Top 10 reasons to visit Norfolk with your loved one
Why Norfolk is the perfect destination for a couples holiday
North Norfolk is a hugely romantic, quaint and charming county just a few hours north of London, making it an ideal short break for couples!
North Norfolk is an amazing place to visit at any time of year (even if we say so ourselves!) The county is known for its variety of beaches, rural villages, fresh seafood and gastro pubs and tranquillity, making it a firm favourite with many families, BUT it isn’t just for families!
It’s a hugely romantic, quaint and charming county just a few hours north of London, making it an ideal short break for couples. Whether it’s a romantic beach proposal, some quiet time to switch off and relax or a last-minute escape with the ones who matter the most, we’re positive you will find the perfect Norfolk cottage to suit your taste (and budget).
1. History
North Norfolk is a hive of history. Around every corner, you’ll find something (or someone) that holds a story. Places such as Cromer Pier and the Poppy Line railway are amazing places to visit if history is something that fascinates you and your partner.
2. Art and Culture
North Norfolk has one of the biggest artist communities in the UK. There are copious art galleries, antique shops, theatres, exhibitions and more. The area inspires many artists and hosts hundreds of rural retreats. If you love a spot of Banksy then we’re sure you will already know about his recent escapades titled ‘Great British Spraycation’ around the Norfolk coastline over the Covid lockdown. Lowestoft, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth and Cromer are where you can find his artwork and make for a great day exploring (even if they aren’t quite in the north Norfolk postcode!) You may like to check out our Cromer cottages if this is something which takes your fancy!
3. Eating and drinking
If there is one thing that north Norfolk is known for it is the number of incredible places to eat and drink, with a lot of the produce that is used in the restaurants being locally sourced. Being a large farming and fishing county there is plenty of local foods to enjoy! (Do we even need to mention the Cromer crab?). Whilst there are many family-friendly pubs, there are some incredible higher-end restaurants which are well-loved (and therefore very busy!).
4. Wildlife
North Norfolk has a vast variety of wildlife. Due to having the sea, the broads and the countryside, there is so much wildlife to enjoy and pursue. Places like Horsey in the Winter is the best place to see the seals and the seal pups, whilst the Cley marshes are a natural (and famous) habitat for hundreds of birds. Why not hire a boat along the broads to take in the magical waterways and tranquil scenery? – visit over the winter and you’ll be able to experience how peaceful Norfolk truly is.
5. Beaches
We couldn’t really write a list of the top reasons to visit and forget the beaches … could we!? Norfolk has an incredible variety of beach types, from pebbled beaches in the east to the more wide, golden sands heading towards the west – it has it all. A sunset stroll across the beach – what could be more romantic?
6. Walks
If walks are your thing then Norfolk is the place to be. It holds the reputation of being a walking county with miles and miles of walking trails to explore. One of our favourites is Holt Country Park – ideal if you’re staying in one of our Holt cottages!
7. Shopping
North Norfolk has some of the best independent shops and businesses the UK has to offer – Fact! The likes of Burnham Market, Holt, Sheringham and Cromer are full of amazing local makers. From jewellery to clothing, homewares and more – there is something for everyone, and who knows maybe something for that special person in your life. Pair your shopping with cake and coffee in one of many cafes/farm shops, then head back to your cottage to put your feet up and spend a relaxing evening together.
8. Halls and Stately Homes
There’s nothing better than soaking in some local history together whilst gazing at incredible architecture and landscaping at one of North Norfolk’s stately homes and halls. Our top picks would be Holkham Hall, Felbrigg Hall and Blickling Hall – all of which have huge parklands to explore, cafes, shops and a great annual events calendar.
9. Drive through the small towns and villages
The nooks and crannies of North Norfolk are something not to be missed. Visiting, or simply just driving through, these small towns and villages is a day out in itself. Try heading west from Sheringham along the A149 coast road towards Hunstanton. Discover these hidden gems together and make memories to last a lifetime.
10. Photography
It doesn’t matter if you are an amateur, do it for a hobby or for a living, north Norfolk is filled with opportunities for photography. The beaches and the countryside can make great photos, and if you are visiting during the festive period, don’t miss capturing the smaller villages’ Christmas light displays. The sunsets and sunrises are spectacular in north Norfolk, as is the night sky due to the limited light pollution. If stargazing is your thing then we would recommend a trip to Kelling Heath as it has been awarded a ‘Dark Sky Discovery Site’ status in September 2017. A night out with the stars, some good food from a local deli, a blanket and of course … your loved one, what a perfect evening.
We could keep going as North Norfolk is a truly magical, remote and peaceful part of the country and one which we know you will love and enjoy together. If you’re in need of some time out with your loved one then make sure North Norfolk is at the top of your list to explore. We have plenty of Romantic cottages for two and offer short breaks away from peak season dates, if you would like to bring your pup too we have lots of dog-friendly cottages to choose from.
Visit North Norfolk together – you won’t regret it!
Hugs,
The Norfolk Cottage Agency team
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