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
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).
Enjoy a relaxing holiday in this lovely barn conversion, which is on a private estate with direct access to the beautiful River Waveney. The pretty market town of Bungay is about a mile away, while the Queen's Head pub in Earsham is even closer. There are footpaths and bike rides from the door, and the cottage is within easy reach of the Norfolk coast, Norwich and attractions like the Flint Vineyard and the Norfolk and Suffolk Railway. Dragonfly Cottage has a spacious bedroom for couples.
A holiday on the Norfolk coast has a timeless appeal. With space for four guests (plus an additional two for occasional use), The Felbrigg is the perfect holiday home for couples or families who want to be close to beaches like Cromer but who want to retreat to a home-away-from-home where they can enjoy peace and privacy at the end of a fun day. The barn conversion is part of Jonas Farm Barns and benefits from the shared heated indoor swimming pool and children's play area. It is a mile from the train station at Roughton, and 2 miles from Cromer's fantastic Grade II listed pier, Blue Flag beach and superb restaurants and pubs. As well as being convenient for beaches like Cromer, Sheringham and all of the North Norfolk coast, The Felbrigg is only a short drive from the heart of the Norfolk Broads National Park and just half an hour from Norwich. Staying in this beautiful barn conversion means you can spend a day on the beach, another bird watching or on forest adventures and another enjoying the city of Norwich. Great reviews from our guests - Don't miss out!
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 within walking distance from Willow Reach Cottage.
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.
Teddy's Retreat is just the perfect dog-friendly holiday cottage. Pretty as a picture, this two bedroom cosy cottage sleeps 4 guests and warmly welcomes up to 5 dogs. With a sunny garden, games barn in the converted dairy, Sky Sports/WiFi and an open fire, it has everything you could wish for in a holiday cottage. Surrounded by glorious North Norfolk countryside there are lovely walks from the front door (including around Sheringham Park which is 5-minutes walk) and has the beaches just two miles away. A true gem of a dog-friendly retreat!
Bel Ami is a spacious lodge overlooking a freshwater lake in West Norfolk. With 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and an open-plan living area, the lodge comfortably sleeps 8 people, making it ideal for family gatherings. Less than a mile from the popular wedding venue of Pentney Abbey, and close to the Sandringham Estate and the historic market towns of Kings Lynn and Swaffham, the location is perfect for exploring the unspoilt Norfolk countryside. The beautiful sandy beaches of the North Norfolk coast are a short drive away.
BimbleBox Barn oozes style and traditional charm and is the perfect choice for families and friends looking to explore Norfolk and its many attractions. Sleeping up to 10 guests in comfort and style, this fabulous barn conversion has a 6 seater hot tub, two log burners, an incredibly social kitchen/diner and a good range of modern conveniences to ensure guest comfort at any time of the year. A mile from the market town of Reepham, there is a pub within walking distance and the Broads and Coast within easy reach by car. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
In an enviable position, this large waterside holiday retreat is located in the beautiful Broadland village of Horning on the Norfolk Broads and is just a stones throw from the river's edge. Tracara affords lovely views over the river and is an ideal place for getting friends and family together for a relaxing break, celebratory weekend or just to use as a base for exploring the areas many attractions.
A cosy 3 bedroom cottage with garden and free parking offering guests a warm welcome and superb value. Relax with the whole family at this peaceful place to stay surrounded by fields and farmland a perfect tranquil retreat yet close enough to the pleasures of East Anglia. A short car journey is the town of Kings Lynn which has a selection of bistros, eateries, shops and a mainline railway station with links to Ely, Cambridge and London Kings Cross. The holiday home features 3 bedrooms, kitchen, cloakroom, dining room, living room, bathroom with shower above. Garden and off road parking Facilities available include equipped kitchen including fridge freezer, microwave, oven and hob, fresh towels and bed linen are supplied. Free wi fi and parking on site. The North Norfolk coast is approximately 30/40 mins drive with plenty to offer for all the family. Located approximately 18 miles from Houghton Hall, 12 miles from Castle Rising Castle and 13 miles from Sandringham House Museum and Grounds.
Welcome to The Halt, Holiday Cottage, Sheringham. We offer 4 bedroom (max 8 persons) self catering holiday let accommodation which is both family friendly and dog friendly. We provide 2 off street parking spaces for two full sized cars. The Halt is walking distance from the Sheringham beach, Sheringham High St and the Heritage Steam Railway (North Norfolk Poppy Line) and close to the many activities surrounding.
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. 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.
Kingfisher Lure is a riverside holiday cottage in the very heart of the Norfolk Broads in the popular village of Wroxham - an excellent location for fishing, sailing, bird watching and exploring both the magical waterways and areas many attractions.
Stylish and modern throughout, this beautifully presented detached waterside retreat is perfectly placed in the heart of Wroxham, one of the Norfolk Broad's most popular villages. Brightside is a great choice for wildlife enthusiasts, fishermen, walkers and those who enjoy being on or beside the water.
A stylish riverside holiday cottage in an enviable position in the very heart of the Norfolk Broads sitting within a private garden right on the bank of the River Bure in Wroxham. With miles of magical waterways to explore and being just ten miles from the Norfolk coastline and the City of Norwich, Sandringham Cottage is the perfect self-catering base for up to four guests from which to explore Norfolk. The private mooring and garden area make this the perfect location for those wishing to enjoy all that the Norfolk Broads has to offer from boating, kayaking, fishing in season to bird watching and photography or just relaxing and watching the world go by.
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.
Popular towns in and around The Norfolk Broads:
AlbyBactonBrancasterBrancaster StaitheBungayClippesbyCromerEast RustonFakenhamHappisburghHeachamHoltHorningHunstantonKing's LynnKings LynnLoddonMundesleyNorwichRockland St MaryRollesbySheringhamStalhamThetfordThorpe MarketUptonWells-next-the-SeaWinterton-on-SeaWroxhamSome 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.
