Tour the Towns during Your Holidays in Norfolk
On the central east coast of England lies the historic county of Norfolk. It is a holiday destination away from the hustle and bustle of London or Cardiff, yet with some of the most splendid places to visit. If you've never considered taking your holidays in Norfolk, you might want to think again. One of the most wonderful ways to spend your time is in touring all the charming towns and villages the county has to offer.
Norwich is Norfolk's administrative centre, and the county's largest city. It's no wonder that the majority of Norfolk residents live and work there. But leave Norwich on any road out of town, and you'll soon discover a vast open land dotted with smaller towns and hamlets; from the coast to Norfolk's western border.
One place that's a must-see during your norfolk holidays is Great Yarmouth. This coastal city is Norfolk's most popular tourist destination. With 15 miles of sandy beaches, a world-famous pier, amusements, and a great family atmosphere, Great Yarmouth has to be on your tour list.
To the west of Norwich is the historic town of Wymondhand, with a population of about 12,500. Robert Kett, the city's most famous resident, led a rebellion in 1549 which resulted in the capture and occupation of Norwich for nearly six weeks. Wymondhand's other claim to fame is the Great Fire of 1615, started by a handful of gypsies and locals, that destroyed much of the city. Tourists to modern Wymondhand can visit sites relating to Kett's Rebellion and the Great Fire, as well as Market Cross, Wymondhand Abbey, and others.
As you head northwest, you absolutely must stop for a visit at Swaffam. If you've seen the iTV1 series, “Kingdom”, you'll recognize this cosy little town of 6,000 residents as you drive in. Major portions of “Kingdom” were filmed in Swaffam, including scenes involving the fictional Startled Duck, a pub known as The Greyhound Inn to real-life Swaffam residents. Swaffam is also home to the EchoTech Centre and two Enercon wind turbines. One of the turbines offers an observation deck which gives great views of the countryside.
Finally, to the extreme northwest is the coastal town of Hunstanton. With just over 4,000 residents, this small town offers a quaint look at life in a picturesque seaside village. Hunstanton was one of the most popular family resort towns in the 1980s. But it has since quieted a bit, as holiday travellers are heading father to the east for their coastal holidays in Norfolk. Nevertheless, a steady stream of day-trippers keeps the town vibrant and alive and another must-see stop on your tour.
If you've got time left after visiting Hunstanton, just take a drive and see what comes.""