A Grand Day Out

If you're on a weekend break Norfolk, I'd recommend visiting one of the National Trust properties in the area. There are three to choose from - Oxburgh Hall in the west of the county, Blickling Hall near Norwich and Felbrigg Hall in Cromer, and for those staying in North Norfolk hotels Felbrigg makes the perfect day out.

This lovely place is attractive at all times of the year but in the autumn the woodland and lakeside walks really come into their own, with a mass of autumn crocus bringing a sea of colour to the orchard. There's a pretty walled garden, too, where fresh herbs such as sage, lavender and mint are grown in abundance, and an attractive church that's well worth a visit just a short walk from the hall. Next month this much-loved National Trust property will be holding a Sculpture Exhibition which will run throughout October displaying a variety of visual art. There's a harvest festival at the beginning of October, too, and then a Hallowe'en Trail at the end of the month - simply follow the trail around the grounds and solve the clues along the way.

If you're looking for something less active, though, you can simply stroll from the car park to the cafe or browse around the second hand book stall or gift shop which is packed with Christmas present ideas. Like the country's other National Trust properties, Felbrigg Hall has something for everyone and if you're staying in one of the Norfolk luxury hotels make sure it's on your "to do" list. Nearby Sheringham Park is also run by the National Trust and is also worth exploring - this vast park is better suited to the adult members of the family, though, as little ones may find the walk tiring and, as the path goes through wide stretches of open parkland, it can also get quite cold. So if you're looking for something to do this half-term, or fancy trying hotels in North Norfolk for a festive break, put the county on your Christmas list and make sure you visit Felbrigg when you're there.