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History and heritage
Norfolk’s history is written into its streets, skylines and landscapes, from medieval market towns and grand estates to coastal heritage and stories shaped by the sea. Explore castles, churches and old trading places, then zoom in on the details, from historic lanes to museums that bring local life into focus. There’s also powerful 20th-century history across the county, with sites and memorials that connect Norfolk to wider national and international stories. Whether you’re after a single landmark or a full day of exploring, Norfolk makes it easy to step into the past without feeling stuck there.
History + Heritage Stories & Inspiration
Where to find Nelson in Norfolk
Posted: 2nd Apr 2026
‘I am myself a Norfolk man and glory in being so,’ said Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson of his native… ‘I am myself a Norfolk man and glory in being so,’ said Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson of his…
Where to find Nelson in Norfolk
Posted: 2nd Apr 2026
‘I am myself a Norfolk man and glory in being so,’ said Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson of his native…
What are Norwich Cathedral's top sights
Posted: 13th Mar 2026
Built more than 900 years ago, Norwich Cathedral dominates the skyline and is one of the top…
What are Norfolk's top historic houses
Posted: 12th Mar 2026
Norfolk’s history of wealthy landowners means a legacy of magnificent stately homes that are open…
Top History + Heritage Attractions
Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery
900 years of history, yours to discover 900 years of history, yours to discover
Mannington
Beautiful gardens with lake, trees and shrubs surround a medieval moated manor (not open). Feature… Beautiful gardens with lake, trees and shrubs surround a medieval moated manor (not open).…
Mannington
Beautiful gardens with lake, trees and shrubs surround a medieval moated manor (not open). Feature…
The English Distillery
Visit the home of the ‘World’s Best Single Malt Whisky’. This independent, family-owned distillery… Visit the home of the ‘World’s Best Single Malt Whisky’. This independent, family-owned…
The English Distillery
Visit the home of the ‘World’s Best Single Malt Whisky’. This independent, family-owned distillery…
North Norfolk Railway
From Sheringham to Holt, the North Norfolk Railway runs through the county's most stunning coastal… From Sheringham to Holt, the North Norfolk Railway runs through the county's most stunning…
North Norfolk Railway
From Sheringham to Holt, the North Norfolk Railway runs through the county's most stunning coastal…
Top History + Heritage Itineraries
Trending Items
Voted The Sunday Times' Best Place to Live 2026, the city of Norwich in Norfolk, with its medieval… Voted The Sunday Times' Best Place to Live 2026, the city of Norwich in Norfolk, with its…
Thursford Collection
Thursford Collection is open during the summer as a working museum of mechanical organs, Wurlitzer… Thursford Collection is open during the summer as a working museum of mechanical organs,…
Thursford Collection
Thursford Collection is open during the summer as a working museum of mechanical organs, Wurlitzer…
What are the best churches and cathedrals in…
Norfolk has the largest concentration of medieval churches in the world, more than 650, the biggest… Norfolk has the largest concentration of medieval churches in the world, more than 650, the…
What are the best churches and cathedrals in Norfolk
Norfolk has the largest concentration of medieval churches in the world, more than 650, the biggest…
Cromer Museum
Discover the geological history of Norfolk’s coastline in these charismatic fishermen’s cottages. Discover the geological history of Norfolk’s coastline in these charismatic fishermen’s…
Cromer Museum
Discover the geological history of Norfolk’s coastline in these charismatic fishermen’s cottages.
History + Heritage Events
Start Date
End Date
Can We Stop Killing Each Other?' exhibition series
Date: 20th Sept 2025 - 17th May 2026
Defending Second World War Thetford: Not Just Dad’s Army Talk -Chris Kolonko
Date: 9th Jun - 9th Jun 2026
History + Heritage Businesses
The Tolhouse Gaol
Discover the darker side of England’s history through crime and punishment.
Wherry Yacht Charter
Sit back and enjoy the tranquillity of sailing on a historical wherry yacht. Join one of the many…
Wells and Walsingham Light Railway
Narrow Gauge steam railway. Timetable service operates everyday between March and October.
True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum (The North End Trust)
An independent social history Museum depicting the story of the North End fisherfolk.
Time and Tide Museum
A captivating journey through the rich maritime heritage of this vibrant coastal town.
Thursford Collection
Thursford Collection is open during the summer as a working museum of mechanical organs, Wurlitzer…
The Warehouse Antiques & Collectables
The largest selection of antiques and collectables in East Anglia with over 100 dealers and 90…
Paul Dickson Tours
Paul Dickson Tours runs guided walking tours in Norwich, Cromer and the Broads National Park.
Sainsbury Centre
The Sainsbury Centre is a world-class art museum with a unique perspective on how art can foster…
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