September – November: Woodland Walks, Quieter Beaches & Harvest Season

Autumn is magical. Woodland colours peak (September–October), golden light is photographer's paradise, and summer crowds disappear. Birdwatching improves as migratory species arrive. Prices drop and bookings are easier.

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### Coast & Nature – Autumn

#### **Quieter Beach Days**
*Perfect for: Romantic walks, Peaceful getaways, Photography*

Autumn transforms beaches into near-empty wonderlands. Cool temperatures mean fewer tourists; golden light is spectacular for photography.

- **Top autumn walks:**
  - **Holkham to Wells walk** (along the beach or through pines): 5–6 miles; stunning light on water and dunes
  - **Salthouse to Cley Marshes**: Quieter; excellent birdwatching
  - **Blakeney Point walk**: Soft sand, salt marshes, wildlife
  
- **Birdwatching advantage:** Migratory warblers, waders, and rarer species arrive in late August–September
- **Photography tip:** Golden hour (sunset) is exceptional in autumn on Norfolk beaches

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#### **Cley Marshes Nature Reserve (Autumn)**
*Perfect for: Serious birdwatchers, Photography, Nature lovers*

Autumn is peak season for birdwatchers. Migratory species arrive; rare vagrants occasionally appear, drawing "twitchers" from across the country.

- **Autumn birds:** Reed warblers, marsh harriers, spoonbills, waders, occasional rarities
- **Peak months:** August–October for migration
- **Birdwatching hides:** Multiple hides positioned for optimal viewing
- **Visitor centre:** Up-to-date sighting information board
- **Website:** https://www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/reserves-and-wildlife/reserves/cley-marshes

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#### **Felbrigg Hall, Gardens & Estate (National Trust)**
*Perfect for: Autumn walks, Historic house visits, Family days*

520-acre estate with beech, oak, sweet chestnut woodland. Autumn foliage is spectacular. Historic 17th-century hall with fascinating collections and walled gardens.

- **What to expect:** Woodland walks, lake, rolling parkland, historic house, beautiful walled garden with flower borders and vegetable beds
- **Autumn highlight:** Russet and gold woodland colours; fewer crowds; crisp walks
- **Unique feature:** Victory V memorial avenues (planted by the last squire in WWII memory); ice house in Great Wood (18th-century ruin)
- **Facilities:** The Squire's Pantry café (hot/cold drinks, sandwiches, afternoon tea, cakes, ice creams)
- **House opening:** Downstairs rooms decorated for Christmas from November
- **Parking:** £5 per car (non-members); free for National Trust members
- **Website:** https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/felbrigg-hall-gardens-and-estate
- **Distance from Riverbank:** ~20 minutes drive

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#### **Blickling Estate (National Trust)**
*Perfect for: Historic house visits, Family days, Autumn walks*

Jacobean mansion set in parkland. Historic gardens being restored. September–October ideal for visiting before winter closure.

- **What to expect:** Grand historic house, parkland walks, gardens (in restoration), lake
- **Autumn advantage:** Pleasant walking weather; fewer summer crowds
- **Website:** https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling-estate
- **Distance from Riverbank:** ~20 minutes drive

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#### **Sheringham Park (Autumn)**
*Perfect for: Woodland walks, Photography, Peaceful strolls*

100-acre woodland estate with paths through trees showing autumn colours. Observation towers offer views over countryside and coast.

- **Autumn highlight:** Golden and russet foliage; soft golden light; excellent for photography
- **Trails:** Various woodland walks, observation towers, parkland
- **Website:** https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sheringham-park

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### Food & Drink – Autumn

#### **The Kings Head, Letheringsett**
*Perfect for: Comfortable autumn meals, Cosy dinners, Family meals*

Elevated pub food using local ingredients. Ideal for autumn when fireplaces are lit and menus shift to heartier fare.

- **Autumn menu:** Game, mushrooms, roasted vegetables, warming desserts
- **Atmosphere:** Cosy with fireplaces; garden (less available autumn onwards)
- **Website:** https://www.kingsheadnorfolk.co.uk
- **Distance from Riverbank:** ~5 minutes drive

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#### **The Gunton Arms (Autumn)**
*Perfect for: Autumn celebration dinners, Special occasions, Cosy evenings*

Open-fire cooking makes this extra atmospheric in autumn and winter. Perfect for celebrating the season.

- **Autumn speciality:** Game (pheasant, venison, duck), roasted vegetables, open-fire warmth