Soaring Spires, Dad’s Army & Georgian Finery 2027

Overview

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!

Itinerary

PACKAGED ITINERARY

Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.

Day 2 Norwich
This morning we enjoy a 90-minute 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.

Map
Hotel

Mercure Norwich Hotel

Norwich, Norfolk

AAA

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.

BarGround Floor RoomsParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities

Dunston Hall Hotel

Swainsthorpe, Norfolk

AAA+

This impressive 4-star country house hotel exudes a sense of classic elegance amidst 150 acres of rolling, landscaped grounds. Each of the 169 bedrooms is stylish in design and the spacious public areas include a large modern restaurant and an attractive bar with views over the hotel’s 18-hole golf course. The hotel has an extensive range of leisure facilities including an indoor swimming pool, spa bath, sauna, steam room and spa treatment rooms (extra charges apply).

BarGround Floor RoomsLeisure FacilitiesLiftParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities

Wensum Valley Hotel

Norwich, Norfolk

AAA+

Wensum Valley Hotel Golf & Country Club is situated in the village of Taverham on the outskirts of Norwich. The 90 bedrooms are comfortably furnished and equipped with TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is no lift but plenty of ground-floor rooms are available. The Valley Restaurant is blessed with lovely views, while the lounge and bar are comfortable spots to relax. Other attractions include a snooker room with two snooker tables, a pool table and dartboard and a pleasant patio area overlooking the Wensum Valley. Guests enjoy complimentary use of the leisure facilities, which include an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, spa bath and gym.

BarGround Floor RoomsLeisure FacilitiesParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Pricing

Inclusions

  • 90-minute guided tour of Norwich
  • Entrance to Houghton Hall House & Gardens
  • Entrance to Bressingham Steam & Gardens

See quote for hotel inclusions

Mercure Norwich Hotel

4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £339pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £125