Days Out in North Norfolk

Within easy reach of Oxnead there are numerous activities to keep everyone happy. Whether you enjoy walking, water sports, visiting historic houses and gardens, shopping, eating out or exploring the coastline Oxnead is the perfect location.

The North Norfolk Coast

North Norfolk has recently been cited as one of the top 10 places in the world to go on holiday, and is renowned for its stunning coastline. With 45 miles of unspoilt coast and beaches, amazing wildlife, rolling countryside and beautiful market towns, it has something for everyone to enjoy. Highlights include Holkham, Wells next the Sea, Burnham Market, Blakeney point, Cromer and Sherringham. Nearest to Oxnead are Sea Palling which offers a variety of water sports including windsurfing and jet skiing, and Waxham which is a secluded beach hidden behind sand dunes, where grey seals can be seen in the sea and on the beach.

The Norfolk Broads

The famous Norfolk Broads are a network of rivers and lakes which were formed in the Middle Ages as a result of peat working. The Broads cover over 300 square kilometres and include 7 rivers and 63 lakes or Broads. The area is now a national park and over 125 miles of it is navigable on lock free waterways set in beautiful countryside. There are many options for enjoying the Broads by boat, including day boats, canoes, motor cruiser and sailing boats. Alternatively take a tour on one of the Broads ferries or charter a traditional wherry.

Seal Trips

Taking a trip out by boat to see the seals is a spectacle you will never forget! A number of companies operate boat trips out to Blakeney Point where grey seals can be seen is great quantities basking in the sun and playing in the water. Common seals have their pups between June and August and grey seals have theirs in November and December. Wrap up warmly for an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Heritage and History

There are a number of historic houses which are well worth a visit in North Norfolk. Blickling Hall is a National Trust property dating from 1616, and offers a café, shops and country walks as well as the beautiful house. Felbrigg Hall is a hidden gem dating back to the 15^th centry, surrounded by gardens and extensive parkland. Houghton Hall, Holkham, Mannington, Hindringham and Oxburgh are all within easy reach of Oxnead. And a visit to Sandringham, the royal family’s country residence is essential! There are also numerous museums, gardens and ancient ruins to feast your eyes on.

Canoeing

One of the best ways to explore the Norfolk Broads and the River Bure is by canoe. See kingfishers, bitterns, swans and otters in the beautiful quiet waterways. Choose between a guided canoe trail, an overnight bushcraft trail, or hire a canoe from Buxton just 2 miles from Oxnead to explore the river unaccompanied. There are various canoe hire companies operating in Norfolk throughout the year.

The Bure Valley Railway

Walk from your cottage to the nearest request stop for the train at Brampton and take the narrow guage railway through the countryside and along the River Bure to Wroxham or Aylsham where you can spend the day exploring the town before returning to Oxnead without ever using your car!

Food and drink

Norfolk’s unique coast and countryside provide a rich larder of seasonal ingredients and superb seafood. Visit a whisky distillery, relax in cosy country pubs, or enjoy fine dining. If fish and chips isn’t your thing, why not sample an afternoon tea at one of the many independent cafes and delis.

Cycling in Norfolk

When it comes to cycling, Norfolk is your oyster. There are hundreds of coastal, country and forest routes available. Bring your own bike, or hire one, but don’t miss cycling in Norfolk. There’s stunning coast, countryside and waterways to enjoy, as well as quiet country lanes, woodland cycle routes, specialist trails or go off-road in the forest.

Family Attractions

There are lots of places to visit with the kids within easy reach of Oxnead including the Dinosaur Adventure Park, Bewilderwood, Banham Zoo, Hunstanton Sea Life Sancturary, The Norwich Mystery Treasure Trail, Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse, Wroxham Barns and Splash Sherringham.

Churches and Cathedrals

There were over 1,000 medieval churches built in Norfolk and 659 still remain, this is the greatest concentration in the world. Not only are these beautiful internationally important buildings, but they contain hundreds of medieval works of art and craftsmanship. The simple and easily built round towers of early times gave way to the rich and spacious buildings in the prosperous Middle Ages, many noted for their beautiful rood screens, decorated roofs and bench carvings. The decline in the population of Norfolk left many churches isolated from their villages, but their towers still dominate the Norfolk landscape. Each of these wonderful buildings, offers a great place to escape our busy lives and experience peace and tranquility. Make sure you get to visit some of these magnificent medieval churches during your stay in Norfolk.

Walking In Norfolk

There are a number of beautiful country walks straight from your doorstep in Oxnead. Walk along the River Bure to Buxton and return across the fields, or go up stream towards Aylsham. See the variety of wildlife and experience at first hand the peaceful and unspoilt countryside. For the more adventurous tackle the Norfolk Coast Path which runs 62 miles from Hunstanton to Sea Palling, through an area of outstanding natural beauty. There is also the famous Norfolk coastal path where you can spend hours navigating and exploring new sights.

Adventure in norfolk

Enjoy outdoor and action and activities when you visit Norfolk, including off-road cycling, tree-top adventure, kitesurfing, paddleboarding and canoeing. Norfolk is nature’s playground! There are activities for all ages and abilities.