Norfolk Summer Holiday Activity Guide for Families
With summer holidays on the horizon and warmer temperatures finally arriving, you might be brainstorming some fun-filled activities for when schools are closed. It can be difficult to break free from the usual beach or park outings and come up with some fresh ideas for celebrating summer with the whole family, especially when you have multiple age groups to consider. So, where do you start?
Luckily, the team at Simon Long Removals is here to lend a hand. As local experts, we have compiled a summer holiday guide to Norfolk, detailing a range of exciting activities. Take a look at our recommendations below and prepare for an unforgettable summer holiday.
Go crazy at a carnival
Norfolk hosts several large carnivals that provide activities for all age groups. Wells Carnival is scheduled from July 28th-August 6th, whilst Sheringham Carnival runs from July 30th-August 5th. Both events offer an abundance of traditional seaside festivities, live music, competitions and an exciting fancy dress parade where attendees can showcase their best costumes.
If that isn’t enough, Cromer Carnival will be taking place from 12th-18th August. This is one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the year and promises a plethora of entertainment acts, competitions and stalls, along with captivating equestrian and motorcycle display teams. This all culminates in a thrilling flypast performed by the iconic Red Arrows.
Walk amongst royalty
Located in the picturesque Norfolk countryside, Sandringham Estate has hosted generations of royals and has a history dating back 150 years. The house itself is open for viewings during the summer months, where visitors can admire the opulent architecture and lavish surroundings. The house is nestled in extensive grounds which span over 600 acres and boast numerous walking and cycling trails and a large children’s playground. The estate also hosts ‘Forest Fun’ groups every Tuesday and Thursday in August (excluding the last week). During these sessions, plenty of activities are on offer for the whole family, including campfires, crafts, scavenger hunts and archery.
Explore the beautiful Norfolk Broads
Summer is the perfect time to explore the outstanding natural beauty of the Norfolk Broads. This national park is home to diverse wildlife, an idyllic landscape and more miles of waterways than Venice. You can explore the view by hopping on a guided boat tour where local experts will navigate you through the extensive network of rivers. Alternatively, you can gather up the whole family and hire a boat for your own personalised adventure. The thrill seekers out there can also rent kayaks or paddle boards to get up close and personal with the scenic riverway.
Marvel in the beauty of hot air balloons
Old Buckenham Balloon Festival is taking place 11th-13th August and is one of the true highlights in the Norfolk calendar. Here, all ages can enjoy circus acts, craft stalls, street food, children’s entertainment, and local and national music acts — there is truly something to cater to all ages. Of course, the main spectacle is in the sky as numerous hot air balloons ascend to form a breathtaking display — you even have the chance to purchase or win a ride of your own!
Play amongst the prehistoric
Situated just a 25-minute drive from Norwich, Roarr! is a dinosaur-themed adventure park that combines education with adventure. You can immerse yourself in the ‘Valley of the Dinosaur’, boasting animatronic dinosaurs which bring the prehistoric world back to life. With crazy golf, a high ropes course and numerous play areas, it promises an action-packed day out for all ages.
Frolic in the forests
A stroll amongst nature offers many benefits to your physical and mental well-being and if you’re after a woodland walk, then Norfolk has plenty of hidden gems to offer. To the East Coast lies Waveney Forest, a tranquil haven teeming with a range of bird species to observe. Holt Country Park is just off the North Norfolk Coast and boasts 100 acres of mixed woodland for everyone to enjoy. This Green Flag award-winning area is home to an array of butterfly species, making it the perfect place for nature lovers. For an action-packed day out, you can also visit Norfolk’s largest forest — Thetford Forest. For daredevils, there is a variety of thrilling activities to choose from, including a high ropes course, archery, zorbing, axe throwing, wilderness courses and even a segway experience. For those who prefer a tranquil walk, the forest offers a staggering 47,000 acres of woodland with endless trails to explore.
If you’re looking to move to the Norfolk area, get in touch with the team at Simon Long Removals. With offices in Thetford, Kings Lynn, Cambridge and Norwich, we are happy to help facilitate your move to the region. For additional information or to obtain a free quote, contact us today.