With the holiday crowds gone and the rich colours of the Norfolk countryside, the latter months of the year can be a great time to spring a visit. Shop around for low season breaks and there are some cracking deals available, while most of the usual attractions and activities are still available and easier than ever to book outside the traditional summer holidays. Here are six sites to enjoy, with ideal activities for various tastes…

1. Houghton Hall, King’s Lynn

Art and autumn colours at one of Norfolk’s finest heritage attractions (Image: Houghton Hall Facebook)

Timelessly classic, but also lovably interesting and eccentric, Houghton Hall is one of the region’s finest stately home style attractions. As well as a historic country house and gardens, it is the creativity on show that is the big draw. The centrepiece of this is the Houghton Sculpture Garden, a classic outdoor art collection with work by world-famous artists which is at its stimulating best with a backdrop of autumn colours! For those not enamoured with theme parks and the usual attractions, this has to be among the best days out in Norfolk for adults. See: http://www.houghtonhall.com/

Perfect for: Art lovers, short walks, events

2. Wroxham Broad

With rich wildlife and natural beauty that changes with every season, the Norfolk Broads are always worth a visit. Autumn is a truly special time too, as the colours get richer and the native animals get busy before the chill of winter.

There are countless classic places on the Broads, but Wroxham  is a handy starting point to access the waters. There are cruises from Wroxham most days of the year until the end of October. Or, should you fancy going under your own steam, you could always hire a boat, or bring a kayak. Alongside wildlife watching, canoeing and other activities, the area also offers some superb pike fishing, with the traditional season starting in the autumn.

Perfect for: Cruises, wildlife watching, coarse fishing

3. Holkham Hall & Estate

Stately and wild pleasures alike at Holkham (image Holkham Facebook Official)

Another stately gem, Holkham is another site to rank among Norfolk’s finest heritage attractions. Whether you have a potter around the pretty grounds and beach, try hands-on activities or attend one of their lively events, there is always something interesting going on. Autumn is no exception, with some fantastic one day courses and workshops to brush up your art and craft skills. You can also hire bikes or boats for some fresh air; or for a more relaxed day out, try a themed tour or Discovery Walk. You’re also very close to Holkham Nature Reserve of course, a rich site in its own right! Full opening times, directions and more at www.holkham.co.uk

Perfect for: Short courses, events, cream teas

4. Norwich City & Cathedral

Our regional capital is one of England’s friendliest, most cultured cities (Image: Norwich Cathedral FB)

With such a rich blend of modern and historic charm, Norwich is quite simply one of England’s best cities to visit bar none! The medieval cathedral is a real treasure and an obvious starting point for the grown-ups (perhaps followed by some of the city’s amazing eateries and craft beer bars). There are activities and shops to appeal to all ages though, including the excellent Norwich Castle Museum, technicolour town market and a wealth of meandering lanes and independent shops, cafés and entertainment venues. See www.visitnorwich.co.uk

Perfect for: Independent shopping, pubs and eateries, rainy days!

5. The Thursford Collection and Pensthorpe Park, at Fakenham

Thursford is a nostalgia ride all ages will enjoy (image: www.thursford.com)

As the nights draw in for autumn and winter, what could be more magical than some old-fashioned delights from the age of the classic fairground? This is the promise at The Thursfood Collection, where you can step back to a heaady bygone age of carousels, steam powered wonders and Wurlitzer music, along with live performances and seasonal special events.

The town of Fakenham has some other great family attractions to plan a day out too, it must be said. Pensthorpe Natural Park is full of great play areas and activities, including an excellent adventure playground, not to mention plenty of gorgeous gardens and wildlife spots to explore.

Perfect for: Family days out, walks and wildlife

 Amazing value self-catering breaks in Norfolk at Searles!

For anyone looking to enjoy a late season break, Searles is the perfect base to enjoy Norfolk! Situated right on the beach at Huntstanton, we are open right through the year, with great value self-catering accommodation to suit everyone from families to couples. See our accommodation section for current rates on lodges, cottages and more, as well as our special offers section for seasonal break deals. This autumn alone, we have a Bonfire & Fireworks spectacular (3-5th Nov), not to mention our 4-night Super Saver breaks.

See our offers and breaks section for more.