Discover East Anglia | A Visitor's Introduction to East Anglia

Get expert advice and recommendations for places to stay, places to visit and things to do in East Anglia

East Anglia is a charming and historically rich region in the east of England, known for its big skies, medieval towns, stunning coastline, and picturesque countryside. This area offers a perfect blend of heritage, natural beauty, and seaside charm. Whether you’re exploring the historic university city of Cambridge, discovering the wild beauty of the Norfolk Broads, or enjoying fresh seafood on the Suffolk coast, East Anglia provides a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

East Anglia Accommodation:  Hotels  4&5 Star Hotels  Budget Hotels  Country Hotels  Family Hotels  Bed & Breakfasts  Pub Accommodation

Explore East Anglia by County:  Bedfordshire  Cambridgeshire  Essex  Hertfordshire  Norfolk  Suffolk


Why is East Anglia Worth a Visit?

East Anglia is steeped in history and natural beauty, making it a fantastic destination for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and coastal explorers. Home to some of the UK’s best-preserved medieval architecture, the region boasts charming market towns, stunning cathedrals, and grand country estates.

The Norfolk and Suffolk coastlines are dotted with unspoiled beaches, quaint fishing villages, and traditional seaside resorts, while the Norfolk Broads provide a unique landscape of waterways perfect for boating and wildlife watching. Add to this the world-famous university city of Cambridge, with its stunning colleges and punting on the River Cam, and you have a region packed with things to see and do.

East Anglia Highlights: Things to See and Do in East Anglia

1. Cambridge: The Iconic University City

Cambridge is one of the most beautiful cities in England, famous for its prestigious university, stunning architecture, and charming riverside setting. Take a punting tour along the River Cam, passing famous colleges such as King’s College, Trinity College, and St John’s College.

Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum to see impressive art and antiquities, or climb the Great St Mary’s Church tower for panoramic views of the city. The Botanic Garden, owned by the university, offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful plant collections.

2. The Norfolk Broads: A Boater’s Paradise

The Norfolk Broads National Park is a unique landscape of rivers, lakes, and wetlands, perfect for boating, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. Hire a self-drive boat or take a guided river cruise to explore its serene waterways.

Wildlife enthusiasts can look out for herons, kingfishers, and even otters in this protected wetland area. The Broads also offer quaint riverside pubs, perfect for a relaxed drink by the water.

3. Norwich: A Historic and Vibrant City

Norwich is one of England’s most historic cities, boasting two cathedrals, a medieval castle, and a wealth of independent shops. The Norwich Cathedral, with its stunning cloisters and soaring spire, is a must-visit. Norwich Castle, originally built by the Normans, is now a museum showcasing the city’s rich history.

Stroll through the Norwich Lanes, a collection of charming medieval streets filled with independent boutiques, cafés, and bookshops. Don’t miss Elm Hill, one of the most picturesque streets in England, lined with timber-framed houses and cobbled pathways.

4. The Suffolk Coast: Aldeburgh and Southwold

The Suffolk coast is home to some of England’s most charming seaside towns. Aldeburgh is famous for its shingle beach, fresh seafood, and arts scene. Walk along the promenade to see Maggi Hambling’s scallop sculpture, or enjoy fish and chips from the famous Aldeburgh Fish & Chip Shop.

Further up the coast, Southwold is a quintessential English seaside town with a sandy beach, colourful beach huts, and a pier with quirky amusements. The town is also home to the Adnams Brewery, where you can take a tour and sample local ales.

5. Sandringham Estate: The Royal Family’s Retreat

The Sandringham Estate in Norfolk is the private country retreat of the British royal family. Open to the public during certain times of the year, visitors can explore the stunning house, landscaped gardens, and the Sandringham Museum, which showcases royal memorabilia.

The surrounding parkland is perfect for a peaceful walk, with marked trails leading through ancient woodlands and beautifully maintained gardens.

6. Dedham Vale: Constable Country

This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) on the Essex-Suffolk border is often called "Constable Country" because it inspired the famous paintings of John Constable. The landscape of rolling meadows, gentle rivers, and thatched cottages looks like something straight out of an English painting.

Take a stroll along the River Stour, visit the village of Dedham, or explore Flatford Mill, the setting of Constable’s famous painting The Hay Wain.

7. Holkham Beach: One of England’s Best Beaches

Located on the North Norfolk coast, Holkham Beach is a vast golden-sand beach backed by dunes and pine forests. The beach is part of Holkham National Nature Reserve, home to a variety of birdlife and wildlife.

It’s an excellent spot for walking, horse riding, or simply enjoying the vast open space. Nearby, Holkham Hall, a grand Palladian-style mansion, offers beautifully landscaped grounds and a stunning lake.

8. Ely: A Riverside Gem with a Stunning Cathedral

The small city of Ely in Cambridgeshire is home to Ely Cathedral, one of the most impressive in England. Known as the "Ship of the Fens", its magnificent octagonal tower and medieval architecture dominate the skyline.

Take a walk along the Ely riverside, visit Oliver Cromwell’s House, or explore the Ely Market, which offers local crafts and produce.

9. Framlingham Castle: A Historic Fortress

This 13th-century castle in Suffolk is famous for being the place where Mary Tudor was declared Queen of England. Visitors can walk along the high castle walls, explore the exhibitions inside, and enjoy stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

10. Wells-next-the-Sea: A Traditional Norfolk Seaside Town

This charming seaside town in North Norfolk is known for its vast sandy beach, colourful beach huts, and working harbour. Wells-next-the-Sea is perfect for a family day out, with its scenic coastal walks, fresh seafood stalls, and crabbing spots along the quay.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

East Anglia is well connected by train and road. The main cities, including Cambridge, Norwich, and Ipswich, can be reached from London in under two hours by train. Driving is a great option for exploring the countryside and coastal areas, with good road links via the A11, A12, and A14.

Parking

In major towns and cities, there are public car parks, but in smaller villages and coastal towns, parking can be limited, especially in summer. Park & Ride services are available in Cambridge and Norwich.

Dining

East Anglia is famous for its fresh local produce, including:

  • Norfolk seafood (crabs, mussels, and oysters)
  • Suffolk pork and cheese
  • Adnams beer (brewed in Southwold)
  • Cambridge-style afternoon tea

 

Excellent pubs, seafood restaurants, and local markets can be found throughout the region.

When to Visit

Spring and summer are the best times to visit, with warmer weather and lively coastal towns. Autumn is great for quieter countryside walks, while winter offers peaceful city breaks and festive markets.

Exploring Beyond

If you have extra time, visit Thetford Forest for outdoor adventures, or head to the Essex coast for charming towns like Maldon and Mersea Island.

With its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and coastal charm, East Anglia is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone!