Norfolk Day Family Fun

Whether you were born in Norfolk, or you consider it your second home, we’re sure you’ll agree there’s plenty to love about life in Nelson’s county.

If you need a reason to celebrate all that is great about living here, Norfolk Day is Wednesday 27th July 2022!

We thought it was a great excuse to share some of our Norfolk Family Favourites. Here are 10 perfect spots to enjoy the beauty of Norfolk – and many are totally free!

 

1. Catch a sunrise on the east coast

Pack a flask, a blanket and a few treats and take an early morning drive out to Great Yarmouth to see the sun rise over the waves. Head to the North Denes dunes where the view is totally unobscured and you can park for free along the side of the road. It’s just a 15-20 minute walk to the pier and town centre for breakfast afterwards.

2. See the cityscape from Mousehold Heath
One of the best views of our fine city is from the top of Mousehold Heath. Just north of the city you’ll find 84-acres of heathland, woodland and recreational open space that’s totally free to explore. There is a free car park outside Norwich Prison. Take a picnic and enjoy the view over Norwich Cathedral and see how many city landmarks you can spot.

3. Go nature hunting in The Broads National Park

We are so lucky to have the Broads on our doorstep. The Broads are home to more than a quarter of Britain’s rarest animals and plants. If you’re lucky you could see a bittern, a water vole, a European eel or a cuckoo on your travels.

4. Try seal spotting

Norfolk is the best place to see Common and Grey Seals and, during the winter months, fluffy pups!
You can see seals all year round at Blakeney Point in North Norfolk. In summer months you can also spot them on the west coast at Hunstanton and in winter try Horsey Gap.

Check out:
Where to see seals

5. Try foods from around the world

Norwich Market is a joy for the senses with the colourful aisles filled with the smell of delicious street food from every type of cuisine. There’s the Taste of Shanghai, China Wok, A Taste of Punjab, Cocina Mia, Falafel and Friends, South East Asian Street Food Emporium, Coral Bay and Churros. Or, if you prefer, there’s always fish, chips and mushy peas!

6. Delve into history

Norwich is blessed with a wealth of history. Visit the Norman Castle, take a tour around our two cathedrals, walk the cobbles of the Elm Hill – arguably Norfolk’s prettiest street – or visit one of the many family-friendly museums.

Check Out:
Museums

7. Parks and Gardens
We have so many open spaces to enjoy. Visit a National Trust property with a day at Blickling Hall or Felbrigg Hall and Gardens or pack a picnic and a kite and take the family to one of the many green spaces in the city. Eaton Park is one of the largest with plenty to see and do; you can play golf, watch model boats bobbing on the lake, walk in the rose garden or visit the cafe. Children will love the play area, skate park and miniature train. For something a little different visit The Plantation Garden on Earlham Road, known locally as ‘the secret garden’.

Check out:
Woodland Walks
Norwich Walks
Parks and Playgrounds

8. Go stargazing

One of the county’s greatest assets is the wide open skies. You don’t have to drive too far from the city to find a spot with no light pollution. Pack a flask and go on an adventure to track down the stars. Wiveton Downs and Kelling Heath Holiday Park have both been awarded Dark Sky Discovery Site status. If you are really lucky you can even spy the Northern Lights here.

9. Catch a Cromer crab

Cromer pier is THE spot to spend a day trying to fill your bucket with nippy crabs. It’s a great activity to pass a couple of hours in the sunshine and once you’ve got your line and bucket, it’s totally free. If you’re after a hot Mumbler tip, we’ve heard bacon is the best bait to fill your bucket.

Or, what about rockpooling?
Recommended by Mumblers: Places to go Rockpooling

10. Watch the sun set

Head out to Hunstanton, the county’s most westerly point, to see the sunset. Grab some fish and chips on the beach, wrap up with a blanket and watch the sun set into the waves.