Norwich

Ancient market towns dot this corner of Norfolk like forgotten jewels, each with its own handsome village sign marking centuries of rural life. Aylsham takes centre stage here, a proper Georgian market town that still feels wonderfully unhurried compared to Norwich just down the road. The weekly market has traded in the same spot since 1372, and you can almost feel the weight of all that history as you wander the cobbled streets.

Saint Michael's church watches over the town from its commanding position, while the Old Pump and Aylsham County Bridewell tell stories of daily life from bygone eras. It's these little details that make Norfolk so rewarding - you'll spot them everywhere if you take time to look.

The surrounding countryside rolls away in gentle waves of farmland and woodland. Long Plantation offers lovely walking through ancient trees, perfect for clearing your head after exploring the towns. Each village seems to have its own elaborate village sign - Brampton, Buxton, Marsham all sport beautifully crafted examples that are proper works of art in their own right.

Getting here couldn't be easier. The train stops at Aylsham, Brampton and Buxton stations, making it simple to hop between villages without a car. Norwich is only twenty minutes away by road if you need proper shops or restaurants.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense for this area. You're close enough to nip into Norwich for the day, yet far enough out to enjoy the peace of rural Norfolk. The Broads are practically on your doorstep too - Norfolk Broads Haven gets consistently good reviews from families who want to explore the waterways without the crowds of the main tourist spots.