Sunshine on a Rainy Day

wb_icon_weather_light_rainNorfolk has a reputation for being a fairly dry part of England, due to much of the wet weather arriving from the West of England and the rain petering out by the time it hits East Anglia, making it an ideal location for a staycation.

So far we’ve had great weather in Sheringham; sunny days and cooling sea breezes.

As we think about visitors that are due to visit from September onwards it’s worth remembering that although the wonderful weather does not stop after the school holidays, the chance of rain does increase as we approach the winter months.

Thankfully, the Great British attitude about the weather extends to activities that are suitable for all weathers. Here are some ideas that have worked for us in the past.

5 Rainy Day Activities

Sea Life Centres

Norfolk is home to two sea life centres in Yarmouth and Hunstanton. Please note that the Hunstanton centre is currently closed for refurbishment. It is scheduled to open mid-October 2014, but please check ahead of visiting.

The Yarmouth Sea Life Centre boasts an ocean tunnel, complete with sharks, crocodiles, penguins and rockpools, along with an assortment of tanks containing all manner of sea creatures. There is a restaurant and children’s play area on site too.

Yarmouth is a fair trek from Sheringham; there are plenty of other rainy day activities you can explore nearby including Amazonia World of Reptiles, Time & Tide Museum and RetroSkate.

Splash

splash_01The Splash leisure complex is located just outside Sheringham on the A149 heading towards Weybourne and is a great place to take the kids when it’s not beach weather.

The pool is incredibly family friendly with a 25m pool, a family friendly changing area, a twisty water slide and a wave machine.

Children are allowed to bring in suitable water toys during the “Waterslide ‘n’ Waves” fun sessions.

There is a paddling area at one end of the pool for younger children and seating with tables for those who do not want to go in the pool.

Museums

There are plenty of museums in North Norfolk. There is The Mo, right on our doorstep, with plenty of galleries that tell the story of our town.

The collection includes a rich variety of photographs, fishing and agriculture artefacts and a spectacular fleet of boats.

The Mo has a viewing gallery on the top floor which offers unparalleled views of the sea & of Sheringham’s offshore wind farm.

If you fancy making more of a day of it, then why not visit the Castle Museum in Norwich. You can drive or catch the train from Sheringham to Norwich; the museum is only 15 minutes walk away from the station.

There are plenty of places to eat and drink in Norwich and, whilst you are in this wonderful city, why not take in the Norwich Cathedral or The Forum.

Take in a Show

the_little_theatre_les_miserables_01Sheringham Little Theatre is home to one of the last surviving summer repertory seasons in the country.

The venue also puts on a wide variety of events throughout the year including box office movies, art exhibitions, music, drama and comedy and, if you are visiting Sheringham over Christmas, a pantomime.

Performances take place each week during the day and evening and there is a daytime café and evening bar before performances.

If you fancy a short drive over to Cromer then you can take in Cromer Pier and Pavilion Theatre. Like the Little Theatre, the Pavilion is home to one of last remaining pier variety shows. The theatre also hosts a variety of events through the year.

The Regal Multiplex in Cromer is also worth a visit; catch the latest blockbusters in a traditional cinema.

Take an Umbrella

wb_rainy_dayWhen life throws you rain, splash in the puddles! Pack an umbrella and raincoats; throw wellies on the kids and enjoy the weather.

There are plenty of nooks and crannies that you can shelter in whilst walking around Sheringham, such as the North Norfolk Railway, the Henry Ramey Upcher Muesum or any of the shops on the high street.

Alternatively you can shelter in the woodlands of Pretty Corner or Sheringham Park, or take in any of the privately owned of National Trust properties in the area including Felbrigg Hall or The Sandringham Estate.