Reasons to love Norfolk in winter.

It's dark, cold and the only thing you and the kids have to look forward to will be decorating the house for Pancake Day... in March.

Sigh.

Whilst it's true after a busy holiday season parts of Norfolk hibernate in January and February, it's not entirely shuttered. If you look hard, there are still some fun pastimes to occupy those brief hours of sunlight between 8am-4pm (and beyond).

   1. Take a winter walk We know, hardly ground breaking, but nothing blows the cobwebs quite like a brisk country walk. With the coastal path from Morston-to-Cley featured in The Times' best winter walks, you never regret a winter wander. We enjoy the immense fortune of having a number of well-worn wooded paths, parks and world-renowned beaches at our doorstep. Above is our lab Indi exploring the chalk beds of West Runton Beach. Bliss.

  2. Explore our stately homes Whilst Sandringham Estate and Holkham Hall may be closed until spring, Sandringham's Royal Parkland, Courtyard, shop, restaurant and Children’s Play Area are open all year long. Blickling Hall and Oxburgh Estate are also open, whilst Felbrigg Hall opens for weekends in February. Avoid the summer crowds, channel your inner history buff and brush up on our esteemed Norfolk Heritage.

  3. Take a dip! Known for its myriad health benefits and energy boosting credentials, cold water swimming is fast becoming a popular British pastime. Take a dip in the North Sea before warming up at the Sauna Box in Sheringham. Not ready to brace the frigid-swells of the Norfolk coast? Try the state-of-the-art pool at The Reef in Sheringham and book the Inflatables obstacle course for a fun family day out. Ps- it's not just for kids! 

  4. Become a foodie Norfolk is fast becoming a bit of a foodie-destination, minus the pretension. Take advantage of these quieter months to book a table at The Gunton Arms or Morston Hall, which opens in February, well known for their locally-sourced fare. We also hear good things about Meadowsweet, in Holt, open Wednesday-Saturdays. Another of our favourite local haunts is Marmalade's Bistro, in Sheringham, an unassuming gem! 

  5. Visit Norwich Stroll the cobbled streets, independent boutiques and explore the rich history of Norfolk's capital. Norwich Castle and Norwich Cathedral are always worth a family visit. In fairness, insert any one of Norfolk's charming market towns such as Holt, Burnham Market, Wells, Cley or Blakeney, to name a few.