An Introduction to Norfolk

Norfolk is in the most easterly county of England and is famous formost the waterways that criss-cross the landscape. The region known as the Norfolk Broads is one of Britain's National Parks, (although it extends into Suffolk as well) and is Britain's most varied, attractive and important wetland habitat. It contains many sites of scientific and natural interest of not only national, but also international importance; most especially because of its enormous bird populations, both native and migratory. In 1989 it was at last given the status of a National Park and placed under the control of the new Broads Authority.

The county town is the cathedral city of Norwich which is a distinguished yet lively with plenty to see. The Cathedral is one of the finest complete Romanesque buildings in Europe

Before the Norman Conquest of 1066, Norwich was one of the largest towns in England. The conquerors built a castle and a cathedral, and established a new market place which is still in use today.

In 1194 Norwich was granted the status of a city and grew in size and wealth during the Middle Ages. It was the principal market for one of the most densely populated parts of England and by the late fourteenth century was the chief centre of worsted manufacture. It remained one of the most important textile manufacturing centres until the nineteenth century. Despite the damage done to the city during this and other rebellions, and heavy bombing during World War II, Norwich has survived the ravages of time well. Fortunately the most important historic buildings escaped severe damage, but some areas were badly hit. Much of historic interest remains within the boundaries of its ancient walls.

The county has a number of stately homes, which includes the Royal residence of Sandringham (although less grand than other Royal residences - people like its more personal feel) as well as Blickling Hall, Holkham Hall, Houghton Hall and Felbrigg Hall

Hunstanton and Cromer are civilised seaside resorts with a good deal of individuality, and there are many attractive smaller places. Further down, the coast is dotted with beach resorts, some large and lively most obviously, Great Yarmouth which is one of Britain’s most popular seaside resorts, offering great family entertainment, miles of sandy beaches, proud maritime heritage and quality accommodation.

A particular attraction within Norfolk is the area known as the Norfolk Broads which are, surprisingly - man-made. It has been shown that they were actually mediaeval peat diggings dating mainly from 1100 to 1400, when peat was a vital source of fuel. Many villages grew up along the waterways of the Broadsand in particular Wroxham (the capital of the Broads)  and were not only flourishing little inland ports, each with its landing quay, but also bustling centres of industry based on local goods, such as the milling flour or the malting of barley. The arrival of the railways beginning in the 1840's however, heralded a period of change for Broads The riverside villages slowly lost their importance as centres of trade as the keel boats and the wherries lost their supremacy as a means of transport. Local industries remained, but by the end of the 19th century the rivers were no longer the vital arteries of trade that they had been for so long. Today they are a beautiful, well loved feature. The visitor can discover the history of the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads at wonderful Museum of the Broads in Stalham