5 reasons to visit Norfolk with your dog
We could list an endless amount of reasons why dog-friendly holidays in Norfolk are the best. This region is home to stunning coastlines and countryside, as well as a rich variety of wildlife, pubs and, of course, friendly locals. If you and the pooch are looking for a relaxing weekend away, relishing some of the best scenery that the UK has to offer – look no further than Norfolk.
1. There are ample dog-friendly beaches
Not only are the beaches in Norfolk some of the prettiest in the country, they are mostly all dog friendly too. With the exception of a few, you’ll struggle to find a beach that won’t be full of excited pooches running wild. Old Hunstanton Beach is perfect if you’re after somewhere untouched and quiet – there’s a cafe serving doggy treats to boot. Whilst Holkham Beach has a beautiful mix of forest, dunes and soft golden sand, and is often full with dog lovers, horse riders and hikers! Holme is one of our favourite spots especially for early morning strolls. All is quiet and calm in the dunes, there’s the National Coastal Path to join and lots of birds to spot!
2. Most of the pubs are dog-friendly
Pubs and dogs just go together, there’s no doubt about it. Whether it’s a post-hike pint or a delicious Sunday Lunch, Norfolk has plenty of dog-friendly pubs on offer – over 1,000 in fact. The Brisley Bell is perfectly placed between city and sea, making a great stop off if you’re heading to the west coast. Whilst The Lifeboat Inn and The Ship Inn are ideal for their fresh fish dishes, and bracing coastal walks all around. Whatever the occasion, you can rest assured most pubs in the region will welcome you and the pooch with welcoming arms.
3. The food is second to none
A county with over 90 miles of coastline is sure to have an incredible seafood scene, and much of the food in Norfolk is unbeatable. There is a rich agricultural history in the area, and the majority of hotels and restaurants like to celebrate this food offering. Keep an eye out for the likes of samphire, seabass, mussels, cod and the famous Cromer crab. From the farmland, expect to find a wide variety of locally grown vegetables and fruits, as well as award-winning cheeses and butchers. For a quick lunch, we would highly recommend stopping by The Crab Hut in Brancaster for their delicious daily catches.
4. There’s no shortage of walking routes
There are over 10 different walk routes in the region spanning over 1,200 miles. Some of our favourite places to walk dogs in Norfolk have to be along the National Coastal Path and Peddars Way for time next to the water and a lesson in history. The coastal path starts from Hunstanton and follows all the way down to Cromer – passing miles of protected dunes, golden sands, seals, birds and rugged countryside. Try the walk from Wells-next-the-Sea over to Holkham or from Holkham to Burnham-Overy-Staithe to experience a stunning mix of landscapes and coastal towns whilst engulfing a healthy dose of sea air. The Peddars Way runs inland from Hunstanton and down to Thetford, passing the historic Pongo Ponds and Iron age forts. Dogs will love passing through the Becks, a beautiful area of protected forestry and river valleys.
5. Enjoy unforgettable experiences
Whether you’re an avid wildlife watcher or not, Norfolk is sure to charm you with it’s incredible experiences. From Blakeney Point, you’re able to spot the biggest colony of seals in the UK from the comfort of a chartered boat. Whilst at Cley Marshes and Hickling Broad, there is wonderful bird-spotting to be enjoyed. The Broads is arguably one of the most iconic characteristics of the region with over 125 miles of navigable lock-free waterways. We’d recommend hiring a boat for the day and exploring the National Park from the water, stopping off at the different villages and idyllic windmills. Experiences such as these are, without a doubt, what make Norfolk holidays with dogs so memorable.
Written by
Ella Perryman
Ella has a great eye for telling a story in a full article or a single picture. Marshall only has eyes for anyone who’ll give him a scratch or a biscuit. He’s also partial to a wander in the woods and days spent digging in the sand. Together, they’re a coastal adventure dream team who love heading back to Ella’s Devon roots or exploring the rugged fringes of Wales.
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