Soaring Spires, Dad’s Army & Georgian Finery 2026
Houghton Hall Credit David Valinsky Photography
Dads Army Street Scene © Bressingham Steam
Elm Hill, Norwich
Houghton Hall
Norwich Cathedral
Spend time in scenic Norfolk visiting the county’s famous attractions from the ancient city of Norwich with its soaring cathedral spire, the second highest in England to fictional Dad’s Army TV location of Walmington-on-Sea. For breathtaking grandeur, we visit the opulent home of Sir Robert Walpole, Houghton Hall and enjoy the beautiful gardens of Bressingham. What a perfect combination!
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Norwich
This morning we enjoy a half-day guided tour of Norwich visiting some of the eclectic mixture of old and new attractions within this delightful city. Don’t miss Elm Hill, surrounded by lovely old Tudor buildings which now house appealing independent shops and cafes. There is also the spectacular cathedral and castle as well as a host of shopping opportunities in the conveniently pedestrianised centre.
Day 3 Houghton Hall
Full day visit to Houghton Hall, the house and gardens of the first British Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole (Earl of Orford) who commissioned the magnificent and elaborate house of today. Boasting opulent and rich décor, the State rooms are a testament to the refined Georgian era with painted ceilings and gilded furniture, designed to impress guests and showcase Walpole’s prized art collection. Highlights include the Great Staircase, Stone Hall, The Saloon, the Embroidered Bed Chamber and the Tapestry Dressing Room. We can explore the restored 5 acre walled garden which combines imaginative planting, charming sculptures and stunning blooms as well as the medieval St Martin’s Church before visiting the Stables Café or browsing in the gift shop.
Day 4 ‘Walmington-on-Sea’ and Bressingham Steam & Gardens
Today, we travel to Thetford and fictional location of iconic TV series, Dad’s Army’s ‘Walmington-on-Sea’. We have brief free time to view some of the familiar places where filming took place. Afterwards, we travel a short distance to the magnificent Bressingham Steam & Gardens where we will spend the rest of the day. We have free time to visit the neighbouring garden centre for lunch before our stroll around the beautiful gardens. Totalling over 17 acres, the fabulous gardens, woodlands and countryside display stunning plant combinations to admire across six distinct gardens.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Norwich
This morning we enjoy a half-day guided tour of Norwich visiting some of the eclectic mixture of old and new attractions within this delightful city. Don’t miss Elm Hill, surrounded by lovely old Tudor buildings which now house appealing independent shops and cafes. There is also the spectacular cathedral and castle as well as a host of shopping opportunities in the conveniently pedestrianised centre.
Day 3 Houghton Hall
Full day visit to Houghton Hall, the house and gardens of the first British Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole (Earl of Orford) who commissioned the magnificent and elaborate house of today. Boasting opulent and rich décor, the State rooms are a testament to the refined Georgian era with painted ceilings and gilded furniture, designed to impress guests and showcase Walpole’s prized art collection. Highlights include the Great Staircase, Stone Hall, The Saloon, the Embroidered Bed Chamber and the Tapestry Dressing Room. We can explore the restored 5 acre walled garden which combines imaginative planting, charming sculptures and stunning blooms as well as the medieval St Martin’s Church before visiting the Stables Café or browsing in the gift shop.
Day 4 ‘Walmington-on-Sea’ and Bressingham Steam & Gardens
Today, we travel to Thetford and fictional location of iconic TV series, Dad’s Army’s ‘Walmington-on-Sea’. We have brief free time to view some of the familiar places where filming took place. Afterwards, we travel a short distance to the magnificent Bressingham Steam & Gardens where we will spend the rest of the day. We have free time to visit the neighbouring garden centre for lunch before our stroll around the beautiful gardens. Totalling over 17 acres, the fabulous gardens, woodlands and countryside display stunning plant combinations to admire across six distinct gardens.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Mercure Norwich Hotel
Norwich, Norfolk
In a convenient location just 3 miles from Norwich city centre, the 4-star Mercure Norwich offers 107 comfortable and well-appointed guest rooms each equipped with a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Outside, there is a walled garden, while, inside, guests can enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the Bar and Brasserie. Decorated with stylish purple and grey tones, the restaurant’s menu included dishes created with locally sourced fresh produce, while the lounge bar offers plenty of comfortable seating and a selection of drinks.
Mercure Norwich Hotel
Norwich, Norfolk
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £335pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement £116
Inclusions
• Norwich half day guided tour
• Entrance to Houghton Hall House & Gardens
• Entrance to Bressingham Steam & Gardens
Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.
Call to tailor this tour 01732 879191
Click to get a quote
Request a call back
