Days Out
This weekend celebrate everything which is great about mum. Treat the busiest woman in the world with a day off from the house, work and just being, well, a mum. Whether she's adventurous or looking to realx, SIMON PARKIN has some tips.
Start: On the wide verge beside the B1105 at Barsham Oaks, 2 miles from Fakenham on the road towards Wells.
Map: Explorer 251 G/R 899335.
Distance: 5.
Some of Norwich's most historic buildings will be giving up their spooky secrets under cover of darkness when families get a rare chance to visit them after hours.
Part of the appeal of city life is the pace of life, but it's still good to decelerate now and again. Whether you've got an hour or several days to spare, SIMON PARKIN offers a selection of satisfying slow ways to enjoy Norwich at your leisure.
Blickling Hall has opens its doors to welcome visitors again for the new season. SIMON PARKIN discovers what lies behind the historic doors and looks at other great National Trust venues in the region to visit.
Lambs - cute, cuddly and coming to a farm near you. As farmers have their hands full dealing with spring newborns, you can see this marvel up close too. SIMON PARKIN previews where to visit.
Start: Salhouse Church (lay-by on B1140).
Map: Explorer OL 40 G/R 303149.
Distance: 6 miles.
Public Transport: There is a regular bus service to Salhouse village and also a regular train service from Norwich.
Wrap up warm and head outside with all the family for a brisk walk among the snowdrops. This time of year gardens are covered in blankets of white snowdrops and they are a beautiful sight. SIMON PARKIN looks at where to see them.
Start: North Beach Car Park, Links Road, Lowestoft.
Map: Explorer OL 40 G/R 551953
Distance: 6 miles.
Public Transport: Lowestoft is on a regular bus and train service from Norwich.
Storytelling, live music and artist-led workshops, the Sainsbury's Centre has a host of activities aimed at families lined up for the coming weeks. SIMON PARKIN previews it.
While the rest of us have been shivering in the sub-zero temperatures, one group of Norfolk residents have at least being feeling at home with the Antarctic temperatures. SIMON PARKIN says a visit to see the penguins at Sea Life Centre is a winter treat.
Start: Norwich Bus Station.
Map: Explorer 237 G/R 230080 (but a Norwich A-Z may be more useful).
Distance: 4½ miles
Public Transport: Any bus route into central Norwich.
Hethersett to Norwich
Start: Henstead Road bus stop in Hethersett, opposite the Church Hall
Map: Explorer 237 G/R 153052
Distance: 8 miles
Public Transport: There are regular buses from Norwich to Hethersett.
From the Norfolk Twister to shove-ha'penny, our county's pubs once hosted a wealth of traditional games. Now they are fewer, but some continue to draw enthusiasts. KEIRON PIM looks at pub games.
Start: St Mary's Church, Attleborough
Map: Explorer 237 G/R 048954
Distance: 6 miles
Public Transport: Regular buses and trains from Norwich
Timetables: 0871 2002233, www.