What to do in Norfolk in the rain

You have come to Norfolk to visit the famous beaches and stroll in the lovely countryside. But you can’t. Because this is England and it is raining. Never mind! This county also offers some great indoor activities and attractions that will keep you entertained and, more importantly, dry. Here are some ideas for what to do in Norfolk when it’s raining.

The North Norfolk Railway

The North Norfolk Railway offers an effortless opportunity to see one of the best parts of Norfolk’s coastal countryside with the convenience of staying warm and dry. Hop on board one of the steam or diesel trains at Sheringham station for a 10.5 mile round trip through some of Norfolk’s prettiest countryside. There are four historic stations to stop off at on the way, should you choose to do so. At Holt visitors can see a miniature railway, operated by the North Norfolk Model Engineering Club, and browse the streets of this quaint market town.

We recommend purchasing a rover ticket at £11 for adults and £7.50 for children which gives you unlimited travel throughout the day, so you can hop on and off whenever and wherever you like. There is no better way to see this designated area of outstanding natural beauty than by taking an old-fashioned train ride.

Norwich Cathedral

Norwich Cathedral is one of Norfolk’s most popular attractions to visit and is ideal for a rainy day. A magnificent example of Norman architecture, this building is over 900 years old and has the second tallest spire in the county – which you can climb if you are up for it! The cathedral has remained in one piece despite experiencing fire, riot and war - you can still see a musket ball from a Civil War gun that embedded itself in one of the Cathedral’s tombs.

The best way to see this spectacular building is via a guided tour which you can join for free on the hour every day except Sunday. Keep an eye out for the Treasury, where you’ll see unique artefacts including silverware and communion cups, and don’t miss the Japanese Garden and Labyrinth.

Davenport’s Magic Kingdom

Davenport’s Magic Kingdom is a fairly new attraction that has already gathered a great reputation. Adults and kids alike will be left spellbound by magic shows, tricks and stories. There are some great exhibitions and artefacts on show here, such as the ‘From Witches to Wonder’ exhibition which includes the famous magician Houdini’s Chinese Water Torture Tank. There are amazing costumes and stage props, ventriloquist’s dolls and posters and prints that were once owned by some of the best magician’s in the world. The attraction also has its own theatre where visitors can watch live magic shows that will delight people of all ages.

There’s a great café on site where you can stop for refreshments and an excellent shop selling all manner of magic tricks, playing cards, jokes and other novelties. Tickets can be booked online for around £10 for adults and £6 for children and you’ll need to choose a specific time slot to visit.

Historic Smokehouse

The Great Yarmouth Potteries and Smokehouse is a real hidden gem that reveals the town’s fascinating cultural heritage. Visitors will be amazed at the number of maritime artefacts on show, including many hand-crafted items made by Ernie, the friendly potter and artist who is always on hand to share interesting facts about the museum. Visitors can see the herring smoking room and the pottery studio and kiln facilities; you can even have a go at making your own little clay pot - a great way to get keep the kids amused.

There is a nice gift shop selling unique items and you can even enjoy a delightful cream tea afterwards. Adult tickets cost £4.50 and just £2.50 for children. Look closely at the building that houses the museum and you’ll notice it is constructed of old ship parts! This unusual attraction is well worth a visit and is a perfect choice for when the heavens open.

Blickling Hall

Blickling Hall is a magnificent stately home set in 5000 acres of gardens, parkland and farmland. Once home to the Boleyn family and occupied by the RAF during the war, this impressive Jacobean house has a fascinating history. The library houses one of the county’s most significant book collections and there is a brilliant and huge second hand bookshop here run by the National Trust.

Given its age and history, the house is, of course, haunted. In fact, the house has been named by the National Trust as the most haunted in Britain. Anny Boleyn appears every year on the anniversary of her execution, sitting with her head in her lap in a carriage drawn by a headless rider. Don’t worry if you can’t visit on that day (May 19), because there are other lost souls wandering these hallways including a grey lady and the phantoms of Sir Thomas Boleyn and Sir John Falstaff. Happy Hunting!

Norfolk is a superb county to visit with its stunning coastline, wildlife and outdoors activities. But when the weather isn’t on your side, Norfolk has no shortage of things to keep you amused and out of the rain.