Blickling Estate is a stunning National Trust property located in the heart of Norfolk, and it's the perfect destination for a day trip. With its breathtaking gardens, historic house, and fascinating history, Blickling Estate is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the beauty and heritage of Norfolk.
The estate is home to a stunning Jacobean mansion that dates back to the 17th century. Take a tour of the house and discover it's fascinating history, from its use as a secret RAF base during the Second World War to its connections to Anne Boleyn, one of Henry VIII's wives.
But the mansion is just the beginning of what the estate has to offer. Take a stroll through the magnificent gardens and enjoy the beauty of the herbaceous borders, the walled garden, and the parterre. Relax by the lake or take a walk through the ancient woodland, and don't forget to visit the orangery, which is home to a collection of exotic plants.
For those interested in history, there's plenty to discover at Blickling Estate. The estate played a key role in the English Civil War, and you can learn all about this fascinating period of history at the estate's visitor centre. And with a wide range of events and exhibitions taking place throughout the year, there's always something new to discover at Blickling Estate.
The Blickling Estate itself is set across 4,777 acres, including 500 acres of woodland and 450 acres of parkland so they're so much to do outside of the house's main grounds too. Although the driveway and formal gardens aren't dog friendly (apart from assistance dogs of course), the parklands, woodlands and lakeside are. We love exploring all the different walks with our dog, Luna, who loves the freedom of being able to be off lead and explore. The Blickling Estate is also home to the most gorgeous 17th century pub, The Bucks Arms, (which is also dog friendly and has a huge garden). Long dog walks in an incredibly beautiful setting, rounded off with a delicious meal in a cozy pub is exactly what Norfolk is all about and Blickling Estate does it so well! I have to admit, it's one of our favourite ways to spend a Saturday.
If pubs aren't your thing, or you're keen to stay more within the walls of the main garden, there are a range of cafés and shops on site, so there's plenty of opportunities to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping. Whether you're looking for souvenirs or locally sourced produce, you're sure to find something to take home with you.
Blickling Estate really is the ultimate day trip destination for anyone looking to discover the beauty and heritage of Norfolk. With its stunning house, magnificent gardens, and fascinating history, it's the perfect place to spend a day exploring and soaking up the atmosphere. So why not plan your visit today and discover the magic of Blickling Estate for yourself?