Year-round in North Norfolk
## Walking Trails (All Seasons)
#### **Norfolk Coast Path (63 miles, Hunstanton to Sea Palling)**
The iconic long-distance trail runs through AONB with wide skies, salt marshes, beaches, and gently rolling countryside.
**Key characteristics:**
- Well-marked, maintained trail
- Multiple circular walks available (don't need to do full 63 miles)
- Public transport-friendly (Coasthopper bus service runs Hunstanton to Cromer)
- Suitable for all abilities with shorter options
**Website:** https://www.visitnorthnorfolk.com/see-and-do/walking
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#### **Marriott's Way (26 miles)**
Tranquil trail following disused railway lines. Suitable for walkers and cyclists. Passes through picturesque villages; wildlife including kestrels, hares, orchids, and occasionally otters.
**Route:** Aylsham & Reepham to Norwich
**Website:** Norfolk Trails interactive map
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#### **Peddars Way (46 miles)**
Historic trail from the Brecks through changing countryside to the coast near Hunstanton.
**Website:** https://www.peddarsway.com
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#### **Weavers' Way (61 miles)**
Named after the medieval weaving industry. Runs from Cromer (taking in Cromer Pier) to Great Yarmouth.
**Website:** Norfolk Trails interactive map
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#### **Coastal Treasures Heritage Routes (16 routes)**
Themed heritage routes exploring cultural heritage, history, and natural beauty around north-west Norfolk.
**Website:** https://www.visitnorthnorfolk.com
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#### **Easy Access Walks & Dementia-Friendly Routes**
Norfolk offers flat, hard-surfaced walks with handrails, seating, and accessible car parks. Routes designed for walkers with dementia and carers.
**Website:** https://www.visitnorthnorfolk.com/see-and-do/walking
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### National Trust Properties Year-Round
#### **Felbrigg Hall, Gardens & Estate**
- **Open:** Year-round (limited winter hours)
- **Parking:** £5 non-members
- **Website:** https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/felbrigg-hall-gardens-and-estate
#### **Blickling Estate**
- **Open:** Varies seasonally; check ahead
- **Highlights:** Festive decorations November–December
- **Website:** https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling-estate
#### **Sheringham Park**
- **Open:** Year-round
- **Best for:** Spring flowers (azaleas/rhododendrons April–May), autumn foliage (Sept–Oct)
- **Website:** https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sheringham-park
#### **Holkham Estate**
- **Hall:** Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays only (March–October); special events November–December
- **Beach & Nature Reserve:** Open year-round; parking £3.60–£13.50
- **Website:** https://www.holkham.co.uk
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### Cycling Routes
**Quiet lanes on the Cromer Ridge (Kelling Heath area):** Flat, scenic cycling through countryside
**Norfolk Trails:** https://www.norfolktrails.org.uk
Over 1,000 miles of cycling routes throughout Norfolk
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## Practical Information for Your North Norfolk Stay
### Distance from Riverbank Cottage (Holt)
| Destination | Drive Time |
|-----------|-----------|
| Blakeney Point / Morston Quay | 10 min |
| Cley Marshes | 10 min |
| Holkham Beach | 20 min |
| Wells-next-the-Sea | 20 min |
| Cromer | 25 min |
| Sheringham | 20 min |
| West Runton | 25 min |
| Holt town centre | 5 min / walking |
| Felbrigg Hall | 20 min |
| Blickling Estate | 20 min |
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### Best Times to Visit (Summary)
| Season | Best For | Key Events |
|--------|----------|-----------|
| **Spring** | Wildflowers, birds returning, Easter family fun | Orchid Valley bloom, spring bird migration |
| **Summer** | Beach holidays, festivals, outdoor dining | Cromer Pier Show, Holkham Food Festival, family attractions |
| **Autumn** | Walking, photography, quiet beaches, antique hunting | Peak birdwatching, woodland colours, harvest |
| **Winter** | Romance, seal pups, cosy pubs, Christmas events | Seal pup season, Holkham by Candlelight, Thursford Winter Wonderland |
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### Booking Recommendations
- **Summer (July–August):** Book restaurants 4–6 weeks ahead; popular hotels book months in advance
- **Autumn & Spring:** More flexibility; book 2–3 weeks ahead
- **Winter:** Christmas/New Year busy; otherwise good availability
- **Seal trips:** Book online in advance; walks-ups possible but not guaranteed
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### Local Resources
- **Visit North Norfolk:** https://www.visitnorthnorfolk.com (comprehensive local information, what's on calendar, accommodation)
- **National Trust (Norfolk properties):** https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk
- **Norfolk Wildlife Trust (Cley Marshes):** https://www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
- **Coasthopper bus service:** Serves the Norfolk Coast Path (Hunstanton to Cromer); ideal for walkers without cars
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### Practical Essentials
**Weather:** Layers essential year-round; waterproofs for coastal walks; winter means cold winds
**Tide times:** Essential for beach planning; check https://www.bbc.co.uk/weather before visiting
**Dog-friendly:** Most attractions welcome dogs; some beaches have seasonal on-lead restrictions (April–August at Holkham)
**Accessibility:** Many walks have accessible options; check individual attraction websites
**Payment:** Most attractions and restaurants accept card; some smaller cafés cash-preferred (always check)
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## Notes & Currency
**All information accurate as of December 2025.** Facilities, opening times, and restaurant availability may change seasonally. Always:
- Check official websites ahead of visits
- Book restaurants in advance (especially summer)
- Confirm opening times for seasonal attractions
- Download tide tables for beach visits
- Bring layers, waterproofs, and good walking shoes
**Phone numbers provided where available; contact via websites for most current information.**
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**Happy exploring! Riverbank Norfolk is ideally positioned for discovering all that North Norfolk has to offer in every season.**
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