Being based in Norfolk, we are so lucky to have beautiful areas to visit with our four-legged family members. Our Account Handler Harriet has been out and about across Norfolk this year and has put together a list of her top 10 recommendations, with some help from little Milo the Jack Russel.
10. Oxburgh Hall
Oxburgh Hall is a beautiful National Trust site located in Oxborough. The stunning castle was built over 500 years ago for the Bedingfield family, and is surrounded by a large moat and acres of stunning parkland. Although you cant take your dogs within the castle, there is plenty to see and do outside. The site also has a café, shop and is near a popular pub called the Bedingfeld Arms.
Oxburgh Estate | Norfolk | National Trust
9. Roydon Common
With over 400 acres of scenic nature to explore, you wouldn’t realise you were just a stone’s throw away from a bustling town. Although Roydon Common is a popular dog walking spot, dogs wont be the only animal you see! Grazing cattle, wild ponies and an array of wildlife call Roydon Common their home, and if you choose to visit in August you will be treated to the wonderful display of heather that is in flower during this time.
Roydon Common and Tony Hallatt Memorial Reserve | Norfolk Wildlife Trust
8. Shouldham Warren
Shouldham Warren is a large wooded area, which really comes alive during Autumn with its beautiful colours. The Warren consists of two walks, one just under a mile, and a second which is 2.5 miles. If you choose to do the longer walk you will be rewarded with some stunning views of open fenland and the woods around you.
Shouldham Warren | Explore West Norfolk
7. Blickling Estate
The enormous Blickling estate is home to over 4600 acres of parkland to explore. You name it, this park has it. A lake, woodland, large areas of grass, walking tracks, and even a mausoleum! Once you have finished exploring everything this park has to offer, you can visit the café they have on site, or alternatively go to the Bucks Pub which sits just on the edge of the park.
Blickling Estate | Norfolk | National Trust
6.Holkham Hall
Surrounded by the glorious views of the hall, a lake, woodland, and various architecture, the magnificent Holkham hall is a feast for the eyes. The park stretches over 3000 acres, so plenty of room to burn off energy. If you are lucky you will see the beautiful herd of deer that freely roam the park, as well as a variety of wildlife and flowers. If this isn’t enough, you can also enjoy spectacular nature reserve and beach that sits just across the road, with the new boardwalk that runs from Queen Annes Drive to the start of Holkham beach. With plenty to do and see, Holkham is definitely a day out to remember.
Holkham Hall & Estate | Norfolk, England
5.Sandringham
A royal house that is not just fit for kings, but also our four legged friends too! The Royal Parkland features 20,000 acres of woodland, paths (both marked and unmarked), a children’s play area, and also a 20 point orienteering trail for you to follow! On Saturday mornings you can also take part in a ‘Park Run’ with your dog, a 5km run/walk around a well marked track. After all that walking you will be sure to build up an appetite, so don’t forget to visit the Sandringham café and shop to get some royally good souvenirs.
4.Felbrigg Hall
520 acres of woodland encompasses this wonderful park, with a 17th century hall overlooking the spectacular grounds. There is an array of different tree varieties, including beech, oak, and sycamore. Keep an eye out for the Victory V, which was planted in honour of a gentleman who died during WW2. Felbrigg also has a lake, a church and an assortment of wildlife.
Felbrigg Hall, Gardens and Estate |Norfolk | National Trust
3. Wells Next The Sea – NR23 1DR (Wells Beach Car Park)
This stunning seaside town is nestled on the North Norfolk Coast, right next door to Holkham. It is one of the few locations in the country where a pinewood forest sits on the beach, mixing the two habitats beautifully together. If you decide to park down by the beach, once you have explored the wonderful sights that will greet you along the coastline, walk the 1 mile track into the town and treat yourself to some fish and chips or ice cream. You can also go crabbing along the quay!
Wells-next-the-Sea - Visitor Guide, Beach Info &Holiday Accommodation
2. Norfolk Coastal Path
One of the best things about the wonderful county of Norfolk are our stunning beaches and coast lines. With 40 to choose from, you are bound to find at least one that takes your breath away. Not only do we pride ourselves in what each individual coastal town or village has to offer, we also have long coastal paths that connect various beaches and towns to one another, making it a joy to explore. Blakeney to Cromer (15 miles), Cromer to Mundesley (8 miles), Brancaster to Wells (13 miles) just to name a few. Watch out for the three miles of shingle beach from Weybourne to Cley!
Plan The Norfolk Coast Path - Norfolk Coast Path
1. Castle Acre
Not far from the market town of Swaffham, sits the beautifully quaint little village of Castle Acre. Despite being small in size, it has a church, a playing field, fish and chip shop, a café, and a pub. There are plenty of walks to do in and around the village to take in the sights, with a popular one being to walk down past the priory towards the river Nar. If you follow the path you will eventually arrive at the next village, West Acre. On this short trip you will be able to walk through some pretty wooded areas and commons, all whilst walking alongside a crystal clear river. You will also be able to observe the local rewilding efforts that have been put in place. When you arrive at West Acre you can find a local pub, a brewery, a theatre, and a couple of popular fords to cool off in. Castle Acre’s most popular attractions however are the ruins of the castle and the priory, both sat on opposite sides of the village.
Castle Acre: Castle Acre Priory | English Heritage