Top 10 Things To Do With Kids North Norfolk
Introduction to North Norfolk
North Norfolk is a great destination in East Anglia for the whole family, offering a range of activities and attractions that cater to all ages and interests.
The north Norfolk coast is home to stunning beaches, nature reserves, and historic houses, making it an ideal location for family holidays.
From outdoor adventures to indoor play centers, North Norfolk has something for everyone, including award-winning attractions, theme parks, and plenty of family fun. North Norfolk is perfect for planning a family day out, with activities and attractions for all ages.
Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens, stunning gardens, nature trails, and wildlife of the Norfolk Broads, or take a boat trip to spot seals and other marine life. Scheduled boat trips are available for families to explore the coast and spot wildlife together.
With its rich history and cultural heritage, North Norfolk is also home to numerous museums, galleries, and stately houses, including Holkham Hall and Felbrigg Hall.
Beaches and Coastal Activities on the North Norfolk Coast
The north Norfolk coast boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, including those at Wells-next-the-Sea, Hunstanton, and Cromer. Wells Harbour is a bustling hub offering family-friendly activities like crabbing, scenic harbour walks, and access to local shops.
Families can enjoy a range of coastal activities, such as swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball, or take a leisurely walk along the beach and enjoy the stunning views.
For those looking for something more adventurous, there are opportunities for water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, or visitors can take a boat trip to explore the tidal creeks and spot wildlife. You can also join a boat trip to Blakeney Point to see the famous seal colonies; these trips are scheduled according to tide times for the best viewing experience.
The beaches in North Norfolk are also home to a range of amenities, including gift shops, coffee shops, and restaurants serving delicious food, as well as convenient car parks. Special mention should be made of the car park at Wells-next-the-Sea, which offers easy access to the beach and nearby shops.
Outdoor Adventures
North Norfolk is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning countryside, nature reserves, and historic houses offering a range of activities for all ages. Pensthorpe Nature Reserve is an award-winning attraction for nature lovers, offering trails, lakes, bird watching, and pond dipping sessions for children to explore aquatic life. Norfolk Lavender, the oldest lavender farm in England, is a fragrant and educational stop for families. North Norfolk is also home to several animal centres where children can interact with farm animals and learn about wildlife. In addition, North Norfolk features adventure parks with themed outdoor activities, making them a hit with families seeking excitement.
Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and nature trails of the Holkham Estate, or take a guided tour of the Norfolk Broads and spot wildlife such as birds and otters. Other stately homes worth visiting include Houghton Hall, once home to Britain’s first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole, renowned for its art collection, formal gardens, and historic walled garden, as well as Blickling Hall and Felbrigg Hall, each with their own beautiful gardens and walled gardens.
For the more adventurous, there are opportunities for high ropes courses, ropes course, zip wires, and other outdoor activities, such as cycling and horse riding. Weasenham Woods also features outdoor play areas and a dedicated play area for children, including specific zones for smaller kids, ensuring safe and enjoyable play for toddlers and younger children, making it ideal for families.
The Walsingham Light Railway and the North Norfolk Railway are popular steam railways, offering scenic steam train journeys through the countryside. These steam railways provide a nostalgic and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Wroxham Barns is a must-visit, with its junior farm, craft studios, and a variety of shops and activities for families.
Museums and Galleries
North Norfolk offers a fantastic selection of museums and galleries that are perfect for families looking for fun and educational experiences, especially on a rainy day. The Muckleburgh Collection near Weybourne is a highlight for history enthusiasts, featuring the UK’s largest privately owned working Military Museum with an impressive display of military vehicles and equipment. The museum also showcases exhibits on air defence systems and radar technology, emphasizing their historical importance in national security and military operations. In Cromer, the RNLI Henry Blogg Museum brings the town’s heroic lifeboat history to life through interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. Art lovers won’t want to miss the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts in Norwich, where you can explore a world-class art gallery filled with fascinating artifacts and contemporary works. The Norfolk Museums Service also offers a variety of family-friendly destinations, including the Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery, originally built as a royal palace by the Normans, which combines art, history, and hands-on activities and adds to the city's historical and cultural significance. Many of these museums and galleries feature welcoming coffee shops, gift shops, and dedicated play areas, making them ideal places for families to visit and enjoy a memorable day out in North Norfolk, whatever the weather.
Indoor Activities for Rainy Days
Rainy days in North Norfolk don’t have to put a damper on your family fun. This region is packed with fantastic indoor activities and attractions that ensure the whole family can enjoy a memorable day out, whatever the weather.
One of the top spots for a rainy day adventure is the Sea Life Aquarium in Hunstanton. Here, you can immerse yourself in the wonders of marine life, from graceful rays and curious sea turtles to mesmerizing sharks. The aquarium’s interactive exhibits are perfect for kids, and there’s a well-stocked gift shop and a cozy coffee shop for a relaxing break. It’s a great destination for families looking to learn more about the sea life of the north Norfolk coast.
For energetic kids, adventure parks and indoor play areas are a must. Hootz House at Pensthorpe Natural Park is a hit with families, offering a vibrant indoor play area where children can climb, slide, and explore. The park also features outdoor play areas, nature trails, and a junior farm, making it a versatile choice for all ages. If your family loves a challenge, head to Weasenham Woods for the Extreeme Outdoor Adventure ropes course. With high ropes, wobbly wires, and a variety of obstacles, it’s an award-winning attraction that promises excitement for both kids and adults.
Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy indoors as well. The Norfolk Broads and local nature reserves like Titchwell Marsh and Cley Marshes offer guided tours and interactive exhibits, allowing families to discover the region’s wildlife and habitats even when it’s wet outside. These nature reserves are perfect for learning about birds, otters, and seals, and often feature indoor visitor centers with educational displays.
If you’re seeking a more relaxed day, North Norfolk’s stately houses are a wonderful option. Holkham Hall, Felbrigg Hall, and Blickling Hall each offer a unique glimpse into the region’s history, with beautiful gardens, art galleries, and delicious food served in their cafes. The Holkham Estate is especially popular, combining stunning architecture with family-friendly activities and scenic walks.
For a truly unique experience, visit the largest indoor modelling attraction in the UK, located in Great Yarmouth. Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the intricate model boats, trains, and cars on display. The town also boasts a range of other indoor activities, from crazy golf and bowling to classic amusement arcades—perfect for keeping everyone entertained on a rainy day.
As evening falls, North Norfolk’s cultural scene comes alive. Catch a show at the historic Cromer Pier, enjoy a concert at Norwich Cathedral, or see a family-friendly performance at the King’s Lynn Corn Exchange. These venues offer a variety of productions, from musicals to plays, all set in beautiful surroundings.
No matter the weather, North Norfolk is a great destination for families. With its award-winning attractions, indoor activities, and welcoming parks, you’ll find plenty to keep everyone happy—rain or shine. So pack your raincoat and get ready to explore all that this stunning region has to offer!
