside. Holkham Hall, with its nature reserve, is a beautiful site close to the Norfolk coastline. In addition, the royal Sandringham Estate is situated in Norfolk, with its museum exhibition of gifts to the Queen a 'must-see' on any visitor's itinerary.
Norfolk has seven distinct areas, all of which make great holiday destinations. Therefore the choice primarily comes down to what you want to do whilst visiting.
Great Yarmouth is perfect for those seeking a traditional holiday by the sea in a coastal cottage; its family-friendly amusements and entertainment help keep the whole clan happy. There is so much to do in Great Yarmouth, a holiday here will be jam-packed with fun at the Pleasure Beach to uncover history at the Tide & Time Museum.
Broads National Park is an excellent place for those seeking a tranquil trip to Norfolk. The 125 miles of lock-free waterways provide great excursions atop the water, whilst the quaint villages are perfect for strolling along the cobbled streets.
Sheringham is home to colourful beach huts and a heritage line along the steam railway. For those who enjoy a trip to the theatre, a range of watersports and significant annual events like the Viking Festival, Sheringham is a fantastic option.
There are many more towns and villages in Norfolk that all have exceptional scenery and activities to make for a great holiday, it is difficult to narrow it down to just one, but whatever your holiday itinerary, Norfolk won’t disappoint.
Norfolk is famous for its spectacular coastline, miles of sandy beaches, quaint seaside towns and rolling countryside. Perhaps the most famous feature of the county is the Norfolk Broads; one of the largest series of waterways routes in the UK.
There are so many outdoor activities in Norfolk, such as relaxing on the beach, walking the coastline, wildlife spotting, and wandering through the many towns and villages; these activities are free of charge. Your trip to Norfolk can be as expensive or as budget-friendly as you choose, with frequenting restaurants and bars raising the price of your holiday overall. We also have Norfolk cottages to suit every budget, so make sure to use the filter to find your perfect one.
Wells-next-the-Sea is one of the prettiest places to visit in Norfolk. Salt marshes cover the harbour and the town displays a large Georgian Square, making it a beautiful spot.
There are many other pretty towns to visit in Norfolk, with places like Wroxham sitting on the bank of the River Bure and Horning with its waterside location or even Cley, which presents visitors with its charming 18th-century windmill. Whatever town you choose to visit, you will be taken aback by the beauty throughout the county.
