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History and heritage
Norfolk’s history is written into its streets, skylines and landscapes, from medieval market towns and grand estates to coastal heritage and stories shaped by the sea. Explore castles, churches and old trading places, then zoom in on the details, from historic lanes to museums that bring local life into focus. There’s also powerful 20th-century history across the county, with sites and memorials that connect Norfolk to wider national and international stories. Whether you’re after a single landmark or a full day of exploring, Norfolk makes it easy to step into the past without feeling stuck there.
History + Heritage Stories & Inspiration
Where to find Nelson in Norfolk
Posted: 2nd Apr 2026
‘I am myself a Norfolk man and glory in being so,’ said Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson of his native… ‘I am myself a Norfolk man and glory in being so,’ said Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson of his…
Where to find Nelson in Norfolk
Posted: 2nd Apr 2026
‘I am myself a Norfolk man and glory in being so,’ said Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson of his native…
What are Norwich Cathedral's top sights
Posted: 13th Mar 2026
Built more than 900 years ago, Norwich Cathedral dominates the skyline and is one of the top…
What are Norfolk's top historic houses
Posted: 12th Mar 2026
Norfolk’s history of wealthy landowners means a legacy of magnificent stately homes that are open…
Top History + Heritage Attractions
Wells and Walsingham Light Railway
Narrow Gauge steam railway. Timetable service operates everyday between March and October. Narrow Gauge steam railway. Timetable service operates everyday between March and October.
Wells and Walsingham Light Railway
Narrow Gauge steam railway. Timetable service operates everyday between March and October.
Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery
900 years of history, yours to discover 900 years of history, yours to discover
Mannington
Beautiful gardens with lake, trees and shrubs surround a medieval moated manor (not open). Feature… Beautiful gardens with lake, trees and shrubs surround a medieval moated manor (not open).…
Mannington
Beautiful gardens with lake, trees and shrubs surround a medieval moated manor (not open). Feature…
Cycle Breaks
Discover the very best of Suffolk on two wheels with this immersive, self-guided cycling adventure… Discover the very best of Suffolk on two wheels with this immersive, self-guided cycling…
Cycle Breaks
Discover the very best of Suffolk on two wheels with this immersive, self-guided cycling adventure…
Top History + Heritage Itineraries
Trending Items
Cycle Breaks
Discover the very best of Suffolk on two wheels with this immersive, self-guided cycling adventure… Discover the very best of Suffolk on two wheels with this immersive, self-guided cycling…
Cycle Breaks
Discover the very best of Suffolk on two wheels with this immersive, self-guided cycling adventure…
Ormesby Manor
Exclusively yours... Luxury self catering accommodation set in 12 acres of stunning parkland within… Exclusively yours... Luxury self catering accommodation set in 12 acres of stunning parkland…
Ormesby Manor
Exclusively yours... Luxury self catering accommodation set in 12 acres of stunning parkland within…
Castle Acre Priory
Explore one of the largest and best preserved monastic sites in England dating back to 1090. Explore one of the largest and best preserved monastic sites in England dating back to 1090.
Castle Acre Priory
Explore one of the largest and best preserved monastic sites in England dating back to 1090.
Washmeres Cottage - Houghton Hall Estate
Nestled among trees and overlooking a tranquil lake, this charming cottage is the perfect secluded… Nestled among trees and overlooking a tranquil lake, this charming cottage is the perfect…
Washmeres Cottage - Houghton Hall Estate
Nestled among trees and overlooking a tranquil lake, this charming cottage is the perfect secluded…
History + Heritage Events
Start Date
End Date
Can We Stop Killing Each Other?' exhibition series
Date: 20th Sept 2025 - 17th May 2026
History + Heritage Businesses
The English Distillery
Visit the home of the ‘World’s Best Single Malt Whisky’. This independent, family-owned distillery…
Wells and Walsingham Light Railway
Narrow Gauge steam railway. Timetable service operates everyday between March and October.
True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum (The North End Trust)
An independent social history Museum depicting the story of the North End fisherfolk.
Time and Tide Museum
A captivating journey through the rich maritime heritage of this vibrant coastal town.
Thursford Collection
Thursford Collection is open during the summer as a working museum of mechanical organs, Wurlitzer…
The Warehouse Antiques & Collectables
The largest selection of antiques and collectables in East Anglia with over 100 dealers and 90…
The Tolhouse Gaol
Discover the darker side of England’s history through crime and punishment.
NWT Hickling Broad and Marshes National Nature Reserve
The largest of the Norfolk Broads, NWT Hickling Broad is a year-round haven for many of the UK's…
Paul Dickson Tours
Paul Dickson Tours runs guided walking tours in Norwich, Cromer and the Broads National Park.
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