Luxury Cottages in Norfolk

With over 90 miles of coastline and some of the UK’s best historic houses, there’s much more to Norfolk than Norwich and the broads. The East Anglian county is regarded as the cradle of British civilization, being the first place in Britain to be settled by early man. 

As well as all this historical significance, which can be explored in exciting museums across the county, Norfolk is also home to the Norfolk Coastal Path, the world’s last end-of-pier theatre, and the country’s largest seal colony! Many a holiday has been spent discovering the natural and cultural wonders of Norfolk, which in many ways feel endless.

Looking for somewhere during your trip? We have a number of luxury Norfolk cottages to rent, including dog-friendly homes, family-friendly spaces, and cottages within walking distance to the beach.

Why visit?

  • Foodies won’t be disappointed with a visit to Norfolk. Cromer crab is said to be the best in Britain, thanks to the salt-water reef the creatures live in. There are also award-winning fish and chip shops, as well as a number of breweries across the county.
  • Many of Norfolk’s beaches are open all-year round to dogs, meaning you and your four-legged friend can enjoy a fun day at the seaside, whatever the weather.
  • Nature lovers will have much to marvel at. Head to Hunstanton for the UK’s largest seal colony, or marvel at the skies when the annual geese migration occurs. Fancy something a little quirkier? The yearly World Snail Racing Championship is held in Congham, Norfolk… Place your bets!

Read the Norfolk Travel Guide

Why stay with us?

Style and character are everything at Oliver’s Travels, and our collection of handpicked cottages in Norfolk have this in spades.

We have destination experts who know the ins and outs of all our regions, picking cottages that aren’t only unique, but also in the best locations. What's more, our cottages are 100% family-friendly, and have the ‘wow’ factor.

Our helpful concierge team are on-hand to make your stay extra special. Whether you want a fully-stocked fridge, a local in-house chef to cook your meals, housekeeping or any other extra service – consider them your holiday genie, who will happily grant your wishes.

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Holiday Cottages in Norfolk: Our Top Picks

Norfolk Travel Guide

Why visit Norfolk

Norfolk has always had an important place in Britain’s history. From being the first place in the country where early humans first roamed, to the birthplace of the bowler hat (yes, really!), it’s no wonder that Norfolk continues to be a county uniquely rich in history and culture

The 90 miles of exquisite coastline attracts beach lovers year after year, whether they’re looking for a carefree seaside family holiday or seeking to take on the Norfolk Coastal Path. We love the outdoorsy activities and natural attractions Norfolk boasts, as well as the idyllic towns and villages peppered throughout the county. A quiet and peaceful area, there’s much more to Norfolk than first meets the eye. 

Our Norfolk holiday cottages are a great base to explore all that Norfolk offers. Grab the little ones and stay in a family-friendly holiday home, or bring your four-legged friend and browse our dog-friendly cottages in Norfolk. The home of the ‘Norfolk dumpling’ awaits!

 


Things to do

Discovering the beautiful coastline makes a great place to begin your Norfolk beachside holiday. Grab your walking shoes and take on the Norfolk Coastal Path, an 84-mile trail that takes ramblers through various cliffs, sandy beaches, and delightful seaside towns. Visiting the county on a hot, sunny day? Those same sandy beaches are ideal for a seaside family day out, and there’s even a chance to try your hand at some watersports too - Norfolk is a lesser-known surfing hotspot, particularly towards the north of the county. 

A simple drive around Norfolk will uncover many hidden gems too. The county is known for its quaint and quiet villages, home to classic country pubs and adorable tea rooms. Each showcase their version of the Norfolk heritage through unique museums and one-of-a-kind events: the Hunstanton Kite Festival, Sheringham’s Lobster Patties, and the World Pier Crabbing Championships in Cromer, to name a few! 

Liven up your visit with an adrenaline-filled activity - Norfolk isn’t as sleepy as it may first appear! At the Hilltop Outdoor Centre, visitors can try archery, air jumping, climbing, ziplining, and much more. Go on a discovery through the treetops at Holkham Ropes Course, or take to the skies in the Norfolk Gliding Club. Adventure awaits!


Best beaches

We could write for days and days about the beaches of Norfolk - there really are that many to choose from!

The North Norfolk coast is best known for unspoilt, sandy dunes, as well as being home to the Hunstanton seal colony. There are six blue-flag beaches in this area, meaning they are in the top tier of quality English beaches.

Head to Holkham for white sands and pinewoods, a beach that has been the setting of many blockbuster films. Just further along is Wells, regarded for its award-winning and dog-friendly coast. Hunstanton is one of the few beaches in Norfolk that faces west, so is generally said to be the sunniest resort in the county. Explore the rock pools and cliffs late into the summer's day. 

Picturesque Sheringham is a traditional beauty whose shingled shoreline is perfect for little ones to explore. Of course, we can’t forget Cromer - famed for crabbing, the pier, and the largest (and perhaps most extravagant) Christmas show in the country! You’ll definitely stop here at some point during your Norfolk cottage holiday.


Food and drink

Did you know that fish and chips was one of the only foods in the UK that wasn’t rationed? We clearly can’t get enough of the stuff, and luckily Norfolk is home to some of the best fish and chip shops in the country

Spending the day in Norwich? The award-winning Grosvenor Fish Bar is a must-do for lunch. Visit over the festive period and you may even be treated to their battered stuffing balls! Back on the coast, No1 Cromer is a hit for locals and tourists alike.

While you’re in Cromer, make sure to have a taste of the delicious Cromer crab too. The shellfish live in the reef off the coast of the town, giving them a distinctive taste. 

Cheese lovers must keep their eyes peeled for Mrs Temple's Cheeses. These locally produced cheese can be found throughout eateries and shops in the county, and make perfect presents - for others or yourself!

Why it's perfect for families

  • Good for babies: The gentle waves around the Norfolk coast are a fab place to introduce your little ones to the water. Soft golden sands make for the best beach days, and many of the seaside towns have ample playgrounds, games and attractions to keep toddlers entertained.

  • Good for kids: With a dinosaur park, aquarium, adventure park, and tons of outdoor adventure areas, kids won’t ever be bored during your family holiday in Norfolk. Many of our cottages to rent in Norfolk also come with games to make sure your kids are entertained throughout the evening and quieter days too.

  • Good for teens: Make the most of the great outdoors during your trip to Norfolk with your teenager/s. Rent a boat on the Norfolk Broads, or encourage them to lace up their walking boots and tackle some of the Norfolk Coastal Path. A great opportunity for them to ditch the tech and reconnect with nature.   

Top tips

  • Book ahead: Norfolk is a busy and popular holiday destination, especially during the summer months and half-term. Avoid disappointed little ones and book your activities in advance, for a carefree trip.

  • Take it slow: Set aside some time to reconnect to nature and simply explore the surroundings of your Norfolk holiday cottage. Many of our holiday homes to rent in Norfolk are located near to walking trails, ideal for a calm moment during your visit.

  • Stay beach safe: Like many of Britain's beaches, the Norfolk coastline is to be enjoyed with caution. Follow the latest guidance when entering the water, and take note of the weather conditions and tide times when embarking on your coastal walks.

What Oliver loves

You could visit Norfolk year after year and still find new things to discover in this varied county. From the constantly changing city of Norwich to uncovering serene and quiet stretches of sand, Norfolk is a county that promises a relaxing holiday. Its small size means you can easily travel from edge to edge and experience the incredible family-friendly attractions peppered across the county.

Norfolk's towns and villages

From busy seaside resorts to quiet coastal villages, the towns and villages across Norfolk are perfect for exploring during your holiday. 

Head to the city of Norwich for a day spent shopping and finding out more about the history of the county, home to a beautiful cathedral and adorable Norwich lanes. Cromer and its famous pier are another must-visit, especially if a traditional British seaside break is on your holiday bucket list.

See the seals at Blakeney, along the North Norfolk coast, while the market town of Holt is said to be one of the prettiest in the area, thanks to its abundance of Georgian buildings. ‘Sunny Hunny’, as the locals call Hunstanton, is one of the most popular beach towns in Norfolk, or head down to Great Yarmouth and take a spin on a boat in the Norfolk Broads.

Oliver’s Hidden Gem

While the beautiful beaches of Norfolk attract thousands of visitors every year, there are still some spots along the coast that are yet to experience that tourist rush. Holme-next-the-Sea is one such example - situated in a National Nature Reserve, this wonderful stretch of sand is actually where Seahenge, a 4000-year old Bronze Age timber circle, was discovered.

The county capital, Norwich is a delightful and welcoming city. Wander down the Norwich lanes for independent shops and eateries, or grab a bite to eat at the award winning Norwich market. Norwich Cathedral looks beautiful in the sunset, while the Theatre Royal is the place to go for your evening entertainment.

Just beyond the Norfolk Broad lies Great Yarmouth, another example of a classically British seaside town. While the beach may be the main attraction, don’t forget to visit the Time and Tide Museum for your dose of local history, or the Sea Life Centre to discover the wonders that lie just beyond the shore. 

Mundesley is home to one of Norfolk’s six blue flag awarded beaches, and when you see the long stretches of sand, you won’t be surprised why. The village is often quieter than neighbouring Cromer, yet is just as beautiful. Spend an afternoon admiring the colourful beach huts that line the coast.

On the northern edge of the county lies Hunstanton, a coastal town that has the advantage of facing west across the Wash, and therefore enjoying long, sunny days. Largely considered to be the sunniest place in Norfolk, this popular tourist town boasts beautiful sunsets, and is an ideal base from which to explore your Norfolk cottage holiday.

It’s the crab that pulls the tourists in, but visitors to Cromer soon find themselves transfixed by the town’s picturesque streets and one-of-a-kind pier. The iconic seaside elements of Cromer are remarkably well preserved - the town has the world’s last end-of-pier theatre. Locals are always keen to share their favourite fish and chip shop, too.

Locomotive lovers won’t be able to pass up a trip to Sheringham - the coastal town is home to a heritage steam railway. The North Norfolk Railway (also known as the Poppy Line) runs between Sheringham and Holt, as is a great family day out.

Norfolk travel: Getting there and around

Norfolk may be tucked away in the eastern corner of England, but it’s actually a lot easier to get to and around than you may initially think. The country roads and county trains and buses connect the delightful seaside towns and villages together, making for a carefree break.


By car

The main way to enter Norfolk is via the A10 or A11, especially if you’re travelling from London or the south. The main towns of Norfolk are well connected via road, and the small size of the county means everywhere is easily reachable for a day trip.


By train

The main train stations in Norfolk are Norwich and King’s Lynn; even if you’re travelling to some of the smaller towns and villages, you’re likely to pass through these places. Busier towns like Great Yarmouth and Cromer have regular trains to Norwich too.


By bus

There’s a good bus service throughout Norfolk that connects many of the towns and villages. It may not be the quickest or most frequent, but it’s certainly a cheap way to see the county and pass through some of the lesser visited areas of Norfolk.


By taxi

Taxis are available but can be expensive, especially in the smaller towns/villages and during the busier months. Always remember to book ahead, too.


By foot

The Norfolk Coastal Path is a big reason why tourists holiday in the county. You can take on as much or as little of the 84-mile route as you like. Elsewhere, Norfolk has an abundance of walking trails and treks. Discovering the county by foot is rewarding and relaxing.

Top tips

  • Book your taxis in advance when going to and from smaller towns and villages. You don’t want to be left stranded!

  • Consider getting a railcard if you’re going to be relying on trains during your trip. Depending on the discount, it can make tickets nearly half the price.

  • Invest in some good quality shoes if walking is going to be a key aspect of your holiday. There’s nothing worse than sore, blistered feet on day one!

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