Laurence Mitchell

Norfolk’s major selling point is undoubtedly its magnificent north coast, especially the beaches, salt marshes and tiny harbours that extend westwards from Cley-next-the -Sea. (By the way, make sure you get stuck into some Cromer crab – people around these parts reckon it's the best in the world. And who are we to disagree?) Lacking large resorts, this is an appealing area of picture-postcard villages where most visitors come to sail, walk or go birdwatching. The county capital, Norwich, with its Norman castle and cathedral, narrow lanes and plethora of medieval churches, is another prime attraction. Elsewhere, the first class wildlife and delightful villages and churches of the Norfolk Broads in the county’s north-east ensure that visitors can do much more than just pootle along the waterways on a boating holiday or enjoyable day boat trip from cheesy but cheerful Wroxham. As a rule, most Norfolk accommodation veers towards the traditional and comfortable rather than the modern and hip, with small, friendly independent hotels, B&Bs and pubs reflecting the wonderfully peaceful nature of this timeless county. The selection below offers our choice of some of the very places to stay in it. We think you’re going to like these. Happy holidaying! This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.