Explore Norfolk’s Historic Buildings with Glaven Valley: A Journey through Time
Norfolk takes great pride in its rich heritage of historic buildings and stately homes. Such a legacy attests to a unique connection with England’s past, from splendid 18th-century manor houses to meticulously preserved medieval churches, magnificent traditional country estates to stunning Norman architecture. For fans of Downton Abbey, the county offers several immersive experiences in its stately homes!
Sandringham House and Gardens
Spread across 600 acres of breath-taking land, Sandringham House and Gardens serves as the Royal Family’s private country retreat. Welcoming visitors to explore its expansive informal gardens, there are guided tours available which showcase the formal North Garden, peaceful stream walk and stunning Queen Alexandria’s Summerhouse. There are also scenic trails for cyclists and walkers – making a memorable day out for all of the family, canine companions included! The ground floor country house rooms were once frequented by the Royal Family, and are now open to public viewing for a glimpse into royal life through personal ornaments, portraits and furniture that evoke the history of their time spent there. Glaven Valley has a great selection of holiday cottages in easy reach of Sandringham.
Blicking Hall
If you are seeking an authentic look at Norfolk’s heritage where time seems to have stood still, look no further than Blickling Estate. An unforgettable experience steeped in history, a visit to this stately home, once the residence of the Boleyn family, Blickling Hall was handed over to the National Trust in 1940. If you are captivated by the political machinations of the Second World War, then Blickling Estate is a perfect day out. There are many holiday cottages within easy reach of Blickling, enabling visitors to make the most of their time in Norfolk and immerse themselves in the rich and beautiful history that this county has to offer.
Holkham Hall
Nestled on the stunning rugged coastline of the North Norfolk Coast, Holkham Hall features 25000 acres of diverse landscape in which to while away an afternoon. Wander through tranquil nature trails and spot local wildlife, explore the beautiful walled garden or survey the grand 18th century Palladian-style house from a hired boat on Holkham Lake and learn the story of the estate in an interactive exhibition. For families – there is a thrilling play area with a spectacular tree house, high level walk ways, rope ladder and for the more daring – a zipwire!
Houghton Hall
Britain’s First Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole, took residence in the newly built Palladian mansion Houghton Hall in the 1720’s. From there, he observed the herd of white fallow deer which still roam the grounds and can captivate visitor's attention today. The award-winning walled garden, including a visionary doubled-sided herbaceous border, a formal rose parterre, a Mediterranean garden and a kitchen garden – is not the only draw. With an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures, by artists including Anish Kapoor and Rachel Whiteread, the estate offers an intricate blend of innovation and traditional, appealing to both modern and classical art enthusiasts alike.
Felbrigg Hall
Felbrigg Hall captivates visitors with its seamless blend of natural beauty within its expansive parkland and the tranquillity and warmth of its lived-in interiors, where it tells a moving story of 4 families and their deep connection with the estate. This striking contrast of the vast Norfolk landscape and the personal touches indoors, evokes an absolute sense of peace and serenity for all who visit.
Oxburgh Hall
Oxburgh Hall follows the fate of the Bedingfield family from its bleak medieval origins in 1482 to the splendour of the Victorian era. Early Mortlake tapestries and rare embroidery by Mary Queen of Scots create a dramatic mood transporting visitors back to some of the most thrilling moments in British history.
Mannington Hall and Garden
At Mannington Hall and Garden, a dazzling array of roses flourish in the gardens of this moated manor, purchased by Lord Walpole in the 18th century. Mentioned in the 1086 Domesday Book, Mannington boasts a remarkarble lineage passed from an early King of England and a Norman nobleman before reaching the Walpole family.
Book your next trip to Norfolk and make sure you have time to take in some of these beautiful buildings and their stories during your stay.