Child-friendly Breaks In Norfolk
Norfolk, located on the east coast of England, is a fantastic place for a family-friendly break. With miles of stunning coastline, beautiful countryside, and plenty of fun activities for children of all ages, Norfolk offers an unforgettable holiday experience. Here are some of the best things to do on child-friendly breaks in Norfolk.
Self-Catering Holidays
One of the best ways to experience Norfolk is by staying in a self-catering holiday property. This option gives you the freedom to explore the county at your own pace and on your schedule. For a hassle-free and enjoyable stay, don’t miss our 14 Self-Catering Tips And Tricks, packed with helpful advice to make the most of your holiday.
Exploring The Outdoors
Children will love exploring the great outside on a self-catering holiday in Norfolk. The Freedom for you and your family to explore wide open areas and gorgeous landscapes.
Children will learn so much from the natural world that is surrounding them in Norfolk. Rock pooling along Norfolk's shore, meandering along trails in search of wildlife, Pond dipping at the water's edge and playing pooh sticks beneath one of the county's many river bridges are all activities that children love.
Visit The Beaches
Norfolk has over 90 miles of beautiful coastline, which means there are plenty of beaches to explore. Whether you want to build sandcastles, paddle in the sea, or go rock-pooling, you'll find a beach that's perfect for your family. Some of the most popular beaches in Norfolk include Cromer Beach, Hunstanton Beach, Wells-next-the-Sea Beach, and Great Yarmouth Beach.
Explore The Norfolk Broads
The Norfolk Broads is a vast network of rivers and lakes, which makes it the perfect place for boating, fishing, and wildlife spotting. There are plenty of boat hire companies that offer family-friendly boats, including canoes, kayaks, and motorboats. You can also take a guided boat tour or join a wildlife safari to see otters, kingfishers, and other wildlife up close.
Visit The Zoos And Wildlife Parks
Norfolk has some fantastic zoos and wildlife parks, which are great for animal-loving children.
Banham Zoo
Banham Zoo is a fantastic destination for families, offering an exciting mix of wildlife encounters, educational exhibits, and interactive activities. Home to over 2,000 animals, including tigers, giraffes, and lemurs, the zoo provides a thrilling experience for children and adults alike.
Visitors can enjoy daily animal feeding talks, bird of prey displays, and the opportunity to get up close with some of their favourite creatures. The zoo also features a farm barn, a large adventure play area, and a sky trek for older children looking for an adrenaline-filled activity.
With its dedication to conservation and education, Banham Zoo makes for an enriching and fun day out for the whole family.
Wroxham Barns
Wroxham Barns is a fantastic destination for families looking for a mix of fun, learning, and hands-on experiences. This popular attraction features a junior farm where children can meet and feed animals, as well as enjoy interactive activities like bottle-feeding lambs and grooming ponies.
The on-site fun park offers rides, trampolines, and adventure golf, ensuring hours of entertainment. There are also craft studios where kids can try their hand at pottery painting and other creative activities.
With a café serving delicious homemade treats and a variety of independent shops, Wroxham Barns is a great spot for a family-friendly day out.
Amazona Zoo
Amazona Zoo in Cromer is a hidden gem offering an exciting experience for families interested in South American wildlife. The zoo is home to a variety of fascinating animals, including jaguars, monkeys, flamingos, and tapirs.
Kids will love the interactive play areas, including an outdoor adventure playground and an indoor soft play area. The zoo also focuses on conservation and education, with informative displays about the Amazon rainforest and its inhabitants. With its diverse range of animals and engaging activities, Amazona Zoo is a great choice for a fun and educational family day out.
Go On A Treasure Hunt
Norfolk has a rich history, and there are plenty of hidden treasures to discover. You can join a treasure hunt, like the Great Yarmouth treasure hunt where you'll follow clues and solve puzzles to find hidden treasures.
Castles To Visit
Norfolk is home to a captivating array of castles perfect for children who love history and adventure. Norwich Castle, located in the heart of the city, is a magnificent Norman structure that now serves as a museum and art gallery, showcasing fascinating archaeology, natural history, and fine art exhibits. Castle Rising, located near King's Lynn is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England. The ruins of Baconsthorpe Castle, nestled in a tranquil countryside setting, provide a picturesque spot for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
These castles, with their tales of conquest, royalty, and rebellion, make Norfolk a must-visit destination for history buffs and curious travellers.
Stateley Homes
Norfolk boasts an impressive collection of stately homes, each brimming with history, architectural grandeur, and stunning grounds. Sandringham House, the royal family’s country retreat, allows visitors to explore its opulent rooms and beautifully landscaped gardens. Holkham Hall, a Palladian masterpiece, is surrounded by a vast deer park and features an array of events and activities throughout the year.
These stately homes provide a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making them must-see destinations in Norfolk.
Amusement Parks
Norfolk has plenty of funfair-style amusement parks, which are perfect for children of all ages. Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach is one of the most popular amusement parks in the region, with plenty of rides and attractions for all ages. And if your children love water parks, be sure to visit Splash in Sheringham, where they can enjoy water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool.
Museums To Visit
Norfolk has some fantastic museums, which are both educational and fun. The Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell is a great place to learn about the history of the city, while the Time and Tide Museum in Great Yarmouth is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history. The RAF Air Defence Radar Museum, located in Neatishead, offers a fascinating insight into the world of radar technology.
Gardens And Parks
Norfolk has some stunning gardens and parks that are perfect for a family day out. The Blickling Estate, located near Aylsham, has over 55 acres of gardens and parkland, as well as a beautiful Jacobean house to explore. Holkham Hall, located near Wells-next-the-Sea, has a stunning walled garden, a lake, and woodland walks. And if you want to get closer to nature, be sure to visit Pensthorpe Natural Park, which has a variety of habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, and meadows.
Bike Riding
Norfolk has some fantastic cycle routes, which are perfect for families who love to cycle. The Marriott's Way, which runs between Norwich and Aylsham, is a disused railway line that's been converted into a cycle path. The Norfolk Coast Cycleway, which runs between King's Lynn and Great Yarmouth, offers stunning views of the coast. If you want to explore the countryside, be sure to try the Peddars Way, which runs from Thetford to Hunstanton.
Treating Your Little Ones
Treat your little ones by looking at some Norfolk days out that are suitable for all the family. Popular places such as the Pleasure Beach, the Sea Life Centre and Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens in Great Yarmouth, Banham Zoo in Banham, the Dinosaur Adventure Park in Lenwade and Pettitts Adventure Park in Reedham are all very popular with children. Wroxham's Miniature Worlds is also very entertaining. You'll always be able to discover something close to Swallowdale Holiday Home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Norfolk offers a fantastic destination for families looking for a memorable holiday experience. From exploring the great outdoors to visiting beaches, castles, museums, and zoos, there is a wide range of child-friendly activities to enjoy. With stunning coastlines, beautiful countryside, and plenty of opportunities to learn about nature and history, Norfolk provides endless opportunities for fun and adventure. Whether you're looking for an action-packed holiday or a relaxing break, Norfolk has something to offer for everyone. So start planning your family-friendly break today and create memories that will last a lifetime.
