Norfolk Countryside and Villages

Woodlands, hedgerows and bounteous farmland make for a majestic countryside perfect for a relaxing holiday far from the madding crowd. Delve into this picturesque landscape and you’ll uncover a rich tapestry of country life, from village fetes and harvest festivals, to cricket on the green and autumnal bonfire celebrations. It’s this nod to times past, ancient traditions and the sense of rural community that makes Norfolk so special.

Steeples punctuate vistas at every turn, which isn’t surprising with Norfolk boasting more ancient churches than any other county in the country. In fact, 659 medieval churches still stand tall waiting to greet you. We recommend calling into the churches at Salthouse, Salle, Cley, Sandringham and Burnham Thorpe, to name but a few. The area is also rich in manor houses, walled estates, grand houses and castle and abbey ruins. Blickling, Felbrigg, Wolterton and Manningtree all have a story to tell, as does Castle Acre to the south of the county. 

For a long time Norfolk was the country’s agricultural capital, and the legacy is still evident today. North Norfolk is the perfect planting ground for malting barley, which means it’s plentiful in micro-breweries. Farmers Markets fill the weekend calendar year-round - Creake Abbey with its 60 plus stall holders is one of our favourites.  You’ll also discover weekly markets, honesty boxes, farm shops and food halls as you travel around the county. It’s a foodie’s dream.

And if that’s not enough, you have the Brecks and Thetford Forest on your doorstep. Rich in natural history, it is also excellent for car-free and adventurous cycling, walking and families (Highlodge is home to Go Ape as well as various climbing and interactive stops dotted throughout the forest). Whilst there, pop into Swaffham, which is really starting to establish itself as a foodie capital.