Some Local Attractions:
All Saints Church, Ashwicken
Situated within easy walking distance, nestled within fields just behind the top of Rookery Farm, this church dates back to the late thirteenth century. Particular features include the millenium window depicting various flowers throughout the months and seasons, and a special engraved glass panel within a porch window celebrating the late Queen's Diamond Jubilee.
Bawsey Country Park
Just up the road from the campsite is the beautiful Bawsey Country Park. Once an old sand quarry, this park is now home to many lakes, woods and idyllic scenery. Perfect for walks and picnics. Alternatively the on-site cafe provides hot food and even special treats for canine family members. Many events are held here throughout the year. For up-to-date information please see www.bawseycountrypark.co.uk.
Please note that swimming in the lakes is not permitted.
Bircham Windmill
Built in 1846 as a Norfolk Corn Mill, Bircham Windmill is now a treasured Windmill museum with plenty to do and see including an onsite bakery, tearoom, gift shop, play area, pet animals and family bakery. Children are able to make their own bread amongst many other activities. Plenty of fun for all ages.
Blickling Hall
Set in the beautiful Bure Meadows, National Trust owned Blickling Hall is a Jacobean Mansion of breathtaking beauty. With formal gardens and historic parkland, Blickling is a great place to explore on foot or on bike. Dogs are very welcome in the 4600+ acre parkland, however only assistance dogs are allowed in the house, formall garden or East Wing.
Castle Acre and West Acre
About 15 minutes car ride from the campsite lie the historic villages of Castle Acre and West Acre. Both have much to offer in terms of history, beauty and culture. Castle Acre Priory is well known as being one of the best preserved and largest monastic sites in England. The village also plays host to river walks, Castle Acre Castle and the old Bailey Gate with shops, pub, playarea, cafe and chip shop within its charming village centre.
The neighbouring village of West Acre is famous for its river and fords and has a rich variety of habitats. The village also has its own Priory, Church, open air theatre, arts workshop and pub.
Both villages are great places to explore especially on foot with or without a picnic.
Castle Rising
Only a 15 minute drive from the campsite,steeped in history the quaint village of Castle Rising is well worth a visit. Most notably, built in 1138, Castle Rising Castle, is proud to be known as 'one of the largest, best preserved and most lavishly decorated keeps in England'. Many historical re-enactments are held here throughout the year and make for a fantastic day out where history is truly brought alive! Visit www.castlerising.co.uk for more information.
Gayton
The thriving village of Gayton is situated just a few miles from Ashwicken and has plenty to offer such as petrol station/shop/post office, hair dressers, fish and chip shop, butchers with onsite delicatessen and the Hot Hut takeaway. The local pub, The Crown Inn, is open daily and serves an array of hot food including lunches and evening meals. Local features also include St. Nicholas' Church and a well equipped playarea.
Gooderstone Water Gardens
A thoroughly enchanting garden with many pituresque spots to relax and unwind close to nature. Features include a natural trout stream, 13 bridges, nature trail, ponds, bird hides and lots of beautiful plants and trees. There are flat grassy paths and plenty of seating around the site. The water gardens also have their own tearoom or alternatively visitors are welcome to take their own picnic.
King's Lynn
The nearby town of King's Lynn has a rich maritime history and was once the third largest port in England. The town offers many sites and attractions and a visit to the tourist information office located in the town hall is highly recommended.
North Norfolk Coast
The North Norfolk Coast offers 45 miles of beautiful coast line with many award-winning beaches and market towns and villages along the way. The Wells - Walsingham light railway makes for an ideal day trip out or why not explore the busy seaside town and fayre at Hunstanton. Many eateries are also available offering locally sourced food or maybe take a boat ride out to see the local seals and birdlife. The North Norfolk coast has so much to offer with culture, history, walking and nature in abundance. A coast hopper bus service runs daily from King's Lynn bus station and is an ideal way to explore the vast coastline. Bus stops to get to King's Lynn can be found at the top of Church Lane or East Winch Road where it meets the B1145 and are about 1 mile from the campsite.
Norwich
Known as the 'City of Stories' and once a Norman stronghold, Norwich city is full of culture and history. Situated on a river there is much natural beauty and places of inspiration. With over 90 cafes, restaurants and shops Norwich City is ideal for a day out. Situated about 1 hour from the campsite, parking available within the city centre.
www.visitnorwich.co.uk for more information
Oxburgh Hall
Built in 1482 this manor house surrounded by its tranquil moat is now a National Trust treasure. Enjoy looking around the house or take a stroll in one of the formal gardens. The estate also offers further walks along the River Gadder, through woodland and out into beautiful natural open meadows. Oxburgh Hall has a cafe onsite offering warm food and cakes, second hand bookshop, plant sales and general shop.
Pensthorpe Nature Reserve
Situated in Fakenham, Pensthorpe offers a full day out for all the family. Enjoy many walks through woodland, beautiful gardens with many sculptures, natural meadows and lakes. Feed the birds, watch the flamingos, visit the many bird hides or just take a book and relax. There is a vast outdoor childrens area complete with a shallow stream and an indoor playarea. Many activities and trails are held here throughout the year. Additional facilities include a large cafe with indoor and outdoor seating, extensive gift shop and much more besides. For more information see www.pensthorpe.com
Peterborough
Situated about one hour west of Ashwicken, The busy city of Peterborough is one where modern culture sits comfortaably alongside ancient history. Known for its shopping, beautiful Norman Cathedral, vibrant theatre scene, history and many realxing green parks, Peterborough makes for a full day out.
Sandringham Royal Estate
This iconic royal estate is only 15 minutes from the campsite. The Estate has been the home of British Monarchs for over five generations and offers a full fun day out for all the family. Visit the house, formal gardens, St Mary Magdalene Church or take a walk around the vast Royal parkland. Children will be delighted with the well designed playarea featuring a mock water tower amongst other superb structures! There is also a large tearoom and gift shop and the new addition of a mini golf course!