With grand designs, gorgeous exteriors and luscious gardens, we’re recommending the best places to step back into the past and take in the history. Let us know which of these country estates is your favourite!
Felbrigg Hall
Located between Aylsham and Cromer, this is a well known Norfolk gem. A 17th century beauty, a day out in this national trust protected hall will see you walking through an orangery and orchards as you wander through the gardens. Inside the hall, you can see many historical artefacts and stained glass windows.
Sandringham
Visit Sandringham, the Queen’s Country retreat, to bring the royal touch to your holiday. There are a range of tours to use around the house, where you’ll see royal portraits and glittering silverware. You can also visit the exhibition and transport museum, which houses the first ever motor car owned by the royal family. Experience 243 hectares of natural beauty in the gardens, where you can walk through the sculpture trail.
Oxburgh Hall
Another National Trust Property, this hall is nestled in gardens that break the boundary between beautifully curated and wonderfully wild. If you’re eager eyed, you might even spot otters in the River Gadder. A magnificent Tudor house, exploring the property offers a rare chance to see the past through one family, learning about their lives as you marvel at their collection.
Blickling Estate
This enormous estate – all 4,600 acres of it! – really has something for everyone down every corner. Explore the art installation all about Enlightenment knowledge, cycle around the gardens, and treat the kids to a range of activities from the ‘Summer of Sport’ programme to seed planting and creating butterfly surveys. The star of the Jacobian House is its extensive library, with a whole experience all around its book collection.
Hindringham Hall
This is a small but romantic place to explore. One of the best beauty spots of this location are the medieval fishponds, but the plentiful hidden areas will make you feel like you’ve stepped inside Norfolk’s very own secret garden. From a bog and water gardens to the walled fruit and vegetable garden, a visit here will give you aching legs and a broad grin alike. Once you’re done stretching your legs, you can wash it all down in the cosy tea room.
All of these country estates are worth visiting, you can take our word for it! For other locations around Norfolk you’l want to visit, head on over to our Journal.