The East of England is the land of big skies. Its counties – Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire – are home to a world-famous university city, a medieval cathedral city, a network of rivers and lakes and a long coastline of sandy beaches and seaside towns.
Why visit the East of England
For slow travel close to London. You can go punting in Cambridge, hire a boat on the Broads, watch seals and birds on the Norfolk coast and enjoy traditional seaside resorts such as Great Yarmouth and Cromer.
Top places to visit in the East of England
Cambridge
The colleges, King’s College Chapel, the Fitzwilliam Museum and a punt along the river Cam past the famous “Backs”.
Norwich
A beautiful medieval city with a Norman cathedral and castle, cobbled lanes and one of England’s largest open-air markets.
The Norfolk Broads
Around 125 miles of navigable rivers and lakes, with windmills, thatched villages and boats for hire by the day or the week.
Great Yarmouth and the Norfolk coast
Sandy beaches, piers and amusements in Great Yarmouth, seals at Blakeney Point and Horsey, and the historic port of King’s Lynn.
Best time to visit the East of England
May to September is the best time for beaches and boating. The region is one of the driest parts of the UK, but the coast can be windy, so pack a jacket.
Getting around the East of England
London Stansted and Luton airports are in the region. Trains run from London to Cambridge in under an hour and to Norwich in about two hours; local lines continue to Great Yarmouth and King’s Lynn. A car or bike is best for the coast and countryside.
What to eat in the East of England
Cromer crab, Brancaster mussels, Colchester oysters, Suffolk ham, and fish and chips on the seafront.
East of England FAQ
Can I visit Cambridge as a day trip from London?
Yes. Fast trains take under an hour from King’s Cross or Liverpool Street.
Do I need a licence to hire a boat on the Broads?
No. Hire companies give you a short lesson before you set off.
