From weekend breaks in the heart of the city, to peaceful country retreats, Norwich and Norfolk is the perfect place to escape the everyday for a romantic getaway this Autumn. Enjoy art exhibitions, tranquil gardens, riverside walks, and a spot of fine-dining. Explore the bustling city of Norwich together, or venture to the coast for walks along the beach front. City tours, outdoor adventures, afternoon teas, zoo’s, and even axe-throwing – there’s something for everyone in Norwich and Norfolk! Here’s our guide to some of the best ways to enjoy breaks for couples this Autumn.
Maids Head Hotel
This 4*-star, award-winning hotel is believed to be the oldest hotel in the UK, with a history dating back over 800 years. And with eight centuries of welcoming guests to the city, it’s no surprise that the Maids Head Hotel is truly a master of its craft! Guests can enjoy a stay in one of their 84 stylish en-suite bedrooms; everything from cosy single rooms to luxurious suites with their own roll-top bath. As well as stunning rooms, the Maids Head is home to WinePress, a 2AA Rosettes restaurant boasting a fine-dining experience in the heart of Norwich. Enjoy a stunning seasonal menu from Head Chef, Magic, finalist in the National Chef of the Year 2020 competition. The Norwich Hideaway package is perfect for couples looking to treat themselves to a romantic break. A 2-night stay in a classic double room, complete with bottle of Prosecco on arrival, a grazing board, breakfast in bed on both mornings, and dinner at the WinePress for £350.
Photo: Maids Head Hotel
Gothic House
Gothic House is a beautiful, Grade II-listed bed & breakfast in the heart of Norwich city centre. Located in a quiet courtyard close to the stunning Norwich Cathedral, this intimate and stunning guest house is perfect for those looking to escape the rush of city life without leaving the city! Each room is beautifully decorated and comes with its own private bathroom, complete with cosy bathrobes and slippers. Guests can also enjoy a delicious breakfast, made with locally-sourced produce – the perfect way to kickstart a day of exploring Norwich. Enjoy a stay in a double room for just £105 per night (breakfast included).
Photo: Gothic House B&B
Poolside Lodges
The perfect break for those looking to escape the rush of city life. Just a 20-minute drive from Norwich city centre, and 10 minutes from the Norfolk Broads, Poolside Lodges is a family-run business that boasts 3 amazing private lodges. Relax and unwind with a peaceful countryside break in one of these beautifully-decorated, spacious lodges. And while it might now be a little too cold for a dip in the pool, you can still enjoy your very own private hot tub in the evenings! Couples can enjoy the Studio Lodge for £65-120 per night (seasonal changes).
Photo: Poolside Lodges
Park Farm Hotel & Leisure
Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at Park Farm Hotel & Leisure, a blissful retreat set in 200-acres of Norfolk countryside. Enjoy everything from stylish double rooms (£70-£90 per night) to extravagant suites with spa baths and a mini cinema snug lounge (£120-£145 per night). Park Farm also boast a fantastic range of spa treatments and experiences, perfect for couples looking to unwind. Everything from massage treatments to facials and manicures. Or why not take a dip in the pool and jacuzzi?
Park Farm Hotel & Leisure
Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts
A stunning museum of renowned world-art, the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts boasts one of the most incredible contemporary collections in the UK. Discover works by Pablo Picasso, Francis Bacon and Edgar Degas, as well as a wide range of exciting events and one-off exhibitions. Once you’ve finished exploring the Sainsbury Centre, head out for a long stroll around the lake and sculpture park, and admire the Brutalist architecture of the famous Ziggurats.
Anish Kapoor at Houghton Hall
Built in the 1700’s, this Palladian Hall is steeped in history, boasting an award-winning 5-acre garden and stunning art collections throughout the hall and its grounds. Until 1 November, visitors can enjoy the largest UK exhibition of outdoor sculptures from celebrated British sculptor, Anish Kapoor. Find out more here.
Photo: Houghton Hall
Holkham Hall
Holkham Hall is owned by the Earls of Leicester, who have opened up the hall and grounds for visitors to enjoy its world-class art, tapestries, sculptures, and beautifully preserved grounds. Enjoy boating lakes, high-ropes, nature trails, Deer parks, and walled gardens. Once you’ve finished exploring the grounds, why not take a trip down to Holkham Beach and explore miles of sandy beaches and marshland.
Assembly House afternoon tea
The perfect treat for couples. Enjoy an indulgent afternoon of sandwiches, scones, perfect pastries and delicious cakes at The Assembly House, a grandiose Georgian hotel and restaurant. Classic Afternoon Tea starts from £45 for two people.
Photo: Holkham Beach
Boom Battle Bar
Located in Castle Quarter, the Boom Battle Bar is a truly unique experience and the first of its kind in Norwich. This adventure bar boasts a great range of activities including axe-throwing, crazy golf, electric darts, shuffleboard, beer pong, and Skee-ball. And if that wasn’t enough, they also have a great range of cocktails and their very own beer!
Bowling House
A cocktail bar, karaoke venue, bowling alley, and restaurant all rolled into one – what’s not to like? Bowling House is a relatively new addition to Norwich’s nightlife scene, but is already a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. Enjoy an hour of bowling for just £25 per lane.
Photo: Bowling House
City Escape Games
Explore the city of Norwich like never before, with City Escape Games. A new and unique experience, City Escape Games offer a great range of outdoor escape games and experiences. Discover key Norwich landmarks through interactive and immersive stories. Prices start from £24.99 per game.
Amazona Zoo
This one is a must for animal lovers. Home to over 200 tropical South American animals, Amazona Zoo is one of Norfolk’s most loved venues and a truly unique day out. There’s plenty to see and learn!
Photo: Amazona Zoo
English Whisky Tours
The English Whisky Co. is England’s oldest distillery, and has been producing some of the country’s best whisky for years. Guests can once again enjoy tours of the stunning St George’s Distillery, the first distillery in England to produce whisky in over 100 years. Explore the distilling floor and barrel warehouse before enjoying a guided tasting of 1 award winning English Whisky and 1 liqueur. Tours start from £15 per person.
Pensthorpe Natural Park
700 acres of woodland walks, nature trails, lakes and a variety of habitats teaming with wildlife. This year the Millennium Garden at Pensthorpe, designed by renowned landscape gardener Piet Oudolf, celebrates its twentieth anniversary. £12.95 per person when booked online.
Photo: English Whisky Tours
