From sandy beaches and coastal wetlands to emerald-green countryside and ancient forests, East of England boasts some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Hop between charming seaside resorts on the coast and venture inland to discover chocolate-box villages and market towns.
Things to do in East of England
The Broads National Park is criss-crossed with one of the largest networks of navigable rivers, lakes and canals in England. The park is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and can be explored by boat, bicycle or on foot. Barn owls, otters, kingfishers and swallowtail butterflies are just some of the animals you can see in The Broads.
East of England is dotted with charming medieval towns like Lavenham. Explore the winding streets and admire the crooked half-timbered buildings painted in bright pinks, yellows and oranges. Harry Potter fans will recognise it as the filming location for Godric’s Hollow. Shop for local produce at the farmer’s market and enjoy scones, jam and cream at a cosy tea room.
The laid-back city of Norwich is built around a beautiful Anglican cathedral topped with impressive spires. Dine at excellent farm-to-table cafes and climb up to 12th-century Norwich Castle for sweeping views over the coast. The city is a great base for visiting Blakeney Point, where you can get up close with one of the largest seal colonies in England.
Surrounded by rolling countryside, Bury St Edmunds is one of the most picturesque towns in Suffolk. Wander around the ruins of the Abbey of St Edmund, dine at award-winning restaurants and shop on the charming high street. The historic market town of Halesworth is a great base for exploring the countryside and the Suffolk Coast.
Getting around East of England
East of England is easy to get around using trains and local buses. All major towns and villages in the region are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Driving to the East of England from London takes around two hours. Trains are usually a faster option and take around 1.5 hours. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore East of England at your own pace.