Norwich & the Norfolk Broads

Our holiday begins in the historic city of Norwich, where we meet the Tour Manager and travel group at our boutique hotel in the mid-afternoon before setting out on a guided two-hour city tour.

The capital of Norfolk brims with unique culture and a warm, inviting atmosphere which we discover with our guide. Strolling through Old Town, we learn some of the city's fascinating history and see the Anglo-Norman cathedral that dominates its skyline. The streets and open squares reveal museums, medieval churches and public gardens, among other attractions.

If you prefer, you could instead check in later this afternoon and explore the city at your own pace. The centre of Norwich is just 10 minutes' walk from our hotel. Wandering the cobbled streets, you'll uncover a vibrant arts scene, bustling markets, and a rich literary heritage.

This evening, we gather for our first dinner together at our hotel.

• Dinner

Our day starts with a visit to Cley Marshes, one of the oldest nature reserves in the country. We encounter the beauty of these popular coastal wetlands and hear an expert talk about the species of birds living in the area. Afterwards, you are free to wander along the trails and find a hide to spot the birds on your own.

Our next stop is Sheringham, a traditional seaside town on the Deep History Coast, where there's time to wander along the colourful promenade, discover the beaches, or enjoy lunch with a coastal view. We then meet at the train station to join the heritage North Norfolk Railway on a picturesque, steam-hauled journey to Holt.

This famous route is known as 'The Poppy Line' because of the vibrant red flowers that spring up along the route during the summer. From our vintage carriage, we admire sweeping views of the coastline, heathland, rolling hills and rivers. After experiencing this slice of railway history, we are taken back to our hotel with time to relax before dinner.

*Steam-hauled where possible, however due to timetable changes or weather conditions, heritage diesel locomotives may be running instead.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today, our coach takes us to Sandringham, once a favourite Royal residence of the late Queen Elizabeth II and now a cherished retreat to King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The magnificent estate gives us a fascinating insight into the heritage and lifestyle of the Royal Family, and inside the house, the décor and furniture have remained the same since Edwardian times. The Gardens have a unique variety of ancient trees, two lakes, a rock garden and a summer house known as 'Alexandra's Nest'.

On arrival, there's plenty of time to explore Sandringham's opulent interiors and royal collections. You can also wander the acres of beautifully landscaped gardens before we return to our hotel in the late afternoon.

Enjoy time to relax at our hotel before dinner in the dining room.

• Breakfast, Dinner

We make the most of our final full day and discover Norfolk by heritage railway. After heading to Dereham by coach, we join the Mid-Norfolk Railway on its full journey through the picturesque countryside to Wymondham.

From Wymondham, we continue by coach to Aylsham, an unspoilt market town where we board the Bure Valley Railway. Following the meandering River Bure through the Bure Valley, we pass the serene meadows, historic pastures and idyllic villages of the Broadland region enroute to Wroxham.

On arrival in this peaceful village, we have free time to look around before we drive the short distance to Horning for a unique experience - cruising into beautiful Norfolk scenery aboard a Mississippi paddle boat. Drifting along the Norfolk Broads, we admire the celebrated landscapes and wildlife. With light refreshments available on the boat, this is a way to spend our afternoon.

We are driven back to our hotel with time to refresh before the final dinner of our memorable holiday.

*Steam-hauled where possible however due to timetable changes or weather conditions, heritage diesel locomotives may be running instead.

• Breakfast, Dinner

While based in the historic city of Norwich, we have discovered some of the most beautiful attractions and features of the Norfolk region. From the magnificent gardens of Sandringham to the Blickling Estate, the wild coastline and the serene river network of the Norfolk Broads, each destination has provided a new perspective. All these experiences were paired with rides aboard Norfolk's heritage railways to create a truly memorable holiday.

After a final full English breakfast this morning, check out of our hotel and begin your journey homewards or continue exploring more of Norwich and Norfolk at your own pace.

• Breakfast