February Half Term
If you’re planning a trip to Norfolk for February half term, I bet you might be wondering what there is to do this time of year. The answer is that there’s still plenty going on, and it’s a lovely time of year to visit. Here are some suggestions for a stress free half term, with something to keep every member of the family occupied!
Beaches
There’s a fabulous choice of beaches on the East Norfolk coast. Winterton-on-Sea beach is backed by miles of sandy dunes. If you enjoy walking, then this is the place for you. Seal View at the beach serves food and drinks all day. There’s a car park and toilets there too. Another one of our favourite beaches is Gorleston-on-Sea, just south of Gt Yarmouth. Jay Jays café on the lower promenade makes a good stop for a coffee or food.
Museums
Fancy a bit of culture? Then delve into the area’s rich maritime and fishing history by visiting the Time and Tide museum in Gt Yarmouth. The museum is housed in a converted Victorian herring curing works, and features hands on displays, puzzles, audio games, film shows and children’s activities. Winterton was heavily involved with the fishing industry, and many of the cottages in the village belonged to fishermen and you can also see many old net houses (where fishing nets were stored) as you wander around the village. The majority have now been converted to houses, but are usually long and narrow.
Outdoor Activities
If the weather is good, then you’ll want to be outdoors and Bewilderwood is the ideal thing for children and big kids of all ages. It’s full of zip wires, slides, rope walkways in the sky, mazes and lots of other activities set in the forest. There’s a choice of cafes there, or why not call in at nearby Horning which is a very pretty village on the Norfolk Broads with a couple of pubs and cafes.
Gardens and Wildlife
Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens in the village of Filby are open all year round. Renowned for its collection of Asian mammals, birds and reptiles, everything is set within the pleasantly landscaped grounds and gardens of Thrigby Hall. Attractions for all age groups include snow leopards, rare tigers, gibbons, deer otters, and crocodiles in a swamp house, avaries, waterfowl, gift shop & cafe. You could also visit Horsey to see the local colony of grey seals. There may still be some pups around in February.
Messing About on the Rivers
A visit to Norfolk wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Broads. There’s a choice of activities including walking, fishing, kayaking, boat hire, boat trips or even stand up paddle boarding! If boat hire or boat trips are your thing, then head towards Wroxham where there’s a choice of boat hire companies and trips. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more down to earth, have a look at Ross’s boat trips at Martham.
Norwich
If the weather’s not so good, then head into Norwich for a wider choice of indoor activities including two cinema multiplexes. Although we love the smaller Cinema City which is in the heart of the old city. The seats are very comfy, plus you can take wine from the bar in with you too! Whilst in Norwich, take time to visit stunning Norwich Cathedral and wander around the cloisters. There’s a great restaurant there too, plus a fabulous choice of eateries around the city.
If you’re still stuck for ideas then have a look the Explore Norfolk page on our website. Plus Visit Norfolk has a very good website with lots of great suggestions too. Enjoy!