Historical sites

Creake Abbey ruins

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Creake Abbey is a unique destination combining history, food, shopping, and nature. At its heart lie the atmospheric ruins of the 13th-century Augustinian Abbey, now a fascinating historical landmark. Alongside, you’ll find an award-winning farmers’ market (held on the first Saturday of each month), a café serving light lunches and afternoon teas, and a selection of independent shops and a deli offering fresh meats, cheeses, produce, wines, and ales. Families will enjoy the children’s sandpit and toy tractors, while plant lovers can browse the nursery. The surrounding area is perfect for gentle walks or cycling, with routes leading to scenic viewpoints over Burnham Overy Staithe and its harbour. The fields opposite the car park are also a haven for birdwatchers. With its mix of heritage, local flavour, and outdoor activities, Creake Abbey offers something for everyone—including four-legged friends, as dogs are welcome too.

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Holkham Hall

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Holkham Hall is an impressive 18th-century country house at the heart of a stunning 25,000-acre estate. Recognised as one of England’s most magnificent stately homes, it features the spectacular Marble Hall, Statue Gallery, Chapel and a series of grand historic rooms. Beyond the house, visitors can explore the beautifully restored walled garden, Victorian greenhouses, sweeping parkland with its fountain, and a rich variety of wildlife. The estate offers a host of experiences including guided tours, outdoor theatre, dining at the restaurant, browsing the gift shop, or simply enjoying a picnic in Holkham Park. Families can discover the woodland play area, join the free weekly parkrun, or take part in seasonal activities. For something more adventurous, guests can book tractor trailer tours, hire boats on the lake, or test their skills on the ropes course and zip wires. Holkham blends history, nature and leisure, making it a truly unique destination for all.

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Houghton Hall

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Houghton Hall, a magnificent Palladian mansion built in the 1700s for Britain’s first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole, is one of Norfolk’s most outstanding heritage landmarks. Surrounded by vast parkland, the estate offers an inspiring blend of history, art, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the stately Hall, the award-winning Walled Garden, the Model Soldier Museum, outdoor sculptures, and the work of renowned sculptor Tony Cragg.

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The celebrated Walled Garden is a highlight, with its double-sided herbaceous border, Italian garden, rose parterre, fruit and vegetable plots, glasshouse, rustic temple, antique statues, fountains, and contemporary installations such as Jeppe Hein’s Waterflame, Stephen Cox’s Flask II, and Richard Long’s Houghton Cross. Houghton’s outdoor sculpture programme also attracts international acclaim, most recently with Sean Scully’s major exhibition, featuring monumental works in the park alongside paintings and works on paper.

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For military history enthusiasts, the Model Soldier Museum houses the world’s largest private collection of model soldiers. After exploring, visitors can enjoy fresh seasonal food at The Stables Café or browse the Gift Shop for unique souvenirs. With its rich heritage, world-class art, and beautiful gardens, Houghton Hall is an unmissable destination—be sure to check opening dates in advance.