The East of England comprises the four counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex and is close to London.
It is well-connected with Europe and the rest of the world through London Stansted Airport, the International Gateway to the East of England. There is also Norwich International Airport with multiple daily flights from Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam and London Southend Airport. Stena Line operates two daily ferries from the Hook of Holland to Harwich.
The region has an excellent rail service with Greater Anglia, including the Stansted Express.
Norwich Castle is a medieval royal fortification in the city of Norwich, in the English county of Norfolk. William the Conqueror (1066–1087) ordered its construction in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest of England. The castle was used as a gaol from 1220 to 1887. In 1894 the Norwich Museum moved to Norwich Castle. The museum and art gallery holds significant objects from the region, especially works of art, archaeological finds and natural history specimens.
The historic national importance of the Norwich Castle site was recognised in 1915 with its listing as a scheduled monument. The castle buildings, including the keep, attached gothic style gatehouse and former prison wings, were given Grade I listed building status in 1954. The castle is one of the city's twelve heritage sites.
Norwich’s magnificent Cathedral is open to visitors of all faiths and none. Set in 44 acres of beautiful grounds it’s an awe-inspiring, welcoming building with spectacular architecture, magnificent art and a fascinating history.
One of the finest complete Romanesque cathedrals in Europe, with the second tallest spire and largest monastic cloisters in England, the cathedral houses more than a thousand beautiful medieval roof boss sculptures and a plethora of art.
Remains of an abbey church dating from 13thC, including presbytery and north transept with chapels. In a meadow of forty acres, on the right of the road leading from North Creake to Burnham Market, a house of Austin Canons was founded in 1206, in honour of the Blessed Virgin, by Alice, widow of Sir Robert de Nerford, governor of Dover Castle.
Southwold, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Suffolk, England. Known for its stunning coastal beauty and rich history, Southwold offers visitors a delightful blend of charm, tranquility, and vibrant attractions. Explore the town's iconic lighthouse, a striking landmark that has guided ships for centuries, or wander along the charming Georgian and Victorian streets lined with colorful cottages and boutique shops. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the renowned Adnams Brewery, where you can sample their award-winning ales and discover the secrets of brewing. Nature enthusiasts will be enchanted by the golden beaches, pristine dunes, and the vast expanse of the Southwold Common nature reserve, offering endless opportunities for leisurely walks and birdwatching. With its delightful blend of natural beauty, historical allure, and warm hospitality, Southwold is a captivating destination that promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Hindringham Hall is the most delicious little moated manor house straight out of a story book with its medieval moat and fishponds, working walled vegetable garden, formal and informal borders wrapped around a brick and flint Tudor Hall. The current owners have developed the gardens over the past 30 years and open to visitors twice a week between April and October. Make time to walk round the medieval fishponds and take tea in the Cafe beside the moat, smell the roses, watch the swans, listen to the birdsong and enjoy the peace and beauty of this special garden
Home to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time, Sutton Hoo is where you will find stories of kings, mysterious mounds and buried treasure.
The 255-acre estate of Sutton Hoo, is the site of an Anglo-Saxon royal burial site dating back 1300 years. In 1939 on the eve of the Second World War, archaeologists made a remarkable discovery as they opened the largest burial mound and found an undisturbed Anglo-Saxon ship burial.
Discover this amazing story on a visit to Sutton Hoo, a great day out for the whole family. Explore the site to find out all about the Anglo-Saxon community and this historic discovery whilst having the opportunity to view replicas of some of the treasure found, including the iconic Sutton Hoo helmet. You can also visit Tranmer House, the former home of Edith Pretty to see images of the excavation of the burial ship and find out more about this wonderful archaeological story.
The north Norfolk coastline is a unique area of remarkable beauty, diversity and scientific importance and is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This means it is one of the UK’s most cherished and outstanding landscapes and has a legal status to ensure its preservation. The north Norfolk coastline therefore offers stunning views, wonderful wildlife and nature, beautiful beaches and coastline to enjoy.
The AONB along the north Norfolk coast, includes Hunstanton, Wells-next-the-Sea, Blakeney, Sheringham, Cromer and Mundesley. In 1968, it was inscribed in law that this stretch of the north Norfolk coast would be protected as an AONB. The 56 miles of coastline is rich in wildlife and in beauty and is only one of 46 in the country.
The elegant resort of Hunstanton is the ideal base to enjoy Norfolk’s superb coastline. Hunstanton, or ‘Hunston’ as it is known locally, is renowned for its unique striped cliffs and magnificent sunsets, made special by its position as the only west-facing resort on the east coast.
The seaside town began as a purposely-built resort in 1846 and retains its Victorian charm and character to this day, remaining a popular holiday destination for visitors of all ages. From buzzing family activities such as Crazy Golf, Pitch-and-Putt, and the Oasis Leisure Centre to the tranquil Esplanade Gardens there is something for everyone. The town’s array of gardens are especially delightful during the spring and summer months, and you can follow a self-guided Horticultural Trail to make sure you experience them all.
Hunstanton’s excellent beach offers ideal conditions for playing on the sand, exploring rock pools, and enjoying the sea.
Halesworth is a town that prides itself on offering a traditional shopping experience. It is centred around the Thoroughfare, a pedestrianised area where many buildings date back to the sixteenth century. Perfectly located for exploring The Suffolk Coast and countryside, in Halesworth you are ideally situated to travel to the many coastal resorts, attractions, villages and towns.
Just to the east of the town centre is the largest Millennium Green in the country – 50 acres of wildlife-friendly grazing marsh and flood plain with footpaths, an all-weather track, great views, a hide and a community orchard.
Africa Alive Zoological Reserve is a wildlife park located in Kessingland, Suffolk, about 2 miles south of Lowestoft. It houses thousands of animals from around the world, primarily focusing on Africa and Madagascar.
Set in over 100 acres of stunning countryside, Africa Alive Zoological Reserve is the perfect place to set your sights on some of Africa’s most iconic animals, whilst learning more about their natural instincts, habitats and conservation. The spectacular centrepiece of the reserve is the ‘Plains of Africa’ display where guests can see five species of African Savannah animals roaming together, including majestic Giraffe and heavyweight Rhinos. The Discovery Centre operates regular animal handling sessions for a chance to get hands on with some of the smaller animals.
The reserve also offers a great outdoor play area, as well as restaurants, free parking, disabled facilities and a gift shop.
Situated inland on the River Waveney, Beccles sits at the southern point of the Suffolk & Norfolk Broads. Beccles offers a wealth of diversity, combining history with modern-day culture. The town is surrounded by fantastic views of the Southern Broads and set amongst rolling countryside. The town centre provides a blend of independent shops, restaurants and other services that will make a trip to Beccles memorable.
Specific information about local activities is listed in each property. For visitors with particular interests, we also recommend the following websites: