No. 1
Blakeney and Cley Explore the heart of North Norfolk on the Blakeney to Cley‑next‑the‑Sea Circular Walk (and stop at a rustic country pub or 2).Spend an afternoon wandering the wilds surrounding Blakeney and Cley, and enjoy the stark and haunting beauty of the North Norfolk coast.Take a step back from the bustle of modern life ‑ 7.5 miles of fresh sea air, sweeping views and an abundance of rare wildlife will quickly bring you back in touch with the natural world. It’s a paradise for bird watchers, but if you’re lucky you might spot a few of Blakeney’s fabled grey seals.The hike starts at Blakeney harbour and will take you through the salt marshes at Morston, through to the village of Cley. You will pass Cley’s picturesque windmill on the journey back towards Blakeney church.Once you’ve arrived back into Blakeney, stop at the King’s Arms for a drink at a traditional English country pub or dine at The White Horse ‑ you’ve earned it!
No. 2 Sheringham and the North Norfolk railway Chugging along one of the UK’s five great heritage railways is an experience of pure nostalgia.Journey between two of North Norfolk’s most charismatic towns ‑ Holt and Sheringham ‑ and be treated to serene views, rolling countryside and only the widest of open skies.The Poppy Line, lovingly maintained by a group of local volunteers, is the pinnacle of Victorian craftsmanship.It’s a step back in time that feels authentic, slotting easily into the slow and gentle pace of the North Norfolk coast.Why not try one of the railway’s wildly popular dining trains? They range from evening meals and cream teas to Agatha Christie‑esque murder mysteries.I don’t know about you, but I’m all aboard The Gin Train.
No. 3 The Coastal Exploration Company Set sail on a once in a lifetime coastal adventure. Created and operated by North Norfolk natives,The Coastal Exploration Company offers tailored exploration packages to ‘recharge your soul’ and discover the remote wilderness of the coastline.Taking to the open water on a traditional wooden sailboat, experienced local sailors will guide you on an unforgettable journey meandering across salt marshes, low‑lying creeks and the North Sea itself.For the most adventurous, navigating the desolate remote island of Scolt Head awaits, as well as wild swimming, spear fishing and foraging.If you’d prefer a laid‑back sail to relax and unwind, there’s a bespoke tour for that too. The package includes a delicious fare of locally‑sourced food ‑ whether that’s a full English or tea and cake is entirely up to you.
No. 4 HoltRamble
Through Holt’s assortment of antique stores and boutiques.Holt’s charming maze of alleyways and hidden courtyards lend themselves well to the ramshackle jumble of antique shops and art galleries peppered around the town.Many people flock to Holt in the hopes of finding unique art for their homes, a hand‑crafted item for their home lovingly made or a high quality piece of vintage furniture....Most people find what they’re looking for.Holt has dozens of stores that cater to this ‑ chances are, you’ll unearth a gem in at least one of them!Rummaging around Holt’s fashionable and eclectic choice of stores is all part of the North Norfolk experience.Of the many shops and boutiques to explore, here are just a few of my faves:
Norfolk Natural Living Make Holt Sprout Scout Verandah Holt Antiques & Interiors Centre Vintage with Vogue Cobwebs Mews Antiques Emporium Bakers & LarnersGalleries:Utopia:The Unexpected Gallery The Gallery Holt Ltd Bircham Gallery
No. 5 Wells‑next‑the‑sea and Holkham Escape into the quaint harbour town of Wells and drift away for an afternoon on the golden sands of its award‑winning beach.The pristine expanse of sand stretches for miles, and is framed by a nature reserve of towering pine trees and rare flora.Bring your paddleboards and canoes, and embrace the wild adventure of a completely unspoiled section of England’s coastline!The eccentricity of Norfolk is plain to see in Wells; this sleepy town gives you the opportunity to become an Alpaca Trekker for the day.Once you have finished your revitalising day at the beach and part‑time job as an alpaca trekker, why not try some local seafood? The Crab House has a seasonal menu and seafood so fresh that it might just run off your plate! The Victoria Inn in Holkham is located opposite the beach and is a dog friendly treasure to relax after long sandy walks.
No. 6
Wiveton Hall ‑ fruit picking
Wander between the thriving strawberry and raspberry fields of Wiveton Hall, and embrace the rustic countryside pastime of picking your own fruit.The Jacobean Manor is a charming 17th Century country house and gardens, sitting between Blakeney and Cley with spectacular views of the coast.You might recognise the house from the BBC’s ‘Normal for Norfolk’, which followed eccentric gentlemanly farmer Desmond Mccarthy in his daily life around Wiveton Hall.From July to September, Wiveton opens a Giant Maize Maze ‑ perfect for kids on their Summer break!The Hall also has an incredibly popular café, where you can indulge in an assortment of delicious homemade dishes. Many of the ingredients come straight from the farm itself!
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