England's Secret Winter Hideaway For The Ideal Winter Cottage Break
Are you looking for a beautiful, quiet place for a winter break in England? Then North Norfolk may be the place for you. Many people will remember with affection the “Inspector Dalgliesh” TV series, most episodes of which were set in this tranquil and unspoilt area (although don't worry, we don't have quite so many murders as Inspector Dalgliesh encountered!)
When you visit north Norfolk, you travel in time and well as in space. It is rather like being back in the early 1960's. There are still old fashioned seaside resorts such as Sherringham and Bacton, offering wide sweeps of clean sandy beaches, fish and chip shops, cozy country pubs, delicious local seafood, and simple family entertainment.
The Norfolk Broads are unique in the UK, offering miles of idyllic rivers and broads for motor cruising, sailing and fishing. With a five mile per hour speed limit in most areas, raised to a daring eight miles an hour along the main rivers, it is the perfect place to unwind.
For those who love history, there are many beautiful churches to visit, in fact, Norfolk is sometimes called the county of churches. Many of them are over a thousand years old, and still used for regular worship. Imagine the feeling of history when you walk into one of these glorious buildings. There are also beautiful stately homes open to the public, such as Felbrigg, which also offers outdoor concerts featuring the likes of Sir Cliff Richard.
No visit to Norfolk is complete without a trip to Norwich, with its elegant shops and wonderful dining. The Theatre Royal has major touring companies throughout the year, as well as traditional pantomime over the Christmas and New Year season. Of course, the majestic Cathedral is a must for visitors, as is the Castle Museum. And Carrow Road is the home of Premiership football club Norwich City (“Come on you yellows!”) who host all the major clubs during the winter season – Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool and the like.
The best way to enjoy North Norfolk is by renting a cottage of your own. And if you have dogs, you will find some places offering free accommodation and unlimited numbers of dogs. The cottages around East Ruston, in one of the most charming parts of North Norfolk, are well known for their high quality and dog friendliness, not to mention the wonderful walks and local pubs with roaring fires, outstanding local beer and delicious local food.
No wonder Sandringham, in North Norfolk, is the Queen's favourite winter residence. For a winter break, North Norfolk offers the perfect combination of relaxation and entertainment, in one of the loveliest and least known parts of England.
