Norfolk and Suffolk are home to a fascinating mix of museums and heritage sites, offering visitors a glimpse into history, culture, and industry. From medieval castles to aviation history and hands-on experiences, these attractions provide enriching and entertaining days out for all ages.

Bircham Windmill

Step back in time at Bircham Windmill, one of the last working windmills in Norfolk. Visitors can climb the tower, watch traditional bread-making, and even try their hand at milling flour.

Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse

This immersive museum tells the story of rural life and the harsh realities of the Victorian workhouse. With a working farm, hands-on activities, and interactive exhibits, Gressenhall offers a unique educational experience.

Food Museum

Formerly the Museum of East Anglian Life, the Food Museum in Stowmarket explores the history of farming, food production, and local traditions. Visitors can enjoy cooking demonstrations, historic machinery, and hands-on experiences.

Thursford Steam Museum

A must-visit for steam enthusiasts, this museum houses one of the country’s largest collections of steam engines, vintage fairground rides, and mechanical organs. The annual Thursford Christmas Spectacular is a major highlight.

Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery

Housed in a historic Norman castle, this museum features archaeology, fine art, and natural history exhibits, as well as interactive displays on Norwich’s medieval past. A must-see for history lovers.

Time and Tide Museum (Great Yarmouth)

Set in a converted Victorian herring factory, this museum brings Great Yarmouth’s maritime history to life with immersive displays, interactive exhibits, and engaging stories of the town’s fishing heritage.

Lynn Museum

Discover the history of King’s Lynn and its connections to the famous Seahenge, a prehistoric timber circle. This museum showcases the region’s fascinating past through archaeological finds and local stories.

City of Norwich Aviation Museum

Aviation enthusiasts will love exploring this collection of historic aircraft, including a Vulcan bomber. The museum highlights Norfolk’s important role in aviation history.

Tolhouse Gaol (Great Yarmouth)

One of the oldest prisons in the country, the Tolhouse Gaol takes visitors on a journey through centuries of crime and punishment. Explore eerie cells and hear the stories of prisoners who were once held here.

Museum of Norwich at The Bridewell

Set in a historic merchant’s house, this museum tells the story of Norwich’s industrial past, including its famous textile, shoe, and chocolate industries.

Ancient House Museum (Thetford)

A beautifully preserved Tudor merchant’s house, the Ancient House Museum delves into local history, including Thetford’s connections to Thomas Paine and the region’s Anglo-Saxon past.

Strangers’ Hall (Norwich)

This grand medieval house showcases the history of Norwich’s wealthy merchants and traders, with stunning period rooms, costumes, and hands-on activities for visitors.

Cromer Museum

Located in a row of Victorian fishermen’s cottages, Cromer Museum explores the town’s history and geology, featuring fossil displays, local heritage, and a reconstruction of a Victorian fisherman’s home.

Elizabethan House Museum (Great Yarmouth)

Step into the past at the Elizabethan House, where visitors can explore beautifully restored period rooms, learn about Tudor and Stuart history, and discover links to the English Civil War.