Heritage & Historical Norwich

Norwich Cathedral
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Norwich Cathedral
 One of the most popular mentions in our Trip Advisor reviews are the free guided tours that are offered at Norwich Cathedral. Thanks to the help of our volunteer guides, visitors are able to gain a greater insight into the 900 year old history of the Cathedral as they make their way around the building. Tours depart from the rear of the...
Cow Tower, Norwich
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Cow Tower, Norwich
One of the earliest purpose-built artillery blockhouses in England, this brick tower was built in about 1398-9 to command a strategic point in Norwich’s city defence. Managed by Norwich City Council - visit the heritage section of their visitor website for further information about the area. Before You Go Parking: No parking on site but...
BBC Norwich Tour
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BBC Norwich Tour
This is a fantastic chance to gain access to the rarely seen world behind the scenes of the famous TV and radio programmes produced and broadcast from BBC Norwich at The Forum. The tour includes a visit to the Look East TV studio and production gallery. BBC Radio Norfolk will be broadcasting live as you wander through the studios and the tour...
Norwich Castle & Museum
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Norwich Castle & Museum
One of the city’s most famous landmarks, Norwich Castle was built by the Normans as a Royal Palace 900 years ago. Now a museum and art gallery, it is home to some of the most outstanding collections of fine art, archaeology and natural history. Norwich Castle is packed with treasures to inspire and intrigue visitors of all ...
Norfolk Tank Museum
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Norfolk Tank Museum
The Norfolk Tank Museum is a collection of predominantly Cold War British military vehicles spanning the last six decades, ranging from the heavy weight Centurion Main Battle Tank to the Saladin Reconnaissance Vehicle, small arms, uniforms and artefacts. The Collection can be seen at various shows throughout East Anglia and on open days...
Blickling Hall
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Blickling Hall
Embark on a voyage of discovery and follow four centuries of history at Blickling, from the Boleyn family to the RAF and Second World War. Learn what life was like as a servant and hear the stories of the real people who kept Blickling going. Explore the Long Gallery, which holds the most important book collection in the National Trust....
The How Hill Trust
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The How Hill Trust
We are a small independent charity with the primary objective to promote, improve and advance public education of the unique environment of the Broads.  We offer a unique opportunity for people of all ages to experience and learn about the special environment of the Norfolk Broads.   We offer residential environmental education courses...
Burgh Castle
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Burgh Castle
Burgh Castle is the site of one of several Roman forts constructed to hold cavalry as a defence against Saxon raids up the rivers of the east and south coasts of southern Britain (the Saxon Shore). Possibly this was Gariannonum, a name that appears in a single source; the identification was once thought secure, but is now thought doubtful by...
ST OLAVE'S PRIORY
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ST OLAVE'S PRIORY
The wonderfully complete 14th century brick-vaulted refectory undercroft - later a cottage occupied until 1902 - of a small Augustinian priory. Read more about the history of the priory.  BEFORE YOU GO Parking: There is no car park for the site but our visitors are able to use the priory side of the car park at teh neighbouring...
Beccles and District Museum
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Beccles and District Museum
The museum is manned entirely by unpaid volunteers . Stewards, working to a rota and co-ordinated by Brian Catling, keep the museum running during open hours. Trustees, with the Chairman Ken Cracknell, Secretary Ian Hinton and Treasurer Bob Peck, look to the strategic planning and financing of the operation. Behind the scene workers include our...
Horsey Windpump
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Horsey Windpump
Restored five-storey drainage windpump The only National Trust property in the Norfolk Broads that is open regularly Fully restored historic drainage windpump Striking views across the Norfolk Broads and to the coast An internationally important estate for wildlife A premier birdwatching area The Horsey Estate was...
BERNEY ARMS WINDMILL
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BERNEY ARMS WINDMILL
Visit one of Norfolk's best and largest extant marsh mills, built to grind a constituent of cement and in use until 1948, for subsequently pumping water to drain surrounding marshland. Supported by the RSPB. BEFORE YOU GO Opening Times: Access to the mill is by pre-booked tour only. For further information please contact the RSPB at...
CAISTER ROMAN FORT
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CAISTER ROMAN FORT
foundations. Built around AD 200 for a unit of the Roman army and navy and occupied until the end of the 4th century.  Please note: Dogs on leads are welcome. OPENING TIMES 30 APRIL 2017 - 24 MARCH 2018 Open any reasonable time during daylight hours 25 MARCH 2018 ONWARDS Opening times will be available nearer the time
Somerleyton
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Somerleyton
 Somerleyton offers an unforgettable day out with plenty of activities in and around the Estate and Fritton Lake. For adults there are picnic areas, croquet, football, rounders, nine-hole golf course, fishing, horse-riding, rowing and guided boat trips on the lake. Should you wish to venture further afield we can also organise hot...
North Elmham Chapel
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North Elmham Chapel
Opening Times 30 April 2017 - 24 March 2018 Open any reasonable time during daylight hours 25 March 2018 onwards Opening times will be available nearer the time
RNLI Lifeboat Station Cromer Pier
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RNLI Lifeboat Station Cromer Pier
There are many aspects to the running of a lifeboat station. All RNLI stations around the British Isles are organised from Lifeboat Institution headquarters at Poole in Dorset, but they all have an individual identity, reflecting their own character, community and coastline. The Official page for supporters of the RNLI in Cromer Please support...
Binham Priory
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Binham Priory
Plan a Great Day Out Any visitor to Binham Priory should also take in Binham Market Cross, the site of an annual fair from the time the Priory was founded up until the 1950s. If you are interested in more Norman history in Norfolk, why not also visit the well-preserved Castle Acre Priory, or the impressive edifice of Plan a Great Day...
Binham Market Cross
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Binham Market Cross
Opening Times 29 April 2017 - 24 March 2018 Open any reasonable time during daylight hours 25 March 2018 onwards Opening times will be available nearer the time
Creake Abbey
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Creake Abbey
The ruined church of an Augustinian abbey, reduced in size after fire and plague. Please note: No dogs are allowed, except for guide dogs. Opening Times 1 May 2017 - 24 March 2018 Open any reasonable time during daylight hours 25 March 2018 onwards Opening times will be available nearer the time
Blakeney Guildhall
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Blakeney Guildhall
Before You Go Parking: There is limited on-street parking in High Street. There is a non-EH pay and display car park opposite the pedestrian access path to the Guidhall off The Quay. Access: There are some steps down into the Guildhall's undercroft so this area is not accessible to wheelchairs users. Facilities: There are no facilities on...
Castle Acre Priory
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Castle Acre Priory
This important Norfolk visitor attraction is one of the largest and best preserved monastic sites in England dating back to 1090. It was the home of the first Cluniac order of monks to England and the Cluniac love of decoration is everywhere reflected in the extensive ruins. There is much to see at the priory, including the...
Thetford Priory
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Thetford Priory
Plan a Great Day Out A short walk from the priory is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the only surviving priory of the Canons of the Holy Sepulchre in England. Just outside Thetford you can also find Thetford Warren Lodge which once protected game keepers and hunting parties against armed poachers. For more ideas of places to visit in the...
Framlingham Castle
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Framlingham Castle
Framlingham Castle is a magnificent 12th century fortress with a long and colourful past which makes a fascinating family day out in Suffolk. The castle was once the refuge of Mary Tudor before she became Queen in 1553 and visitors can now explore over 800 years of life at Framlingham Castle in the ‘From Powerhouse to...
Saxtead Green Post Mill
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Saxtead Green Post Mill
Saxtead Green Post Mill is a corn mill, whose whole body revolves on its base and is one of many built in Suffolk from the late 13th century. Though milling ceased in 1947, it is still in working order. Climb the stairs to various floors, which are full of fascinating mill machinery in the company of our audio tour.  Saxtead Green...
Weeting Castle
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Weeting Castle
The ruins of a substantial early medieval moated manor house, built in local flint. Before You Go Parking: There is a small lay-by next to the castle entrance and just in front of the village church. Access: There are a four steps up to the path to the castle entrance from the lay-by, and then two gates, one of which is a kissing gate. ...
LEISTON ABBEY
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LEISTON ABBEY
The mainly 14th-century remains of an abbey of Premonstratensian canons. Among Suffolk’s most impressive monastic ruins, with some spectacular architectural features. Managed by Pro Corda Trust - visit their website for further information. Read more about Leiston Abbey's history.  BEFORE YOU GO Parking: There is a gravel...
Museum of East Anglian Life
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Museum of East Anglian Life
-  Discover the history and natural world of East Anglia on our beautiful 75 acre site -  Explore nearly 3km of woodland and riverside nature trails. -  Learn about fascinating East Anglian crafts and traditional Gypsy culture -  Get steamed up with our powerful engines -  Meet our friendly animals including Suffolk Punch...
Sandringham
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Sandringham
Sandringham is the much-loved country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen, and has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs since 1862. The house, set in 24 hectares of stunning gardens, is perhaps the most famous stately home in Norfolk and is at the heart of the 8,000-hectare Sandringham Estate, 240 ...
Bury St Edmunds Abbey
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Bury St Edmunds Abbey
Located in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, the abbey was once one of the richest and most powerful Benedictine monasteries in England. Its remains are extensive and include the complete 14th century Great Gate and Norman Tower, as well as the impressive ruins and altered west front of the immense church. The relics of the martyred Anglo-Saxon king...
Bircham Windmill
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Bircham Windmill
Standing in the heart of Norfolk's undulating fields, Bircham Windmill now looks as it did over 100 years ago. At that time over 300 mills ground corn for horse & cattle feed and bread-making in Norfolk. Today, very few windmills are left, and Bircham Mill is considered one of the best still remaining: it is the only windmill in working order...
Castle Rising Castle
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Castle Rising Castle
Castle Rising Castle is one of the most famous 12th Century castles in England. The stone keep, built in around 1140 AD, is amongst the finest surviving examples of its kind anywhere in the country and, together with the massive surrounding earthworks, ensures that Rising is a castle of national importance. In its time Rising has served as a...
Orford Ness National Nature Reserve - Woodbridge
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Orford Ness National Nature Reserve - Woodbridge
Internationally important nature reserve, with a fascinating 20th-century military history Wild and remote extremity of eastern England Largest vegetated shingle spit in Europe Internationally important flora and fauna Site of secret Cold War military testing Poignant symbol of 20th-century warfare
Orford Castle
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Orford Castle
Discover one of England’s most complete and unusual keeps at this fascinating visitor attraction in Suffolk. The unique polygonal tower keep of Orford Castle, stands beside the pretty town and former port which Henry II also developed here. The castle is remarkably intact allowing visitors to explore from the basement, through...
The Science Project Discover Centre
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The Science Project Discover Centre
 Jam packed with fun, there's something for the whole family at Snakes and Ladders. Added to the huge three-tiered climbing frame, there's slides, ball ponds, tunnels and rope climbs. Plus discover soft play areas for little ones, dedicated zones for under 5s and more. And when we say the whole family, we mean adults too! We provide all your...
Ickworth House
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Ickworth House
Unusual Georgian house and landscape park Extraordinary oval house built by the eccentric 4th Earl Important colections of paintings, silver and furniture Idyllic 'Capability' Brown park land – acres of tranquil beauty Adventure playground, woodland trim trail and family cycle route Park and Garden activity back packs...
Chantry Park
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Chantry Park
Play is an essential part of every child's life and is vital for their development. Through play, children learn about themselves and the world around them. The play facilities in Ipswich have been designed to encourage a child's physical, social and creative development.
Sutton Hoo
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Sutton Hoo
This hauntingly beautiful 91-hectare (255-acre) estate, with far-reaching views over the River Deben, is home to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time. Walk around the ancient burial mounds and discover the incredible story of the ship burial of an Anglo-Saxon king and his treasured possessions. Come face to face...
Lindsey St James's Chapel
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Lindsey St James's Chapel
A pretty thatched 13th-century chapel with lancet windows, likely to have been built for use by residents of the nearby Castle of Lindsey. Read more about the history of the chapel. Before You Go Parking: Parking is informal and next to the highway - be aware that vehicles may be passing. Facilities: There are no facilities at the chapel but...
Kentwell Hall
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Kentwell Hall
Kentwell Hall is a stately home in Long Melford, Suffolk, England. It includes the hall, outbuildings, and a rare breeds farm and gardens.
WWT Welney Wetland Centre
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WWT Welney Wetland Centre
Welney Wetland Centre is the place to watch one of nature’s most magical sights – the winter gathering of up to 9,000 swans and ducks arriving from the Arctic. But the centre isn’t just a winter destination, with vast flocks of wetlands wildlife to spot throughout the year - including summer waders, dragonflies and...
Isleham Priory Church
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Isleham Priory Church
Isleham Priory Church is the best example in England of a small Norman Benedictine priory church, surviving in a surprisingly unaltered state despite later conversion into a barn. Before You Go Dogs: Assistance dogs only. Opening Times 1 May 2017 - 24 March 2018 Any reasonable time during daylight hours. Contact the key keeper, Mrs R...
The National Horseracing Museum
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The National Horseracing Museum
  The story of the people and horses involved in racing from its Royal origins to Lester Piggott, Frankie Dettori and other modern heroes. Highlights include: the head of Persimmon, a great Royal Derby winner in 1896; a special display about Fred Archer, the late Victorian jockey who committed suicide, which features the pistol...
Moulton Packhorse Bridge
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Moulton Packhorse Bridge
BEFORE YOU GO The monument is next to the highway - be aware that vehicles may be passing
Ely Museum
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Ely Museum
Ely Museum, a bright and friendly local history museum, located in the Bishop's Gaol in the centre of the historical city of Ely. The Museum is the history centre for the Isle of Ely & the Fens and it takes you on a journey through time from prehistory to the twentieth century. Displays include original prison cells, fossils that can be...
Ely Cathedral
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Ely Cathedral
Ely Cathedral, a living place of worship, is a beautiful, historic building and a unique education resource. Welcome to Ely Cathedral's website which I hope will give you a glimpse of the wonders and glories that the Cathedral has to offer. Worship has been offered to Almighty God on this site for nearly 1400 years and the Cathedral...
Clare Castle Country Park
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Clare Castle Country Park
Situated to the south of the picturesque, historic town of Clare, just two minutes' walk from the town centre, Clare Castle Country Park is a beautiful quiet area to relax, play, get close to nature and learn about Clare's fascinating history. The park contains the remains of the 13th Century stone castle keep set upon its 70ft high...
LANDGUARD FORT
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LANDGUARD FORT
Landguard Fort defends the approach to Harwich Harbour, a safe haven for shipping. It was the site of the last opposed seaborne invasion of England, by the Dutch in 1667, who were repulsed by the Royal Marines in their first land battle. The current fort was built in the 18th century, and modified in the 19th century, with substantial additional...
Kingfisher Leisure Centre
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Kingfisher Leisure Centre
Kingfisher Leisure Centre located in Sudbury town centre has so much to offer, where do we start! We opened back in 1987 and the centre still looks fresh and welcoming today, we offer something for all the family, we are leading the way to active living… Our facilities include: The Gym-You can tone up, get fit and stay healthy in our...
Exterior any reasonable daylight hours. Interior daily 10am-4pm, contact key keeper for access.
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Exterior any reasonable daylight hours. Interior daily 10am-4pm, contact key keeper for access.
Two porticoed classical towers, which stood at each end of a grandiose but highly unconventional Georgian church, designed by Robert Adam in 1776. OPENING TIMES 30 APRIL 2017 - 24 MARCH 2018 Exterior any reasonable daylight hours, Interior daily 10:00 - 16:00. Key available from The Mistley Thorn Hotel, High Street, Mistley CO11 1HE
This section covers heritage sites such as  castles and stately homes in the Norwich Region, these historic buildings usually date back hundreds even thousands of years and are real educational experiences for the whole family. Topics covered include the middle ages, political and royalty evolution spanning time and history. Or just a great day out at lush tree lined grounds and flowered gardens and take in the sights of wonderful buildings and castles. Tours of these buildings are widely available and worth consideration for an in depth knowledge of the sites you wish to visit. Some sites like stately homes have gardens, animals and lots of other things to see and do.