More important than being a leading change robe brand, the Sundfœrr folk are a family. And if there's one thing this family knows A LOT about it is places to go and stuff to do in north Norfolk. From our north Norfolk base near Wells and Blakeney, what we are about to impart here might not be new to some, but to others these are pieces of fun, chill and sanctuary amongst the hubbub of this gorgeous, popular tourist hotspot.
Warham Camp Iron Age Fort
Just south of Warham village is this perfect picnic spot. Often times, this ancient site is completely empty. And a point of note is the possibility grazing cattle!
In no hurry to get anywhere fast, the River Stiffkey ambles by and is good for a paddle. There’s a few low-hanging trees for a quality climb to keep children (and dads who have yet to grow up) entertained, not to mention the hill and barrow of the fort being a great place for a walk, run about and game of it.
Note: there is no car park and only space for a few cars by the single track road.
Railway walk from Little Walsingham to Basilica of Our Lady of Walsingham
Little Walsingham is immensely pretty in itself but like this article isn't about changing robes, we’re not here to talk about the village! Parking at Mill Car Park in Little Walsingham, head south on Coker’s Hill and then up Station Road to the old railway line then head south along the path of the old railway line. There are a few benches along the track, and occasional places just off path to stop and picnic.
On the trackway you have a thirty minute picturesque, and near desolate, off-road walk to the Basilica. The main Basilica buildings are new by the standards of ancient church buildings. However outside and in, Slipper Chapel is far older and particularly pretty. If you are not religiously inclined, just be respectful of those that are and sup up the peace of this special place. Route back to the car via the railway path.
Creek Jumping at Stiffkey Salt Marsh
Depending on your dexterity, be prepared to get wet or muddy! The marshes at Stiffkey are a great place for a wander and a picnic and, because there’s no beach or sea access, this little spot is often quiet. Head for the Highland Creek Campsite.
Just beyond the entrance to the camp site is Stiffkey Salt Marshes camp site. Even at low tide there are always pools to jump! Our children have always loved a ‘run up and jump’ to test their abilities and the sea lavender is beautiful under foot. At high tide you can paddle board here too....last time, I took an unplanned plunge and lost my sunnies but after feeling around for 10 minutes with my feet, I fished them out.
Look Out point at Sheringham Park
On Google Maps this is called a ‘Viewing Gazebo’. To us it’s a lot of steps to a look out point that is just above the tree canopy. You can either park you car at Sheringham Park National Trust carpark and take a walk through the gardens, or (a little nearer), park at North Norfolk Railway Weybourne Station. The look out enshrouded by trees so keep an out eye out for the signposted pathway.
I’ve not counted them but there are A LOT of steps. First on the pathway and then the iron structure itself but view to Weybourne and Cley are worth it with a steam train chugging past are worth it. Time it for sunset for total awe.
Bayfield Hall to the ford at Glandford
Next to Bayfield Hall nestles the wonderful Natural Surroundings wild flower gardens. This isn’t free, but well worth a stop in to see how they have worked with nature to create a haven for wildlife and for their amazing cafe.
The free bit is from the walk from there to Glandford. This walk takes you across a field (sometimes with cattle) and then alongside the river Glaven, north to Glandford. The ford is a great place for young and old to have a splash in the water and there are places along the river to stop for a picnic or laze in the sunshine. Fan out the best dyrobe alternative, your Sundfœrr change robe.....lay back.....and breathe.
Rock pooling at West Runton, East Runton and Cromer
Possibly the best way for small people to lose hours of time on the smallest of things! Tiny crabs, shrimp, anemones….they are all here on the beaches at West Runton and East Runton and west beach of Cromer. Beware that the rocks can be slippery and the rock pools are only really accessible at lower tide times. Optional is a net and bucket for kids to collect this and that as they go....and obvs a Sundfœrr change robe to keep away any north sea breeze.
Remember that water is great fun but can be hazardous. Have floatation devices for those less confident around water and wet shoes are really good for a better grip and keep feet safe from sharp stones.
