Sustainable Things To Do In Norfolk

By Sophie Bucknall

2 years ago

From seal spotting to art gallery appreciation


From sandy beaches to sweeping countryside, Norfolk’s landscapes are vast, undulating, and undeniably beautiful. There are plenty of lovely hotels if you’re visiting for a staycation, and plenty of things to do even if you’re only around for a daycation. If you’re looking to add a green edge to your visit, here are some sustainable things to do in Norfolk.

Read the C&TH Responsible Tourism Guide

Sustainable Things To Do In Norfolk

Grey seal during annual moulting. Shedding its brown skin fur. This animal is part of he Horsey wild seal colony on the East coast of the UK.

Spot Seals at Horsey Beach

Horsey beach is a great place to spot seals lolloping about on the sand. Watch from afar up on the dunes during pupping season (October to February), or stroll along the sand during the rest of the year – just make sure you keep a ten metre distance at all times. explorenorfolkuk.co.uk

Visit GroundWork Gallery

GroundWork is a gallery in King’s Lynn dedicated to art and the environment. Its mission is to facilitate a more environmentally engaged society by putting on nature-focused exhibitions and events, and working with several organisations such as the Woodland Trust and climate change groups. The latest exhibition, Deep Water, features eight artists exploring water’s wildlife, pollution, dangers and beauty. groundworkgallery.com

CRNKWA 'Black Prince', a steam locomotive travelling past Weybourne windmill on the North Norfolk Railway (NNR), also known as the 'Poppy Line'

All Aboard to Explore the Norfolk Broads

Forget the road trip – opt for a more sustainable way to see the best of the Norfolk countryside. This delightful steam train tour will let you see the county’s pretty waterways, timeless seaside towns and historic stately homes from a different viewpoint. It includes five days of rail travel and a guided tour of the Broads, the Norfolk Wildlife Trust and the Queen’s own country retreat, Sandringham. greatrail.com

Stay in One of Mill Farm’s Eco Barns

Perfect for a romantic retreat or a group holiday, these gorgeous cottages offer luxurious eco-conscious holidays. Located in Norfolk’s Winterton-on-Sea, the cottages are just a short walk from the beach. Collect free-range eggs from the chickens, pick seasonal fruit and veg from the gardens, or head off on a walk with your dog in the flower meadow. millfarm-ecobarns.co.uk

Norwich Market bustling with people

Potter Around Norwich Market

Norwich has one of Britain’s largest outdoor markets, which is dedicated to minimising its use of plastic. Browse the stalls brimming with fresh and local fruit and veg, second hand clothes, vintage records and local Norfolk ales, cider and wine. norwich.gov.uk

Featured image: Aerial view of Cromer, Norfolk (via Getty)