North Norfolk is alive with activities for kids and grown-up kids alike. Take summer picnics and build sandcastles on beaches visited by Hollywood stars (think Keira Knightley, Gwyneth Paltrow, Natalie Portman); hop on a boat from Morston Quay to visit England’s largest grey seal colony at Blakeney Point or ride the rails of the steam trains of the North Norfolk and Mid-Norfolk Railways.
Who will scream the loudest on the tandem zipwire at Go Ape in Thetford Forest or master the twists and turns of the segway trail? Run wild at Bewilderwood – a curious treehouse adventure with walkways and a Skymaze. Look out for Twiggles, Boggles and Crocklebogs.
There’s a choice of zoos: Banham with big cats, rare birds and baboons and Amazona where you can get up close to tropical South African animals.
There’s plenty of children’s trails and activities in the many National Trust Houses and stately homes which pepper the area or take a trip to Norwich Castle, one of the largest Norman keeps in England, and discover over 1000 years of history.
There’s action and adventure to be found or relaxing rambles for those seeking a more solace with coastline, castles and cathedrals to explore. If pottering around shops is your desire, make Burnham Market your destination; nicknamed Chelsea-on-Sea, lose yourself in the village’s trendy boutiques and antique shops.
Hire bikes and make the most of this flat county to boost your Strava times. If you’re after a four-wheeled adrenaline rush, try Thunder Thursdays at Anglia Karting. Book a tasting at the Burn Valley Vineyard for its Solaris and Marsh Red wines or take a trip to Woodforde’s Brewery to discover traditional ales like Wherry and modern beers such as Voltage.
Looking for history? Enjoy the royal parkland around Sandringham, the private country retreat to King Charles III and Queen Camilla. There’s National Trust in abundance here too with the impressive Halls of Blickling, Felbrigg and Oxburgh amongst others. If you enjoy watching the sport of kings, go racing at Fakenham or for golf, try a round at the Royal West Norfolk between Brancaster Bay and the salt marshes.
