If you’re looking for a fun weekend away or a day trip to enjoy some beautiful autumn scenes, there’s one Norfolk village that you’ll want to have on your radar
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Autumn is in full swing and while in Britain that can mean grey, rainy days, on the occasions when the sunshine does make an appearance, there are some beautiful villages that are transformed into postcard-worthy autumnal hubs. In fact there’s one picturesque village in Norfolk that wouldn’t be amiss in a storybook, and the best part is that it’s less than two hours from Cambridge.
Holkham in North Norfolk isn’t a hidden gem – with its beautiful sandy beach, thriving shops and cosy pubs, it’s been a firm favourite with visitors for years. However, the larger tourist crowds tend to descend on the town during the summer months, but come autumn it’s a lot quieter, meaning less elbow jostling if you’re wanting to explore its breathtaking landscapes.
Things to see and do
Holkham National Nature Reserve is a good place to start. Made up of pristine sandy dunes, saltmarshes and a wide array of plants that play host to heaps of wildlife, here’s where you can enjoy plenty of scenic autumn morning strolls with cosy layers and a coffee. Highlights include Holkham Bay with its unrivalled views across the North Sea. Unlike the summer months, there aren’t nesting birds which means that dogs can be let off the leash too.
The beach may be recognisable to film fans too; it’s previously served as a filming location for hits including Shakespeare in Love (starring Gwyneth Paltrow), Deadpool and Wolverine (starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman).
For the days where the British weather lets you down, it’s worth a trip to Holkham Hall, an 18th century home that’s steeped in history, boasting ornate stately rooms, perfectly landscaped gardens and a fun events year-round from artisan markets to “Meet the Makers’ sessions where you can meet locals who are producing delicious food and drink.
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Beautiful autumn walks
The nature reserve is where you’ll get to enjoy some of Norfolk’s best coastal walks (keep an eye out for the grey seals that settle in!), but for those who don’t want to commit to a full hike, the area is full of pretty woodlands with easy, family-friendly walks that you can easily do in an hour or two.
Still if you’re after something a little more challenging, one popular route is the 10-mile leg between Holkham and Blakeney. It’s not completely for beginners due to the length, but it does offer a great mix of coastal views, and plenty of decent pubs where you can end the walk with a proper roast by a roaring fireplace.
Christmas in Holkham
Whether you think it’s too early or not, Christmas is on its way, and Holkham has plenty of fun events throughout the festive season. Holkham Hall hosts Holkham by Candlelight from Nov 29 to Dec 30, as well as a chance to meet Father Christmas, while the town’s Christmas Market runs from Dec 11-13.
Courtesy of What’s On Archive | Everyone Theatres
