Great British Heritage
Country Estates, Art & History of Norfolk
Norfolk is home to some of England’s most remarkable country houses, distinguished collections and unexpected cultural treasures. This specially curated tour offers the opportunity to explore royal residences, grand Palladian estates, private houses rarely open to visitors and outstanding museums, all in the company of Nicholas Merchant, whose expert talks and commentary will illuminate the stories behind the places we visit.
From the royal estate of Sandringham to the magnificent state rooms of Houghton Hall, we discover the ambition, taste and influence of the families who helped shape Britain’s political and cultural history. Along the way, we visit the internationally renowned Sainsbury Centre, and the historic collections of Norwich Castle Museum.
A particular highlight is the opportunity to visit Sennowe Park, a private country house not normally open to the public, offering a rare insight into a historic family estate.
what’s included
At A Glance
MEET YOUR EXPERT GUIDE
Nicholas Merchant
Nicholas is a highly respected lecturer in the decorative and fine arts and an accredited lecturer for The Arts Society. His wide knowledge was developed through work with leading auction houses, including Sotheby’s, before he established a specialist book business devoted to the decorative arts.
Nicholas has led Travel Editions tours in the UK and Europe for close to fifteen years. His convivial style, wit and erudition illuminate every visit, whether he is discussing a country house, a collection or a single remarkable object, and his tours are informative, interesting and above all entertaining.
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, beautiful landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions and at tour manager’s discretion.
Day 1: Arrival in Norfolk and Welcome Talk
Arrive independently at the Longridge House Hotel from 15.00 then this evening there will be a welcome reception, dinner with wine and an introductory talk from Nicholas Merchant: ‘Two very different houses: Houghton and Sandringham’.
Day 2: Houghton Hall and Sandringham House
After breakfast, visit Houghton Hall, one of Britain’s finest Palladian country houses. Built for Sir Robert Walpole, Britain’s first Prime Minister, Houghton is renowned for its magnificent state rooms, impressive collections and beautifully restored interiors. The house provides a fascinating glimpse into eighteenth-century taste, wealth and political influence, while its grounds also feature a celebrated collection of contemporary sculpture.
We then continue to Sandringham House, the much-loved private country retreat of the Royal Family since 1862. Set within extensive parkland and gardens, the house contains fine collections of porcelain, furniture, paintings and family memorabilia, reflecting generations of royal ownership. During our visit, discover the history of the estate and the role it continues to play as one of the monarchy’s most important residences.
Return to the hotel for dinner.
Day 3: Sainsbury Centre and Norwich Castle Museum
This morning, travel to Norwich to visit the Sainsbury Centre, one of Britain’s leading museums of world art. Housed within Norman Foster’s striking modern building, the collection ranges from ancient civilisations to twentieth-century masters, bringing together works from across the globe. The centre’s innovative displays encourage visitors to explore connections between different cultures, artistic traditions and periods of history.
We then visit Norwich Castle Museum, one of the city’s most important historic landmarks. Originally built as a Norman royal castle, the castle now houses collections that tell the story of Norfolk through archaeology, fine art and social history. Highlights include important displays relating to the region’s medieval past and its rich artistic heritage.
Return to the hotel in the late afternoon for a talk by Nicholas: ‘Ancient and Modern: The Sainsbury Centre’. Dinner with wine is served this evening.
Day 4: Sennowe Park and Blickling Hall
Our final day begins with a visit to Sennowe Park, a handsome Georgian country house set within an extensive estate near East Dereham. Home to the Keppel family for generations, the house contains important collections of paintings, furniture and decorative arts, accumulated over generations. Not normally open to the public, the estate provides a rare opportunity to visit one of Norfolk’s lesser-known country houses and learn about its history and preservation.
We then continue to Blickling Hall, one of the finest Jacobean houses in England and a property closely associated with the Boleyn family. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, Blickling contains outstanding collections of books, paintings, furniture and textiles.
Return to the hotel at approximately 16.30.
Post-tour nights at the hotel are available at a supplement.
Availability
Choose Your Departure
HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Pheasant Hotel, Holt
Set within landscaped gardens in the peaceful village of Kelling, close to Holt and the North Norfolk coast, The Pheasant is an elegant country house hotel offering stylish en-suite accommodation, a highly regarded restaurant, welcoming lounges and a cosy bar. Guest rooms are thoughtfully furnished and feature complimentary Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, television and modern en-suite bathrooms.
Parking is available at the hotel. The nearest railway station is Sheringham, approximately 8 miles away, with taxi transfers taking around 15 minutes, while Holt town centre is just a short drive from the property.
Hotel Website
our regular tours
Mobility Information
This tour has a moderate fitness rating, reflecting a fuller itinerary with a good balance of visits, walking and time spent exploring on foot.
Some visits may involve cobbled streets, uneven paving, slopes, steps, stairs, limited seating, or walking from the coach drop-off point to the entrance of a site or attraction. The exact demands will vary from day to day, and we highlight specific practical details within the itinerary wherever possible.
You should feel comfortable walking at a steady group pace, standing during visits and enjoying a full day of sightseeing. If you are unsure whether this tour is right for you, please contact us before booking.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
Fresh Adventures for Inquisitive Travellers
Why Choose Travel Editions?
Travel with purpose, passion, and like-minded companions, here’s what sets Travel Editions apart.
Designed for Travellers,
Not Tourists
Founded in 1994 offering unique cultural tours beyond typical high street itineraries.
Personal Service, Real People
Small, friendly team with no automated phone lines. Enjoy personal attention from our team.
Expert Tour Guides, Unique Insights
Industry-leading guides, some since day one, who speak local languages and have detailed knowledge.
Win a 2027 Holiday for Two!
Sign Up To Our
Newsletter For A
Chance To Win
Our newsletter keeps you up to date with the latest news from Travel Editions, including new tours, special departures and travel inspiration. You’ll also receive articles from our expert tour lecturers and tour managers, along with insights into the destinations, history, art and culture that shape our holidays.
"*" indicates required fields
