Things to do in King’s Lynn – Castle Acre Priory
Castle Acre Priory is an important Norfolk visitor attraction that dates back to 1090. It is one of the largest and best preserved monastic sites in England. The priory was the home of the first Cluniac order of monks in England, and their love for decorative details can be seen throughout the extensive ruins. Visitors can explore the priory and see the beautiful west end church gable, prior’s lodging, and remains of many other buildings. The recreated herb garden showcases the herbs that monks would have used for medicinal, culinary, and decorative purposes. Additionally, there is an exhibition, display of artifacts, and audio tour that provide more information about the priory.
Watatunga Wildlife Reserve
Watatunga is a stunning new wildlife reserve located in west Norfolk. Spanning 170 acres of woodland, grassland, and lakes, the reserve offers a unique environment for over twenty types of ungulate and rare bird species to roam freely. Access to the reserve is only permitted through guided tours, which must be pre-booked online through their website. In addition to the wildlife, Watatunga also offers luxurious self-catering accommodation.
Read our other news article about Wataunga Wildlife Reserve:Explore Endangered Species at Watatunga Wildlife Reserve in West Norfolk.
Oxburgh Estate
Situated on the edge of the Norfolk Brecks, Oxburgh Hall is a moated estate that has been the home of the Bedingfeld family for over 500 years. The hall features Victorian Gothic interiors adorned with portraits and treasured objects collected by the family. Outside, visitors can explore the formal gardens, a productive walled garden, a display glasshouse, and a French parterre. The estate also boasts 200 acres of wildlife-rich land with woodland, parkland, and a chalk stream habitat.
Castle Rising
Castle Rising is one of England’s largest, best preserved, and lavishly decorated keeps. The castle was built in 1138 by the Norman lord William d’Albini for his new wife, the widow of Henry I. In the 14th century, it became the luxurious residence of Queen Isabella, widow and alleged murderess of Edward II. The castle is owned and managed by Lord Howard of Rising. Visitors can climb up the steps by the gatehouse to see the scale of the earthworks, appreciate the elaborate decoration on the outside of the keep, explore the Great Hall and its splendidly decorated waiting room, and view the remains of Queen Isabella’s apartments and an early Norman Church within the inner bailey.
Gooderstone Water Gardens & Nature Trails
Gooderstone Water Gardens is a beautiful six-acre garden located in the village of Gooderstone in Norfolk. The garden features thirteen numbered bridges that lead visitors across waterways, ponds, and a natural trout stream. It offers a tranquil setting for garden lovers, naturalists, artists, and photographers. The garden also includes a nature trail, bird hide, and delicious homemade cakes. Gooderstone Water Gardens is open all year, and group visits are welcome by appointment. Well-behaved dogs on leads are also allowed.
Snettisham Park
Snettisham Park is a working Norfolk farm that offers various adventures and activities for visitors. The farm grows wheat for animal feed, malting barley, sugar beet, and grass. Visitors can witness lambs being born, take a 45-minute deer safari to meet the red deer herd, bottle feed lambs, collect fresh farm eggs, and ride ponies. The farm also offers three wonderful trails for walking. Snettisham Park is spread across 329 acres and provides an immersive farm experience.
Kings Lynn Minster
The Minster is a historic building situated in the heart of King’s Lynn. It was founded by the first Bishop of Norwich, Herbert de Losinga, in 1101. The Minster has offered a warm welcome to pilgrims and visitors for over 900 years. Whether you’re looking to get married, have your child baptized, attend a concert, explore the heritage of the building, or simply light a candle, there is plenty to see and do at the Minster. The Minster is located in the historic Saturday Market Place.
True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum
True’s Yard is all that remains of King’s Lynn’s old fishing community, known as the North End. In the past, hundreds of families lived within close proximity to the beautiful medieval chapel of St. Nicholas. The North End had its own boat builders, chandlers, sailmakers, pubs, bakehouses, and school. True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum tells the story of this fishing community and showcases their way of life. Visitors can learn about the hardships they faced, their loyalty to one another, and the dangers of their occupations. The museum offers a glimpse into the past and the rich history of King’s Lynn’s fishing community.
Lynn Museum
Lynn Museum is a delightful museum that tells the story of West Norfolk. Its centerpiece is the Bronze Age timber circle known as ‘Seahenge’. Visitors can marvel at the craftsmanship of the Bronze Age people and study the marks left by their bronze axes. The museum also features the ‘West Norfolk Story’, showcasing the history of the region. Visitors can learn about the thriving medieval port of King’s Lynn and experience what it was like to ride on a Victorian merry-go-round. The museum offers a wide range of fascinating objects and hosts family-friendly events throughout the year.
Holiday park home
For those looking for accommodation in King’s Lynn, Holiday Park Homes offers luxury lodges and static homes for sale or rent. Stay in a comfortable and luxurious setting while exploring all that King’s Lynn and its surrounding attractions have to offer.
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