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
Whether you want to simply relax by the river or get out and about exploring the magical waterways and Norfolk's many attractions, this comfortable holiday home is a perfect choice. Enjoy a waterside position in the popular Broadland village of Wroxham with pubs, restaurants and shops a short stroll away.
Cleat Cottage is in the quiet hamlet of Cockthorpe with sea views in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty a few miles from Wells-next-the-Sea and the beautiful beaches of the North Norfolk Coast. It is ideal for couples or families as it sleeps four/five people in two bedrooms and is dog friendly, with a garden and off-street parking. There are lovely walks from the village, including routes to Stiffkey, Morston, and Blakeney. Cromer, Sheringham and Holkham are all within easy reach, as are favourite attractions like Sandringham, Norfolk Lavender, and SEA LIFE Hunstanton.
This unique property, has its own private indoor pool and hot tub. Open all year round, the perfect place for your Norfolk holiday. Imagine being able to swim in privacy no matter what the weather. Lavender Lodge is a beautifully furnished holiday home with a heated indoor swimming pool and an outdoor hot tub. It sleeps six people in three ensuite bedrooms, one of which has a wheelchair accessible wetroom and a super-kingsized bed. Decorated in December for Christmas. Short breaks available off peak, prices vary to suit your perfect holiday.
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.
Lazy Daze is a newly updated holiday chalet on the family-friendly California Sands holiday park in Norfolk, offering relaxed self-catering accommodation for up to four guests. This two-bedroom chalet near Great Yarmouth sits within easy reach of the beach and a range of on-site facilities that include a swimming pool, entertainment club and gym. A great base for couples and families, it combines simple, comfortable living with access to classic seaside attractions. This holiday rental in Norfolk is well placed for exploring Hemsby, the Norfolk Broads and miles of sandy coastline stretching in both directions.
You won't want to go home after holidaying in this gorgeous waterfront property in the delightful village of Horning. With a private hot tub, outdoor kitchen, and a large garden that leads down to the river, Whispering Reeds Cottage is the perfect retreat for couples and families looking to explore the Norfolk Broads. Whether you are looking for a new adventure each day, or you simply want to relax in beautiful surroundings, the Norfolk Broads is a fantastic location for a holiday at any time of the year. This impressive self-catering holiday home sleeps six guests in three bedrooms and two well behaved dogs are welcome too.
Violet Cottage Kelling is a seductive beauty in a quiet village location close to the Norfolk Heritage Coast. It's perfect for couples and families with older children, as it sleeps four people in two bedrooms but, because it has two bathrooms, it also works well for friends. The cottage is in Kelling, three miles from Holt and within easy reach of the beautiful coast at Weybourne and Salthouse. There is plenty to do whether you want to explore the varied North Norfolk coastline, cycle through the quiet countryside, shop in pretty market towns, enjoy local attractions at Wells-next-the-Sea, Cley, Sheringham or Cromer, tour stately homes and parks or visit Norwich for a day out. The cottage is available for bookings from March to December; we welcome children aged 7+ and up to two medium-sized dogs.
Meadow Brown is a spacious, comfortable and welcoming 3 Bedroom cottage sleeping up to 5 guests located in East Ruston, North Norfolk. The cottage is ideally situated only a short drive from the stunning Norfolk Coast and the beautiful Norfolk Broads, with picturesque walks from the property including access to Weavers Way. Meadow Brown Cottage is a perfect all seasons base to explore the area, with it's tranquil lake setting, guests will enjoy a relaxing holiday with a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature. The Cottage is perfect for couples and families, its ground floor Single Bedroom, Shower Room and Toilet means it is also suitable for a guest with reduced mobility.
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 (although sadly closed at present) 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 a village pub(although sadly closed at present). The Aviation Museum is 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
Orchard View is a single-storey holiday cottage offering 4-Star Gold accommodation for couples with well-behaved dogs welcome. It's in the grounds of The Old Rectory in Flixton, two miles from Bungay and within easy reach of the Norfolk Broads, beaches like Southwold and Lowestoft, and the medieval city of Norwich. It's a wonderful location for walking, cycling, fishing, and boating, starting with the picturesque seven-acre grounds with gentle views of fields and countryside. Bookings are available all year round, with short breaks possible depending on availability.
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 (sadly closed at present) 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
Lovely south facing, groundfloor cottage in the small village of Wiveton. Sleeps four in two bedrooms. Ideal for two guests wanting that extra bit of space or for a family of four during the holidays. Spacious kitchen/dining with an Aga (winter months only). Lovely sitting room which opens out through French doors to the sunny terrace area. Open fire - wood provided. Huge master bedroom with super king size bed and fitted cupboards. Twin bedroom. Bathroom and separate shower room.
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.
This delightful waterside cottage sits an enviable position in the Peninsula Marina on the banks of the River Bure in the popular village of Wroxham, the 'capital of the Norfolk Broads'. Within walking distance of the village's many amenities and an ideal self-catering base for exploring the area's many attractions and magical waterways.
Peterstone Lodge overlooks the Holkham Estate, only 2 minutes walk into the park and close to the award-winning Holkham Beach. Midway between Burnham Market and Wells-Next-The-Sea. Peterstone Lodge is a “dog friendly” chic, North Norfolk coastal retreat.
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 12 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 Norfolk:
AlbyAttleboroughAylshamBactonBanhamBergh AptonBlakeneyBrancasterBrancaster StaitheBrundallBungayBurgh St PeterBurnham MarketClippesbyCorpustyCromerDerehamDissDownham MarketEast RustonFakenhamGreat SnoringGreat YarmouthHappisburghHeachamHicklingHigh KellingHoltHorningHunstantonKing's LynnKings LynnLitchamLoddonLowestoftMundesleyNectonNorfolk BroadsNorfolk/Suffolk BordersNorth WalshamNorwichRockland St MaryRollesbyRushallSalhouseScratbySea PallingSheringhamSnettishamStalhamStokesbySutton StaitheThetfordThorpe MarketTibenhamUptonWells Next The SeaWells-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.
